Hailstorms can strike without warning, and even small hail can cause major damage to your roof. If you’re a homeowner in Northwest Arkansas, understanding what to do after a hailstorm is essential for protecting your home and avoiding costly repairs down the road. In this post, we’ll walk you through the steps you should take if you suspect hail damage and why acting quickly is so important.
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Inspect Your Property Safely
After a storm passes, your first instinct might be to grab a ladder and climb up to see if your roof is damaged. Don’t. Instead, walk around your property and look for signs of hail damage from the ground. Check for:
- Dented gutters, downspouts, or metal trim
- Missing or curled shingles
- Shingle granules collecting in your gutters or on the ground
- Cracks or splits in siding or fascia
- Hail marks or bruising on window screens and vents
These clues often indicate that your roof has taken a hit, even if the damage isn’t immediately visible.
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Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
The next step is to schedule a free, no-obligation roof inspection from a reputable roofing contractor like FES Roofing. Our experienced team knows how to spot hidden damage that can lead to leaks and structural problems if not addressed. We’ll check for:
- Bruised, cracked, or broken shingles
- Compromised flashing and sealants
- Soft spots where water may be collecting
- Structural issues caused by wind uplift
A professional inspection provides a clear picture of the damage and a recommendation for the best course of action.
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Document the Damage
If damage is found, documentation is key. At FES Roofing, we take detailed photos and notes during your inspection to make the insurance process easier. You can also photograph any visible damage on your own—this could help support your claim.
Having a well-documented inspection report from a qualified roofer adds credibility and helps ensure your claim is taken seriously by the insurance adjuster.
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File an Insurance Claim
If your roof has sustained hail damage, it’s important to contact your homeowner’s insurance company right away. Insurance claims are often time-sensitive, and waiting too long could impact your eligibility for coverage.
Filing a claim might feel overwhelming, but FES Roofing can assist you throughout the process. We’ll:
- Provide a detailed inspection report
- Meet with your insurance adjuster
- Help answer any questions they may have
- Ensure nothing is overlooked in the damage assessment
We act as your advocate to help you get the coverage you deserve.
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Choose the Right Contractor for Repairs or Replacement
Once your claim is approved, it’s time to schedule repairs or replacement. Be sure to choose a licensed, insured, and experienced roofing contractor to do the work. Cheap, rushed jobs often lead to more problems later.
At FES Roofing, we use high-quality materials and deliver expert craftsmanship. Whether your roof needs minor repairs or a full replacement, we’ll make sure the job is done right and up to code.
Why Timing Matters
Hail damage may not cause immediate leaks, but over time it can break down your shingles and compromise your roof’s ability to protect your home. The sooner you take action, the better your chances of avoiding mold, water damage, and more expensive repairs.
Acting quickly also improves your chances of getting insurance coverage, since many policies have deadlines for reporting storm damage.
How FES Roofing Can Help
We understand how stressful storm damage can be. That’s why we make the process as simple as possible for you. When you choose FES Roofing, you get:
- Free, thorough inspections
- Honest, professional advice
- Help with the entire insurance claim process
- Quality repairs or replacement from a trusted local team
We’ve built our reputation in Springdale and across Northwest Arkansas by delivering dependable service and treating every home as if it were our own.
Final Thoughts
If your home has recently experienced a hailstorm, don’t wait until you see water stains on your ceiling. By taking the right steps early—inspection, documentation, and working with an experienced roofing team—you can protect your home and avoid unnecessary costs.
Call FES Roofing today to schedule your free hail damage inspection. Let us help you restore peace of mind and keep your home protected.