Hail Happens: Protecting Your Home Before, During, and After the Storm
Here in Colorado, June marks the official beginning of hail season. These unpredictable storms can leave a path of destruction, damaging roofs, siding, gutters, and more. While preventing hail itself is out of our control, there are steps you can take to prepare your home and minimize damage.
Types of Hail Damage and Their Severity
Hailstones come in various sizes, and the size directly impacts the severity of damage. Here's a breakdown of common hail damage and its intensity:
Minor Damage (Pea-sized hail): Small hailstones might cause cosmetic blemishes like shallow dents on siding or minor dings in gutters. These are often repairable and may not require extensive repairs.
Moderate Damage (Marble-sized to golf ball-sized hail): This size hail can cause more significant dents in siding, chipped paint, and cracks in gutters. It can also leave dents on your roof and potentially damage shingles. Repairs for this level of damage are more involved.
Severe Damage (Baseball-sized hail or larger): Large hailstones pose a serious threat, causing extensive dents, cracked or shattered windows, and even punctured roofs. This level of damage can require significant repairs or even a roof replacement.
Preparing Your Home for Hail Season
While you can't control the weather, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your home:
Roof Inspection: Schedule a pre-season inspection with a reputable roofer. They can identify and address any weak spots or loose shingles that hail could exploit.
Trim Tree Branches: Overhanging branches can become dangerous projectiles during a hailstorm. Trim back any branches that could hit your roof or siding.
Secure Outdoor Furniture and Decorations: Bring in or secure any patio furniture, grills, or decorations that could be damaged by hail.
Invest in Hail Protection Devices: Consider installing hail protection devices like hail netting or hail balls for valuable items like cars or air conditioners.
Identifying Hail Damage After a Storm
After a hailstorm, take a thorough walk around your property to assess the damage. Here's what to look for:
Roof: Look for signs ofhail damage on your roof, such as missing or cracked shingles, exposed underlayment, or dents in metal roofing materials.
Siding: Check for dents, dings, or cracks in your siding. Hail can damage vinyl, aluminum, and wood siding materials.
Gutters: Look for dents, detachments, or leaks in your gutters. Hail can damage gutter systems and disrupt proper water flow.
Windows and Doors: Inspect windows and doors for cracks or chips in the glass. Hail can damage windows and compromise their weatherproofing abilities.
Paint: Look for chipped, cracked, or peeled paint on your home's exterior. Hail can damage the paint finish and expose the underlying material to the elements.
Calling an Experienced Contractor
Many homeowners mistakenly assume hail damage is limited to the roof. However, it's crucial to have a thorough inspection by a qualified and experienced contractor. AtWood Street Builders, we go beyond just roof inspections. We offer comprehensive hail damage assessments that include:
Detailed Roof Inspection: Our certified roofers will inspect your roof for any signs of damage, including missing or damaged shingles, punctures, and impact marks.
Siding Assessment: We willexamine your siding for dents, cracks, and damage that might compromise its weatherproofing abilities.
Gutter Inspection: We will check yourgutters for dents, leaks, and detachments to ensure proper water flow is maintained.
Window and Door Inspection: We will inspectwindows and doors for cracks or chips in the glass that might require repair or replacement.
Exterior Paint Assessment: We will assess any damage to your home's exterior paint and recommend the best course of action for repairs or repainting.
Why Choose Wood Street Builders?
Wood Street Builders is your one-stop shop forhail damagerepairs. We understand the intricacies of hail damage assessment and have the expertise to handle all aspects of repairs, from roof replacement to siding repair and window replacement. Here's what sets us apart:
Experienced and Certified Contractors: Our team comprises highly skilled and experienced contractors who are certified in various roofing and siding materials.
Comprehensive Inspections: We offer comprehensive inspections that go beyond the roof to ensure no hail damage goes unnoticed.
Insurance Claim Assistance: We can help you navigate the insurance claim process and ensure you receive fair compensation for repairs.
High-Quality Repairs: We use only top-of-the-line materials and employ meticulous craftsmanship to ensure your repairs are long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing.
Commitment to Customer Satisfaction: We prioritize clear communication, keeping you informed throughout the repair process.
Don't Wait Until Hail Strikes!
By being proactive and partnering with Wood Street Builders, you can approach hail season with confidence.Contact us todayfor a free pre-season inspection or schedule a comprehensive hail damage assessment after a storm. Remember, early detection and prompt repairs minimize damage and prevent further issues down the road.
Additional Tips:
Document Everything: Take photos and videos of any hail damage you discover. This will be crucial evidence when filing an insurance claim.
Contact Your Insurance Company: File a hail damage claim with your insurance company as soon as possible.
With Wood Street Builders by your side and proper preparation, you can protect your home from hail storms all summer long!