Sometimes, the most extreme winter weather hits when winter is supposed to be over. That was the case in Tarrant County in north Texas this week. A severe storm brought large hail stones that damaged hundreds of roofs, vehicles, and other property in the area.
Many homeowners might be surprised to learn that hail damage is responsible for about half of all auto and homeowner insurance claims annually. Here are some things you’ll want to know about hail damage and how to go about getting it fixed.
When can hail damage a roof?
Most hail storms are quite harmless because the little pellets of ice are far too small to cause any damage to property. Golf-ball sized hail is usually the threshold where you start to see roof damage after a storm. But size isn’t the only factor that determines the amount of damage. Hail stones that are smooth will typically cause less damage than stones that have a jagged shape. If strong winds corresponded with the hail storm, there’s a greater chance for roof damage. The length of the storm, the type of roof you have, and how new the roof is will also determine the extent of the damage.
How to get it fixed
Before calling a roofer, you’ll need to call up your insurance company. They’ll have an insurance adjuster inspect the damage first. Once you get the go ahead you can get a few estimates and choose the contractor that you have the most confidence in to do the job right.
After a major storm, the local contractors will have a lot on their plates. Don’t settle for an out-of-state roofer just passing through in the wake of the storm. A fly-by-night roofer can’t honor a warranty should a problem arise down the road. A local roofer should at least be able to place a tarp over the damaged areas until they can come and do a more permanent fix.
Home improvement news brought to you by bartonroof.com
Source: star-telegram.com/news/local/community/fort-worth/article66675912.html