The Chicagoland area experiences severe weather from late spring through early fall, bringing hail, high winds, heavy rain, and occasional tornadoes. These storms can cause significant damage to your roof, leaving your home vulnerable to leaks, structural issues, and costly repairs.
Preparing before storm season arrives helps you respond quickly when damage occurs and protects your property from further harm. Understanding what to expect and how to work with Naperville roofing professionals after a storm makes the recovery process much smoother.
Schedule a Pre-Season Roof Inspection
One of the best ways to prepare for storm season is to have your roof professionally inspected in early spring. A trained inspector will check for loose or damaged shingles, compromised flashing, deteriorating seals around vents and skylights, and clogged gutters that could cause water backup.
Addressing minor problems before severe weather strikes prevents small issues from escalating into major damage. Many roofers Naperville, ILrecommend annual inspections as part of routine maintenance. Beyond catching problems early, a pre-season inspection creates documentation of your roof’s condition before any storm damage occurs. This documentation can be valuable when filing an insurance claim, as it establishes the baseline state of your roof.
Know the Signs of Storm Damage
After a storm passes through your area, take time to assess your property for visible damage.
- Hail damage often appears as dents or bruising on shingles, excessive granule loss in gutters, or cracked shingles.
- Wind damage may include missing or lifted shingles, exposed underlayment, and damage from fallen debris.
- Water damage inside your home, such as ceiling stains or attic moisture, indicates your roof’s protective barrier has been compromised.
You can conduct an initial assessment from ground level using binoculars. However, some roofing damage isn’t visible from the ground and requires a professional to identify. Never climb onto your roof after a storm, as wet or damaged surfaces can be hazardous.
Document Everything After a Storm
Thorough documentation supports your insurance claim and helps contractors assess damage. After a storm, take photos and videos of any visible damage to your roof, siding, gutters, and landscaping. Capture wide shots and close-ups that reveal specific damage.
Note the date and time of the storm. If you make temporary repairs to prevent further damage, document those as well and keep receipts for materials purchased.
Avoid Storm Chasers and High-Pressure Tactics
After major storms, out-of-town contractors often arrive in affected areas and go door-to-door soliciting business. These “storm chasers” may promise quick, low-price repairs, but they often deliver substandard work and disappear before problems surface.
Warning signs include unsolicited door-to-door visits immediately after a storm, pressure to sign a contract on the spot, bids that seem significantly lower than others, requests for large upfront payments, and inability to provide local references or a physical business address.
Working with established local roofers Naperville, IL, homeowners have trusted for years, provides security that storm chasers cannot match. Local contractors have reputations to protect, will be available to honor warranty claims, and understand the specific building codes and requirements in your area. Take time to verify licensing, insurance, and references, even when you’re eager to get repairs underway.
How to Work With Your Insurance Company
If your roof sustains storm damage, contact your insurance company promptly to report the situation. Most homeowners’ policies cover wind and hail damage, though coverage and deductibles vary by policy.
When filing a claim, provide the documentation you gathered and request a copy of the adjuster’s report after their inspection. Review this report carefully and compare it to any assessments from roofing contractors. If you believe the adjuster’s findings underestimate the damage, you have the right to request a re-inspection or submit supplemental documentation.
Remember that you have the right to choose your own contractor. Your insurance company may provide recommendations, but you are not obligated to use them.
Prepare Now for Peace of Mind Later
Storm damage is stressful enough without the added confusion of finding a trustworthy contractor under pressure. Building a relationship with a reputable local roofing company before emergencies arise allows you to respond quickly and confidently when severe weather strikes. Countryside Roofing, Siding, and Windows Inc. is a trusted name in Naperville roofing and storm damage restoration, helping Chicagoland homeowners protect their homes for over 50 years. As a family-owned company with an A+ BBB rating and deep roots in the community, they provide reliable, responsive service before, during, and after storm season.