In most cases, roofing problems are discovered after damage has occurred from a leak. However, not all leaks produce visible damage immediately. Some leaks can occur for months or year before visible damage is seen. To avoid this hidden problem, it is important to have your roof inspected periodically and especially after harsh weather events by a qualified roofing contractor. Periodic inspections often can uncover fractured, cracked, warped or missing shingles; it can also reveal deteriorated matting, inadequate flashings and penetration failures. If you see excessive shingle granules accumulating in the gutters or at flowerbeds where downspouts are, then it would be good to call a roofing expert because this could be a sign of potential roof problems. There are other visible signs of roof problems that show up on the interior such as cracked paint, discolored drywall and moisture buildup in ceilings etc… On low slopes you may notice cracks or holes in the seams of the roof or flashing, exposed nails are another place where water can get in and cause damage.

The simple answer is rarely. Many times it takes getting up on the roof and then a trained eye can spot roofing hail damage. You also will want to inspect all roof penetrations, valleys, chimney or wall flashings, vents caps and collars, skylights and siding to be looked at by a trained professional. From the ground tell-tale signs of hail damage can be seen in dented gutters and downspouts, A/C fins, windows and screens, fence, wood deck and painted wood surfaces.

In the Dallas / Fort Worth area, the requirements vary with each insurance company. The norm is that if there are 6 to 10 hail hits in a 10’ x 10’ square area (100 SQ FT) on 3 out of the 4 directional sides of the roof, then generally the insurance adjuster pays for the entire roof to be replaced. Call Accent Roofing & Construction and let us initially inspect your roof to determine if there is enough damage to file the claim and if so, we will assist you through the whole process of the insurance claim; we make the whole process simple and beneficial for you. We use the same estimating system” that insurance carriers use to calculate the damage however we know how to write it better and often we see an increase in the available funds for your repairs.

It is very important to select the right roofing contractor and a few questions should help in the selection.

1. Is you contractor from the local area? Do they have a long business history in the area? Could they be from another state chasing storms?

2. Does your contractor have a place of business? Make sure they do not work out of their vehicle / home because they may be here today but gone tomorrow.

3. Is your contractor a member of the Better Business Bureau? Or other reputable consumers advocate agencies / roof associations etc? Reputable contractors will be in good standing with the community.

4. Is your contractor bonded and have all the necessary insurance coverage such as general liability, workers compensation and commercial auto policy? Most do not so please be aware.

5. Do they have current references that can be verified?