How to Handle Roof Repairs After Hail or Wind Damage

By Ark Design Roofing
on
Technician inspecting roof after hail and wind damage

When a storm barrels through, your roof stands as your first line of defense. But hailstones and howling winds can leave it battered, bruised, and leaking. It’s stressful. It feels urgent—and it is. At Ark Design Roofing, we know your home is more than a structure; it’s your safe haven. Let’s walk through how to respond swiftly, calmly, and wisely when the weather turns against you.

Assessing Hail and Wind Damage 🧐

Storm aftermath is often messy and overwhelming. Before you grab a ladder or call for help, take a breath. Start with a safe, ground-level inspection. Look for:

  • Missing or curled shingles
  • Dents in metal roofing or gutters
  • Chipped, broken, or loose tiles
  • Exposed roof decking or underlayment
  • Granules collecting in gutters or at downspouts
  • Damaged skylights, vents, or flashing

Binoculars are your friend here. If you see daylight peeking through the attic, water stains on ceilings, or damp insulation, your roof needs attention—fast.

For a full, safe inspection, refer to the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) guidelines.

Safety After a Storm

Your roof can be slippery, unstable, or hiding dangerous hazards like exposed nails or loose tiles. Stay off the roof until a professional arrives. If you must go outside:

  • Watch for downed power lines
  • Avoid walking on wet or icy surfaces
  • Steer clear of visibly sagging roof sections

Keep children and pets inside until the area is secure. Sometimes what looks stable is only held together by luck.

Emergency Repairs and Temporary Fixes ⚡

Sometimes water is pouring in, and you can’t wait for help. Here’s what you can do:

  • Place buckets or plastic sheeting under leaks to catch water
  • Use a tarp to cover large holes—if it’s safe to do so from the ground or a secure ladder
  • Move furniture and valuables away from wet areas

Don’t risk your safety for a quick fix. Remember, temporary repairs are just that—temporary. The real solution comes from proper repair.

If you need emergency help, our emergency services are always ready for situations just like this.

Working with Insurance

Document everything. Snap photos of all damage—inside and out. Save receipts for emergency purchases (tarps, buckets, dehumidifiers). Write down the date and time of the storm. This information is gold for your insurance claim.

Call your insurance provider as soon as possible. Most companies will send an adjuster to assess the damage. Having a professional roofer from Ark Design Roofing on-site during this visit can help ensure nothing is missed—especially those hard-to-spot issues like hidden leaks or flashing damage.

Long-Term Repair Solutions 🏡

Once the immediate crisis is managed, it’s time for lasting repairs. Here’s how our team tackles storm damage restoration:

  • Full inspection, including attic and decking
  • Detailed repair plan and clear communication
  • Matching materials to your existing roof (shingle, tile, metal, flat roof, etc.)
  • Addressing gutters, downspouts, flashing, and skylights as needed
  • Preventative upgrades, like improved ventilation or eco-friendly options

All work follows local building codes and national safety standards (OSHA, NRCA). We never cut corners. Your home deserves solid, lasting craftsmanship.

Quick Safety Checklist

  • Stay indoors until the storm passes
  • Don’t use electrical appliances near wet areas
  • Avoid flooded sections or standing water
  • If you smell gas, leave and call the utility company immediately

DIY vs. Call a Pro

Some repairs look simple. But roofing is more like chess than checkers—one wrong move can cost you dearly. Small leaks, if missed, can lead to mold, structural rot, and costly future repairs.

Call a professional if:

  • The damage is extensive or unclear
  • You see sagging or bowing
  • Water is entering your home
  • There’s any sign of electrical risk

For minor gutter repair near you, sometimes a quick cleaning or reattachment is safe. When in doubt, let the pros handle it.

What Pros Do On Arrival

Our team arrives ready. First, we’ll secure the site—checking for hidden hazards. Then comes a thorough inspection, inside and out. We document everything, share our findings, and walk you through next steps. No surprises.

Prevention & Maintenance for the Future 🌱

The best storm damage is the one that never happens. Consider:

  • Annual inspections, especially after severe weather
  • Regular gutter cleaning and downspout repair
  • Upgrading to impact-resistant shingles or metal roofing
  • Installing proper ventilation & insulation

These steps can help your roof shed water, resist wind, and extend its life.

Costs & Time Factors

Every repair is different. Small shingle fixes may take a few hours. Full roof replacement or structural repairs need more time. Insurance claims add steps, but a clear paper trail speeds things up.

Factors that affect cost and timing:

  • Roof size and pitch
  • Material type (asphalt, tile, metal, flat)
  • Extent of damage
  • Weather conditions
  • Availability of materials

We always provide a straightforward estimate before work begins. No hidden fees.

When It’s an Emergency

If water is pouring in, if ceilings are sagging, or if a branch has punched through the roof—call for emergency help immediately. Time is critical to prevent further damage.

Our storm damage restoration service is built for these moments.

FAQ

Q: How soon after a storm should I inspect my roof?
A: As soon as it’s safe. Early detection prevents bigger problems.

Q: Can I delay repairs until next season?
A: Delaying can lead to rot, mold, and higher repair costs. Address issues promptly.

Q: Will insurance cover all repairs?
A: Coverage depends on your policy and the nature of the damage. Documentation helps.

Seasonal Considerations

Spring and summer bring hail and wind. Fall means heavy rains and clogged gutters. Winter’s ice dams can sneak water under shingles. Schedule routine inspections with the season’s changes. It’s the best way to spot trouble early.

Common Mistakes to Avoid 🚫

  • Ignoring small leaks
  • Attempting dangerous DIY fixes
  • Delaying professional help
  • Forgetting to document damage
  • Overlooking gutters and downspouts

Signs of Trouble

  • Stains on ceilings or walls
  • Peeling paint near rooflines
  • Dripping sounds in the attic
  • Moldy smells
  • Warped or sagging rooflines

If you spot these, your roof is quietly calling for help.

Timeline & Disruption

We know repairs disrupt daily life. Our team works efficiently, keeps you informed, and minimizes mess. Most jobs are completed within days, not weeks.

Materials & Equipment

Ark Design Roofing uses only quality, code-approved materials. From shingles to metal panels, skylights to sealants, every product is chosen for durability and fit.

Local Help You Can Rely On

Whether you need fast leak repair or a full roof replacement, our team is here. We handle everything from inspections to preventative maintenance. If you’re looking for trusted help in your area, we also serve this local community with the same care and attention.


Storms don’t wait. Neither should you. Protect your home and peace of mind by acting fast—and acting smart.

Call Ark Design Roofing now — or reach us anytime at  877-269-1187 .

Roof damage? Ark Design responds quickly—trusted, skilled help. 877-269-1187