When one of Alberta’s frequent hailstorms rips through the province, the impact can be alarming and costly. If you’re in Calgary, it’s important to understand the steps to take after a hailstorm damages your roof, so that you can address it quickly and properly.
At No Payne Roofing, we specialize in residential roof repair and roof inspections in Calgary, so we understand what it takes to keep your home safe and secure against our unique climate.
Steps to Take After a Hailstorm Damages Your Roof
1. Check for Obvious Signs of Damage
After a hailstorm, once it’s safe, take a careful look at your roof and your property. Some signs to watch out for include:
- Dents, bruises, or cracks in asphalt or metal roofing
- Missing or loose shingles
- Granule loss in shingles (you might see granules in your gutters)
- Punctures or holes
- Damage to gutters, vents, flashing, or skylights
Don’t climb up if you’re unsure about safety—slipping or stepping on weakened areas can cause injury, or even further damage to the roof.
2. Document Everything with this Checklist
Photos and videos are your most valuable assets when making an insurance claim. Before touching anything, ensure you have the following:
- Wide-Angle Shots: Capture the entire roofline and surrounding property to show the scale of the storm.
- Close-Up Detail: Take clear photos of specific dents or missing shingles.
- Ground-Level Evidence: Document hail size (use a coin for scale) and damage to patio furniture, fences, or vehicles.
- Time & Date Stamps: Ensure your digital photos have metadata or timestamps enabled to prove the date of the loss.
- Save Debris: If shingles have blown off, keep them in a safe place to show the adjuster the type of failure that occurred.
3. Book a Professional Roof Inspection
Even if the damage appears minor, it’s best to have a Calgary roofing professional perform a detailed roof inspection. A qualified inspector can spot hidden issues, such as compromised underlayment or micro-fissures, that could lead to leaks in the coming winter.
4. Contact Your Insurance Provider Immediately! Timing Matters
In recent years, insurance companies have become stricter than ever regarding prompt notice. Most policies require you to report an insurance claim within a specific window (often 30 to 90 days) after a hailstorm damages your roof.
- Report Promptly: Even if you aren’t sure of the extent of the damage, start the file with your insurer.
- Review Your Policy: Check if you have Actual Cash Value or Replacement Cost coverage, as this significantly impacts your payout.
- Actual Cash Value insurance pays the current market value of your roof at the time of the damage.
- Replacement Cost coverage pays the full value to replace the roof.
5. Get Multiple Roof Repair Quotes from Calgary Roofers
Once you have your roof inspection report, get estimates from reputable roofing contractors. When comparing quotes, don’t just look at the bottom line; look for:
- Scope of Work: Does the quote include high-quality roof replacement materials or just a patch job?
- Impact Resistance: Ask for quotes on Class 4 impact-resistant shingles, which may lower your future insurance premiums.
- Local Reputation: Ensure the roof is with an experienced Calgary business, not a storm chaser unfamiliar with our climate and challenges.
- Detailed Breakdowns: A professional quote should clearly list labour, materials, disposal fees, and permit costs.
With over a decade of experience dealing with hail damage and residential roof repairs in Calgary, No Payne Roofing is exceptionally qualified to provide you with a transparent and detailed quote, along with services that will secure your roof for years to come.
6. Proceed With Your Roof Repairs
Delaying repairs can lead to further issues, including leaks, rot, mould, or even structural damage. Once your insurance claim and estimates are in place:
- Authorize the repair work
- Make sure the materials match what was agreed upon
- Confirm the contractor will seal, cover, or replace damaged flashing, vents, etc.
7. After-Repair Checks & Preventive Measures
After your roof repair is completed:
- Inspect the Work: Ensure proper seal and alignment, and that no debris is left in the gutters.
- Warranty Documentation: Keep your workmanship and material warranties in a safe digital folder.
- Future-Proofing: Consider upgrading to No Payne’s class-4 hail-resistant shingles if your area sees frequent storms.
Regular maintenance and seasonal roof inspections can help prevent future damage to your Calgary home.
Acting Quickly Matters
If a hailstorm damages your roof and you wait too long, you may face:
- Water infiltration and rot
- Mould growth, which can lead to poor indoor air quality
- Increased insurance costs or denied claims if your policy requires timely action
- Reduced curb appeal or resale value
Getting a full inspection and necessary repairs quickly helps protect your investment and ensures your home stays safe and dry.
No Payne Roofing: Your Hailstorm Specialist
At No Payne Roofing, we understand the challenges Calgary homeowners face every hail season. That’s why we provide thorough roof repairs and roof inspections in Calgary and the surrounding areas. Our team uses only high-quality, impact-resistant materials to ensure your roof stands up to Alberta’s toughest weather.
If you suspect a hailstorm has damaged your roof, don’t put it off. Contact No Payne Roofing today for a professional inspection, a clear, detailed quote, and expert repairs that keep your home safe and secure.
