Overview
Hail can bruise or crack shingles. Damage isn't always visible from the ground.
Document dates and photos for claims.
How it typically works
- Inspection. Check for damage.
- Materials are delivered. Expect a delivery and a dumpster or trailer in the driveway.
- A final walk-through follows. Check flashing, vents and cleanup before you sign off.
- Describe the roof and the problem. Age, material and where you see leaks or damage help a lot.
- Expect a roof inspection. Roofers check shingles, flashing, vents and decking.
- Permits are common for replacements. Many cities require a permit to re-roof.
What affects the outcome
- Storm chasers. Verify local presence.
- Hail is a big factor in Colorado. Hail damage can be hard to see from the ground.
- Deadlines. Claims have time limits.
- Insurance claims take time. Document damage with photos and dates before repairs.
- Ventilation affects roof life. Poor attic ventilation can shorten shingle life.
- Weather affects scheduling. Wind, rain and cold can push installation dates.
- Deductibles. Some policies have wind/hail deductibles.
Before you send an inquiry
- The best way and time to reach you.
- Your timeline, and whether anything is urgent.
- Photos, if you have them; they help a provider understand the job faster.
- Rough measurements or quantities, if they matter for the job.
- A short description of the job and where it is on the property.
When to keep looking
- Suggesting you skip a required permit to save money.
- Requests for large cash deposits before any work is scheduled.
- Door-to-door offers right after a storm with no local track record.
- Pressure to sign or pay the same day.
- No local address or references you can check.
Questions to ask a provider
- Are you licensed and insured where required?
- Will you pull the permit for a replacement?
- What does the warranty cover, and is it from you or the manufacturer?
- Will you replace damaged decking, and how is it priced?
- How will you protect landscaping and clean up nails?
- Can you provide a written, itemized estimate?
Quick answers
- Will insurance pay for a new roof?
- It depends on your policy and the cause of damage. Talk to your insurer before signing a contract.
- How do I know if I have hail damage?
- A roofer can inspect; dents on gutters and vents can be clues.
- Should I repair or replace my roof?
- It depends on age, damage extent and leaks. A roofer can help weigh repair costs against replacement.
Related topics
- Roof Inspections: What inspections cover.
- Roof Repair: Fixing leaks and damaged shingles.
- Gutters & Downspouts: Gutter installation and repair.
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