(440) 307-2060
Roof Damage Following a Hailstorm? Here’s What to Do Next
Hailstorms in Northeast Ohio aren’t just a weather nuisance—they’re a serious threat to your home or business’s roof. Whether you’re in Youngstown, Willoughby, Cleveland, or Chagrin Falls, a sudden downpour of hail can leave behind more than just dents—it can lead to long-term structural problems, hidden leaks, and expensive repairs.
So, what should you do if your property gets hit? This comprehensive guide will walk you through:
- Identifying signs of hail damage
- Filing an insurance claim properly
- Choosing the right contractor
- Preventing future damage
Let’s break down each step so you can protect your investment.
The Immediate Aftermath: Inspect Your Property Safely
After a storm, safety comes first. Once the hail passes, take a cautious walk around your property and look for visible damage. Avoid climbing on the roof—hail can cause slick and unstable surfaces.
Signs of Hail Damage You Can Spot from the Ground:
- Dents or bruises on gutters, downspouts, or siding
- Shingle granules in downspouts or gutters
- Cracked windows, skylights, or roof vents
- Soft or spongy spots in your ceiling (water damage)
If you suspect roof damage, call in a licensed roofing contractor like S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC for a professional inspection.
Why Hail Damage Is Dangerous (Even When It Looks Minor)
Hail doesn’t have to break through the roof to cause major issues. Even small, quarter-sized hailstones can:
- Loosen or remove shingle granules, exposing the underlayment
- Crack or dent flashing, inviting water intrusion
- Create weak spots where leaks develop over time
- Void warranties, especially if repairs are delayed
Left unaddressed, this damage can escalate during Ohio’s freeze-thaw cycles, turning a small issue into a full-blown leak.
How to File an Insurance Claim for Hail Damage
Your homeowners or commercial property insurance policy likely covers hail damage—but only if it’s reported promptly.
Follow These Steps:
- Document the Damage
- Take clear photos and videos from the ground
- Photograph any water damage or leaks inside
- Save weather reports showing hail size in your area
- Schedule a Professional Inspection
- S&K Construction and Remodeling offers free hail damage inspections
- We’ll provide detailed reports and images you can submit to your insurance
- File a Claim Quickly
- Contact your insurer ASAP
- Share the contractor’s report
- Ask about the claims process, timelines, and approved contractors
- Meet the Adjuster with Your Contractor
- Having a roofer on-site ensures no damage is overlooked
- Your contractor can advocate for proper repairs or full replacement
Choosing the Right Contractor After a Hailstorm
Avoid storm chasers! After major hail events, fly-by-night contractors often swarm areas offering quick, cheap fixes—and then disappear. Instead, choose a local expert like S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, a trusted name in Northeast Ohio roofing.
What to Look For:
- Licensed and insured
- Owens Corning Preferred Contractor
- Strong local reputation and reviews
- Experience with insurance claim assistance
- Quality materials and warranties
Repair vs. Replacement: What’s Best After Hail?
Not all hail damage means you need a new roof. Minor damage might just need patching. But if you see:
- Bald spots where shingles have lost granules
- Widespread bruising
- Multiple lifted or missing shingles
- Leaks inside your home or attic
…it’s often more cost-effective to replace the roof entirely. Your insurance may cover the bulk of the cost—especially if the damage is well-documented.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
Each policy is different, but in Ohio, you typically have one year from the date of loss to file a claim. Still, don’t wait. The longer you delay, the more likely your claim will be questioned—or denied.
What If the Damage Isn’t Obvious?
Hail damage can be stealthy. You may not notice problems until weeks or months later—when leaks show up in ceilings or your energy bills spike due to compromised insulation. That’s why we recommend a post-storm inspection, even if your roof looks fine from the ground.
Preventing Future Hail Damage
While you can’t stop a storm, you can prepare your roof to handle the impact better. Consider:
Impact-Resistant Shingles
Products rated Class 4 can better withstand hail and may even qualify for insurance discounts.
Routine Maintenance
A well-maintained roof is more resilient. Fixing loose shingles or flashing now can prevent major damage later.
Gutter and Drainage Upgrades
Hail often comes with heavy rain. Clear, properly sloped gutters and downspouts help move water away before it penetrates weak spots.
Partner With S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC
As a locally trusted and insured contractor based in Youngstown, S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC serves all of Northeast Ohio, including Beachwood, Lyndhurst, Madison, and Concord. We specialize in:
- Residential and commercial roof replacement
- Hail and storm damage restoration
- Insurance claim support
- Preventive roof maintenance programs
We offer:
- Zero-down roof financing
- Same-as-cash options for 12 months
- Fast approval—often in 10 minutes
- Affordable payments around $200/month for long-term plans
Don’t Delay—Get a Hail Damage Inspection Today
Hailstorms move fast. So should you. If your roof’s been hit, don’t wait for leaks to appear. Call S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC for a free, honest inspection and full storm damage report.
Protect your roof. Protect your investment. Protect your peace of mind.
Contact Us
📞 (Your Phone Number)
💼 Free Hail Damage Inspections | Insurance Claim Experts | Licensed & Insured
📍 Based in Youngstown, Serving All of Northeast Ohio
Let me know if you’d like a version of this optimized for a Google Business Profile post, Facebook ad, or email newsletter!