Protecting Your Property When Weather Hits Hard
Boise and the Treasure Valley are no strangers to severe weather. From intense thunderstorms with high winds and hail to heavy winter snow, your roof is the first line of defense for your home or business. When a storm passes, the damage left behind isn’t always obvious from the ground. Identifying this damage quickly and hiring a reliable Boise roofing contractor is crucial to protecting your investment and preventing minor issues from becoming major problems. This guide will walk you through identifying storm damage, what steps to take, and how to select the right local team for your repair or replacement needs.
Identifying Common Signs of Roof Storm Damage
After a storm, it’s important to assess your property safely. While you should never get on a potentially compromised roof, you can spot many warning signs from the ground.
Wind Damage
High winds can lift, curl, or completely remove shingles, leaving the underlayment exposed. Look for missing shingles in your yard or visible patches on your roof. Flashing around chimneys and vents can also be bent or torn away.
Hail Damage
Hail can leave dents or pockmarks on shingles, gutters, and roof vents. You might also notice a loss of granules—the sandpaper-like material on asphalt shingles—which collect in your downspouts. This granule loss shortens the lifespan of your roof.
Water Intrusion & Debris
Inside your home, check the attic and ceilings for water stains or active leaks, a clear sign your roof’s integrity has been compromised. Outside, large branches or other debris on the roof can cause structural damage and should be addressed by a professional.
If you suspect any wind and hail damage, it’s essential to call for a professional inspection.
What to Do After the Storm: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prioritize Safety
Never climb onto a wet or potentially damaged roof. The structure could be unstable. Conduct your initial inspection from the ground with binoculars if necessary.
2. Document Everything
Take clear photos and videos of all visible damage from multiple angles. Note the date and time of the storm. This documentation is crucial when you file your roof insurance claim.
3. Call a Professional for an Inspection
Contact a trusted, local roofing contractor like Team Construction. We can perform a thorough and safe inspection to assess the full extent of the damage—including issues you can’t see from the ground—and provide a detailed report and estimate for the necessary roof repair.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company
With a professional assessment in hand, you can confidently report the damage to your insurance provider. An experienced contractor can often help you navigate the claims process, ensuring all damage is properly documented and accounted for. While a roofer can advocate for you, remember that only the insurance adjuster can officially approve your claim.
Choosing the Right Boise Roofing Contractor
Your choice of contractor is critical. Look for a company with a strong local presence and a reputation for quality.
| What to Look For | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Licensed & Insured | Ensures the contractor meets state requirements and protects you from liability for accidents on your property. |
| Local Experience | A local company understands Boise’s building codes and climate challenges, from heavy snow loads to high winds. They have an established reputation in communities like Meridian and Eagle. |
| Strong Reviews & References | Check online reviews and ask for references from recent projects. This provides insight into their workmanship and customer service. |
| Direct Insurance Claim Assistance | A contractor experienced in insurance restoration can streamline the claims process, helping you get fair compensation without the headache. |
| Clear, Written Estimates | A professional provides a detailed, written breakdown of costs, materials, and project timeline. Avoid contractors who pressure you to sign contracts on the spot. |
Did You Know?
Winds as low as 45 mph can begin to lift and damage asphalt shingles, especially on older roofs. In the Treasure Valley, thunderstorm gusts can easily exceed this speed, making post-storm inspections a wise precaution for any property owner.
The Local Angle: Protecting Boise & Treasure Valley Properties
As a locally owned and operated business, Team Construction understands the unique challenges that Boise’s climate presents for both residential roofing and commercial roofing. We’ve helped thousands of property owners across the Treasure Valley recover from storm damage. We are committed to using quality materials and providing workmanship backed by lifetime warranties, ensuring your new roof is built to last. Our team lives and works here, so our reputation is built on the trust of our neighbors.
Don’t Wait for a Leak to Become a Catastrophe
Suspect storm damage? Let our experts provide a complimentary inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long do I have to file a roof damage claim after a storm?
Most insurance policies require you to file a claim promptly after the damage occurs. While timelines can vary, waiting too long can result in a denied claim. It’s best to act within a few days or weeks of the storm.
Will my insurance premiums go up if I file a claim for storm damage?
Filing a claim for storm damage, which is considered an “Act of God,” generally does not cause an individual’s premium to increase. However, if an entire area is hit by a major storm, insurers may raise rates for everyone in that region regardless of who filed a claim.
What happens if my insurance claim is denied?
If your claim is denied, don’t give up. You can ask your insurance company to send a different adjuster for a second opinion. A reputable roofing contractor can provide detailed evidence of the damage to help you appeal the decision.
Should I get multiple quotes for a roof repair?
When insurance is covering the cost, the price is often determined by the adjuster’s estimate, so seeking the lowest bid isn’t the primary goal. Your focus should be on choosing a certified, reputable contractor you trust to do the work correctly and advocate for all necessary repairs to be covered.
Can a roofing contractor waive my deductible?
No. A contractor offering to waive or cover your insurance deductible is committing insurance fraud. Homeowners are legally responsible for paying their deductible. Be wary of any contractor who makes this offer.
