What to Do After Hail Damage in Hood County

Hood County sees its share of severe weather — and hailstorms are among the most damaging events a roof can face. Hail as small as one inch in diameter can crack shingles, dent metal flashing, and compromise the granule coating that protects your roof from UV damage. The problem is that hail damage is not always obvious from the ground. Here's what to do immediately after a storm.

Step 1: Stay Safe — Don't Get on the Roof Yourself

After a hailstorm, your first instinct might be to climb up and take a look. Don't. Hail-damaged shingles are slippery, and the structural integrity of the roof may be compromised. Instead, do a quick walk around the exterior of your home from the ground. Look for obvious signs like dented gutters, damaged window screens, or dents in your AC unit — these are reliable indicators that your roof took a hit too.

Step 2: Document Everything Before Cleanup

Before you touch anything, take photos and video of all visible damage — gutters, siding, windows, and any debris on the ground. This documentation is critical for your insurance claim. Note the date and time of the storm. If you have a weather app or local news report confirming the storm, screenshot it. The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim.

Step 3: Call a Local Roofing Contractor — Not a Storm Chaser

After a major hailstorm, out-of-town "storm chaser" contractors flood the area offering quick inspections and too-good-to-be-true deals. Many of these companies disappear after collecting payment, leaving homeowners with substandard repairs and voided warranties. Always use a licensed, local contractor who will be around to stand behind their work. Bates Roofing is based in Granbury — we're your neighbors, and we're here for the long haul.

Step 4: Get a Professional Inspection and Damage Report

A qualified roofing contractor will inspect your roof and provide a detailed written report documenting all damage. At Bates Roofing, we use drone technology to safely assess every part of your roof and provide photographic evidence of each damage point. This report is exactly what your insurance adjuster needs to process your claim efficiently.

Step 5: File Your Insurance Claim Promptly

Most homeowners' insurance policies require you to file a claim within a specific timeframe after a storm — often 12 months, but sometimes less. Don't wait. Contact your insurance company to open a claim as soon as you have your damage report. We work directly with insurance adjusters and can be present during the adjuster's inspection to ensure nothing is missed.

Step 6: Protect Your Home from Further Damage

If your roof has visible holes or missing shingles, temporary protection is important to prevent water intrusion before permanent repairs can be made. We can install emergency tarping to protect your home while the insurance process moves forward. Keep receipts for any emergency protective measures — these costs are typically reimbursable under your policy.

Bates Roofing: Your Granbury Storm Damage Experts

We've helped dozens of Hood County homeowners navigate the insurance claim process after hail and wind damage. We know what adjusters look for, we document damage thoroughly, and we advocate for our customers throughout the process. Call us at (817) 776-7428 for a free storm damage inspection — we'll come out quickly and give you a clear picture of what your roof needs.