What to Do After a Hail Storm in Denver, Colorado: A Right Way Roofing Guide
Denver's unpredictable weather can bring sunshine one minute and hailstones the next. While a hailstorm might seem like a brief inconvenience, it can leave behind a surprising amount of damage to your property.
Here at Right Way Roofing, we understand the stress a hailstorm can cause. That's why we've created this comprehensive guide to help Denver residents navigate the aftermath of a hailstorm and get their homes back in top shape.
Safety First
Before diving into repairs, prioritize safety.
- Wait for the storm to pass completely. Venture outside only once it's safe.
- Beware of power lines. Downed power lines pose a serious threat. If you see any, stay clear and report them to the authorities immediately.
- Watch for falling debris. Hail can damage trees and structures, creating a risk of falling branches or other debris. Be cautious when walking around your property.
Assess the Damage
Once the storm has cleared, it's time to assess the damage. Start with a visual inspection. Look for signs of damage on your roof, siding, gutters, windows, and car.
- Roof: Check for missing or cracked shingles, dents in metal roofs, or exposed underlayment. Look for leaks in your attic or interior ceilings.
- Siding: Dents, cracks, and holes are all signs of hail damage on siding.
- Gutters: Hail can clog gutters and downspouts, leading to water pooling and potential roof leaks.
- Windows: Cracked or broken windows require immediate attention to prevent water damage and security risks.
- Car: Dents and dings are the most common signs of hail damage on vehicles.
Document the Damage
Thorough documentation is crucial when filing an insurance claim.
- Take photos and videos: Capture close-up shots of all hail damage, including the overall condition of your roof and any damaged belongings.
- Date and timestamp: Ensure your photos and videos are properly dated and timestamped to establish the timeline of the damage.
- List details: Create a detailed list of the damaged items, including their estimated value and any receipts you have.
Contact Your Insurance Company
- Review your policy. Familiarize yourself with your homeowner's or renter's insurance policy to understand your coverage for hail damage.
- File a claim promptly. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the hailstorm to initiate the claims process.
- Be prepared to answer questions. The insurance company will likely ask about the nature and extent of the damage, when it occurred, and your documentation.
Choose a Reputable Roofing Contractor
- Don't rush into repairs. After a major hailstorm, there might be a surge of roofing contractors offering their services. Take your time to choose a reputable and experienced company like Right Way Roofing.
- Get multiple estimates. Compare estimates from several qualified roofers to ensure you're getting a fair price.
- Check credentials and licenses. Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured, and ask to see proof of both.
- Read online reviews. Research the contractor's reputation online to see what past customers have to say about their experience.
- Beware of storm chasers. These out-of-town contractors often use aggressive tactics and misleading information. Look for a company with a local presence and a proven track record.
Working with Your Chosen Roofer
- Schedule a thorough inspection. A qualified roofer will conduct a detailed inspection of your roof to assess the full extent of the damage.
- Get a clear and written estimate. The estimate should outline the scope of work, materials to be used, warranties offered, and the total cost.
- Ask questions. Don't hesitate to ask questions and clarify any details you're unsure about.
- Don't feel pressured to sign immediately. Take your time to review the estimate and compare it with others before making a decision.
The Right Way Roofing Difference
At Right Way Roofing, we understand the unique challenges Denver homeowners face after a hailstorm. With years of experience and a commitment to quality, we offer:
- Free hail damage inspections by experienced and certified roofers.
- Assistance with insurance claims to help you navigate the process and get the coverage you deserve.
- High-quality repairs using top-of-the-line materials and industry best practices.
- Competitive pricing and transparent estimates so you know exactly what to expect.
- Exceptional customer service throughout the entire repair process.
To speak with our storm damage roof repair experts, call Right Way Roofing today at (303) 800-6863. You can also contact us online!