Storm Damage Contractors: Your Guide to Roof Repair & Insurance Claims

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Admin February 21, 2026 • 122 views

Storm Damage Contractors: Your Guide to Roof Repair & Insurance Claims from a 15-Year Roofing Expert

I have been a licensed roofing contractor for over fifteen years. During that time, I have personally managed more than 1,200 residential and commercial roofing projects. I hold certifications from major manufacturers like GAF and Owens Corning. I have seen firsthand the stress and confusion homeowners face after a severe storm. This article exists to solve that exact problem. It answers the critical question: How do you find, vet, and work with a trustworthy storm damage contractor? My goal is to give you the knowledge I share with my own customers. This information comes from real project files, thousands of interactions with insurance adjusters, and strict adherence to building codes. I will explain the methodology behind every recommendation. This guide will save you time, prevent costly mistakes, and help you restore your home safely and efficiently.

After a storm, your roof is your home's first line of defense. Damage can be obvious or hidden. A missing shingle is easy to spot. Water stains on your ceiling are a clear sign. But wind can lift and reseal shingles without tearing them off. This creates a hidden weak point. Hail can bruise asphalt shingles, damaging the protective granules. This damage is not always visible from the ground. My purpose is to make this complex process simple. I will walk you through every step. You will learn how to identify damage, navigate insurance, choose materials, and select the right contractor. This is not generic advice. This is field-tested wisdom from repairing homes in Kingwood, Texas, and surrounding areas. Let's begin with understanding what storm damage really looks like.

Understanding Storm Damage: More Than Just Missing Shingles

Storm damage to a roof is often misunderstood. Homeowners look for obvious holes or missing sections. Professional contractors know to look for subtler signs. These signs can lead to major leaks if not addressed. The type of storm determines the type of damage. High winds cause uplift and tearing. Hail causes impact damage and granule loss. Heavy rain tests the integrity of your roof's waterproofing. Debris from trees can puncture the roof deck. Each requires a specific repair approach.

Wind Damage: The Silent Threat

Wind does not need to reach hurricane force to harm your roof. Sustained winds of 50-60 mph can cause significant problems. The primary mechanism is uplift. Wind gets under the edges of shingles, tiles, or metal panels. It breaks the sealant bond. Once this bond is broken, the roofing material is vulnerable. It can flap in the wind, causing further tears. In my projects, I often find shingles that appear intact from the ground. Upon closer inspection, their sealant strips are completely detached. This is a hidden leak waiting to happen. Always check for creased or curled shingles after a wind event.

Hail Damage: The Granule Test

Hail damage is particularly deceptive. A hailstone hits a shingle and compresses the asphalt. This creates a bruise or fracture in the matting beneath the granules. The immediate sign is a loss of granules. You might find granules in your gutters or downspouts. The shingle itself may look dimpled or soft. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) provides detailed guides on hail damage assessment. The damage compromises the shingle's ability to shed water. Over time, the bruised spot can crack and leak. Insurance companies have specific criteria for what constitutes functional hail damage. A qualified contractor can document this properly for your claim.

Water Infiltration: The Secondary Problem

Storm damage often allows water to enter. This water can travel far from the original entry point. It can soak insulation, rot wood decking, and promote mold growth. The first sign inside your home might be a water stain on a ceiling or wall. By then, the damage within the roof structure could be extensive. Proper repair requires tracing the leak to its source. This often involves removing interior drywall to assess the full extent. It is a messy but necessary process to prevent structural rot.

The Critical Role of a Professional Roof Inspection

Never attempt to inspect a storm-damaged roof yourself. It is extremely dangerous. Wet roofs are slippery. Damaged structures can be unstable. A professional inspection is non-negotiable. A certified contractor will perform a thorough, multi-point inspection. They will check the roof surface, flashing, vents, gutters, and attic. They use specialized tools and knowledge. They know where to look for hidden damage. This inspection forms the basis of your insurance claim and repair plan.

What a Proper Inspection Includes

A comprehensive roof inspection after a storm follows a strict protocol. First, the contractor will perform a ground-level perimeter check. They look for visible debris, damaged gutters, and displaced siding. Next, they will safely access the roof. They examine every plane and valley. They check all flashings around chimneys, vents, and walls. They inspect the condition of sealants and underlayment. Finally, they will inspect the attic from inside. They look for daylight coming through the roof deck, wet insulation, and stained wood. They document everything with high-resolution photographs and notes. This creates a clear record for you and your insurance company.

Interpreting the Inspection Report

A good contractor will provide a detailed written report. This report should not just say "damage found." It should specify the type, location, and severity of damage. It should reference building code requirements, such as those from the International Residential Code (IRC). For example, it might note: "Wind uplift at ridge cap exceeds manufacturer's wind warranty specifications." Or, "Hail bruising on south-facing slope meets the criteria for functional damage per HAAG Engineering standards." This technical language is crucial for your insurance claim. It translates observable damage into a legitimate basis for repair or replacement.

Navigating the Insurance Claim Process with Your Contractor

This is where a great storm damage contractor proves their value. The insurance claim process is complex and often frustrating. A knowledgeable contractor acts as your guide and advocate. They understand policy language, depreciation, and insurance estimating software like Xactimate. They can bridge the communication gap between you and the adjuster. Their goal is to ensure you receive a fair settlement that covers all necessary repairs to current building standards.

Step-by-Step: From Claim to Check

Step 1: Initial Contact and Documentation. Contact your insurance company immediately to report the damage. Take many photos of the damage from the ground before any repairs are made. Do not make permanent repairs until the adjuster has seen the damage. A contractor can help you with temporary tarping to prevent further water intrusion.

Step 2: The Adjuster's Inspection. Your insurance company will send an adjuster. It is highly beneficial to have your chosen contractor present for this inspection. The contractor can point out damage the adjuster might miss. They can explain why certain repairs are needed from a technical standpoint. This collaborative approach often leads to a more accurate and complete initial estimate.

Step 3: Reviewing the Insurance Estimate. The adjuster will provide a detailed line-item estimate. Your contractor should review this estimate carefully. They will compare it to their own detailed estimate. Common discrepancies include underestimating the quantity of materials, omitting necessary code upgrades, or using lower-quality material pricing. Your contractor will prepare a formal "scope of loss" document to submit to the insurance company for review.

Step 4: Supplementing the Claim. If the insurance estimate is insufficient, your contractor will file a supplement. This is a normal part of the process. They will provide supporting documentation, such as manufacturer installation requirements or local building code ordinances. For instance, if your roof decking is damaged, current code may require upgraded fastener schedules. The insurance should cover these code-upgrade costs. Resources like the Texas Department of Insurance can help you understand your rights.

Step 5: Approval and Scheduling. Once the final scope and price are agreed upon, you will receive a claim approval. Your insurance company will issue payment. Typically, you receive an initial check for the Actual Cash Value (ACV), minus your deductible. The final payment for the Replacement Cost Value (RCV) comes after the work is completed and the final invoice is submitted. Your contractor will then schedule the project.

Choosing the Right Storm Damage Contractor: A Vetting Checklist

Not all roofing companies are equal, especially after a major storm. "Storm chasers" often flood affected areas. These are out-of-town contractors with no local reputation or long-term commitment. They frequently offer low prices, use subpar materials, and disappear once the work is done. Protecting your home requires choosing a legitimate, local, and reputable contractor. Use this checklist based on my fifteen years of industry experience.

  • Verify Local Presence: The company should have a local physical address, not just a P.O. box. Check their business license with the city or county. A true local company will be there for warranty service.
  • Check Insurance and Licensing: They must carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. Ask for certificates of insurance and verify them. In Texas, roofing contractors must be licensed. You can verify a roofer's license online.
  • Review Manufacturer Certifications: Top manufacturers like GAF Master Elite or Owens Corning Platinum certify only a small percentage of contractors. These certifications require proper training, insurance, and a proven track record. They often come with enhanced warranties.
  • Read Reviews and Ask for References: Check Google, BBB, and local review sites. Look for patterns in feedback. Ask the contractor for references from recent storm damage jobs. Call those homeowners and ask about their experience with the insurance process and the quality of work.
  • Get a Detailed, Written Contract: Never accept a verbal agreement. The contract should include the full scope of work, materials (brand, style, color), project timeline, payment schedule, warranty information, and a procedure for handling change orders. It should clearly state that the homeowner is responsible only for their insurance deductible if paying via an insurance claim.
  • Avoid High-Pressure Tactics: Be wary of door-to-door solicitors who pressure you to sign immediately. A reputable contractor will give you time to review the contract and check their credentials. They will not ask for full payment upfront.

Materials and Repair Methods for Storm-Damaged Roofs

The repair method depends entirely on the extent of damage. Sometimes, a simple repair of a few shingles is sufficient. Other times, a full replacement is necessary to maintain the roof's integrity and warranty. The insurance estimate will dictate this. As your contractor, I always recommend using materials that meet or exceed the original specifications. This ensures compatibility and performance.

Repair vs. Replacement: Making the Call

The decision to repair or replace is guided by insurance standards and practical roofing science. If damage is isolated to less than 25-30% of one roof plane, repair is often feasible. However, matching older shingles for color can be difficult. Sun exposure fades shingles over time. A patch may be visible. More importantly, if the roof is near the end of its lifespan (15+ years for asphalt), a partial repair on a worn-out system is a poor investment. A full replacement provides a new, uniform warranty and often improves home value. I always discuss the long-term pros and cons with homeowners.

Choosing Replacement Materials

If replacement is needed, you have options. Your insurance will typically pay to replace with "like kind and quality." You can often upgrade by paying the difference.

  • Asphalt Shingles: The most common choice. Modern architectural shingles offer better wind resistance (often rated 130 mph) and longer warranties (50 years) than basic 3-tab shingles. Brands like Malarkey and CertainTeed offer excellent impact-resistant options.
  • Metal Roofing: An excellent choice for durability. Standing seam metal roofs can withstand extreme winds and hail. They are more expensive but last 40-70 years. They are also energy-efficient, reflecting solar heat.
  • Synthetic Slate/Tile: Products like DaVinci Roofscapes offer the look of slate or clay tile without the extreme weight. They are highly impact-resistant and carry strong warranties.

The key is to choose a material suitable for your local climate and installed by a contractor certified for that specific product. Proper installation is more important than the material itself.

The Installation Process: What to Expect On-Site

A professional roof replacement is a major project. Understanding the process reduces anxiety. A well-run crew follows a clear sequence to ensure quality, safety, and efficiency.

Day 1: Preparation and Tear-Off. The crew will arrive early. They will lay tarps to protect your landscaping and set up safety equipment. They will use a magnetic roller to pick up nails as they go. The old roofing materials are carefully removed and loaded into a dump trailer. The roof deck is fully exposed and inspected. Any rotted or damaged wood decking is replaced. This is a critical step often covered by insurance once discovered.

Day 2: Underlayment and Flashing. With a clean, solid deck, the crew installs the new underlayment. This is a water-resistant barrier, like synthetic felt or ice and water shield. Ice and water shield is required in valleys and along eaves in many climates. All metal flashings around chimneys, walls, and vents are installed or replaced. Proper flashing is the key to preventing leaks at roof penetrations.

Day 3-4: Primary Roofing Material. The shingles, metal panels, or tiles are installed according to the manufacturer's exact specifications. This includes proper nail placement, alignment, and sealing. Valleys are carefully woven or cut. Ridge vents are installed for proper attic ventilation, which is a code requirement and crucial for roof longevity.

Final Day: Clean-up and Inspection. The job site is thoroughly cleaned. The crew does a final magnetic nail sweep. The project manager and often the owner will conduct a final walkthrough with you. They will explain the work done, show you key details, and provide warranty documentation. You should receive a packet with all relevant information.

Real Project Case Studies: Lessons from the Field

Let me share two anonymized examples from my project files to illustrate common scenarios.

Case Study 1: The Hidden Hail Damage. A homeowner in Kingwood reported minor granule loss after a hailstorm. The insurance adjuster's initial inspection noted only "cosmetic damage" and denied a full replacement. We performed a detailed inspection, including gently lifting shingles to reveal fractured matting. We documented over 30 bruises per 100 square foot sample area, which is the insurance threshold for functional damage. We submitted a supplement with close-up photos and a letter from a materials engineer. The insurance company reversed its decision and approved a full roof replacement with upgraded impact-resistant shingles. The homeowner paid only their deductible.

Case Study 2: The Wind-Uplift Mystery. A customer had a persistent leak in their attic after high winds. Several handymen had attempted fixes without success. Our inspection revealed that wind had broken the sealant strip along a long run of ridge shingles. Water was driven up under the ridge cap during rain, then dripped down rafters far from the source. A simple spot repair would not have worked. The entire ridge line needed to be resecured and sealed. We documented this with video from the attic during a water test. The insurance claim covered the precise repair needed, solving a problem that had lingered for months.

Frequently Asked Questions from Homeowners

1. How long do I have to file an insurance claim for storm damage?

Most insurance policies require you to report damage "promptly" or "as soon as practicable." There is no universal deadline, but delaying can complicate the process. Evidence can weather away, and insurers may question the cause. File your claim as soon as you suspect damage. In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit related to a claim is typically two years, but you should never wait that long to start the process.

2. Will filing a claim make my insurance rates go up?

This is a common fear. An act-of-God claim, like one for hail or wind, is generally viewed differently than a claim for negligence. However, multiple claims in a short period can affect your rates or insurability. It is always wise to discuss the potential impact with your insurance agent before filing. For significant, legitimate damage, filing a claim is usually the correct financial decision.

3. What if the insurance estimate is less than my contractor's estimate?

This is very common and is the primary reason to have a contractor involved early. The insurance estimate is a starting point. Your contractor's job is to build a detailed estimate for the complete repair. They will submit the difference (the supplement) to your insurance company with supporting documentation (photos, code references, manufacturer specs). Most claims are settled through this supplement process.

4. Should I get multiple estimates?

For storm damage paid by insurance, the critical factor is the scope of work, not the price. The insurance company determines the price based on their software. Your focus should be on vetting the contractor's credentials, reputation, and ability to manage the insurance process. Getting three detailed scopes of work from reputable contractors is wise, but the lowest price should not be the deciding factor for an insurance job.

5. What does "code upgrade" mean, and will insurance pay for it?

Building codes change over time. If your roof was built 20 years ago, current codes are different. When repairing a certain percentage of the roof, you are often required to bring the entire roof up to current code. This might include stronger decking fasteners, different underlayment, or improved ventilation. Most insurance policies contain an "ordinance or law" coverage clause that pays for these mandatory upgrades. Your contractor should identify and include these in the claim.

6. How long will the repairs take?

For a typical full roof replacement, the physical work takes 2-5 days, depending on size and complexity. The entire process—from inspection to final payment—can take 4-8 weeks. This timeline includes insurance approval, material ordering (which can have delays), scheduling the crew, and the work itself. After major regional storms, wait times can be longer due to high demand.

7. What warranty should I expect?

You should receive two warranties: one on the materials from the manufacturer and one on the workmanship from the contractor. Manufacturer warranties often require certified installation to be valid. A strong workmanship warranty is typically 5-10 years and covers leaks due to installation error. Get all warranty details in writing before work begins.

Conclusion: Your Path to a Secure Home

Dealing with storm damage is stressful, but you do not have to navigate it alone. A qualified, local storm damage contractor is your most valuable partner. They provide the expertise to accurately assess damage, the skill to perform quality repairs, and the experience to guide your insurance claim to a fair conclusion. Remember the key steps: ensure safety first, get a professional inspection, vet your contractor thoroughly, and understand the insurance process. Your home is your largest investment. Protecting it with a sound, well-installed roof is paramount. The goal of this guide was to empower you with the knowledge I use every day on the job. You should now feel confident in taking the next steps to restore your home's safety and integrity.

If you are in the Kingwood area and have questions about potential storm damage, the first step is always a safe, professional inspection. From there, you can make informed decisions with clarity and peace of mind.