What Causes a Hailstorm?

Hailstorms form during strong thunderstorms when updrafts carry raindrops high into extremely cold areas of the atmosphere. There, the droplets freeze and are coated by layers of supercooled water as they're pushed up and down by the storm's winds. The stronger the updraft, the larger the hailstones can grow before gravity finally pulls them to the ground. These falling chunks of ice, sometimes as small as peas or as large as baseballs can cause serious damage to roofs, siding, vehicles, and anything left exposed.

Why You Should Get a Hail Damage Inspection from a Reputable Contractor

Hailstorms can do a number on your roof and most homeowners don’t even realize it until it’s too late. The damage often isn’t visible from the ground, and even small impacts can lead to big problems down the road. Whether your area just got hit or it’s been a while since your last inspection, getting your roof checked by a reputable contractor could save you thousands and protect your biggest investment: YOUR HOME.

How does hail damage a roof?

Hail impacts bruise the fiberglass matting of shingles, knock off granules and even puncture through roofing materials. Over time, this leads to leaks, wood rot, mold, and structural issues. Damage isn’t always obvious from the ground especially with architectural shingles which is why trained eyes and proper documentation matter.

Can I inspect the roof myself?

It’s not recommended. Roofing is dangerous, and hail damage is easy to miss without experience. What looks like a harmless mark to you might be enough for insurance to approve a full replacement IF it’s properly documented by a pro. A licensed roofing contractor knows what to look for and how to present it clearly.

Will insurance cover the repairs?

Most homeowner and commercial policies do cover hail damage, but filing a claim without proof or an advocate on your side can result in a denial or partial approval. A reputable contractor can guide you through the process, meet with the adjuster, and provide the documentation needed to support your claim.

What makes a contractor "reputable"?

A trustworthy contractor is licensed, insured, bonded, local, and experienced in storm restoration. They won’t pressure you, and they’ll walk you through everything with full transparency. Be wary of out of town “storm chasers” who show up right after a storm, offer too-good-to-be-true deals, and disappear when problems arise.

What’s the risk in waiting?

Small damage turns into major problems over time. The longer you wait, the more you risk water leaks, denied insurance claims, and expensive out-of-pocket repairs. Insurance companies also have strict deadlines for filing hail-related claims. Waiting could cost you the opportunity to be covered at all.

What happens during a hail damage inspection?

A good contractor will inspect the entire exterior, not just the roof, including gutters, siding, windows, and vents. They'll document everything with photos and notes, check for any code violations, and provide you with a detailed report. From there, you can decide if a claim is worth filing.

Need Help? We’ve Got You Covered.

If your home was hit by a recent storm, or if you're just unsure whether your roof has hidden damage, schedule a no-obligation inspection with a trusted contractor in your area. At Lucky Duck Roofing, we specialize in identifying hail damage, guiding homeowners through the insurance process, and making sure your roof is restored properly.

CALL US TODAY 708-500-0309