Hail Damage
in Chicagoland
(708) 290-8500Serving Tinley Park, Orland Park, Frankfort, Oak Lawn & 40+ suburbs. 20+ years experience. Free estimates.
About Hail Damage
Chicago gets hit by hailstorms. When those storms damage your roof, Taurus Roofing helps you navigate repairs and insurance claims. We've handled hundreds of hail damage cases across Cook, Will, and DuPage Counties, serving homeowners in Tinley Park, Orland Park, Frankfort, and throughout Chicagoland.
Why Hail Damage Is a Serious Concern in Illinois
The Chicago region sits in what meteorologists call "Hail Alley." Storms that form over the plains gain intensity as they move east, often producing damaging hail by the time they reach the Chicagoland area. Each spring and summer, multiple significant hailstorms pass through Cook County and Will County, leaving a path of roof damage.
The problem is that hail damage isn't always obvious. A severe storm might leave your roof looking fine from the ground while the shingles are riddled with hidden damage that will cause leaks months or years later.
How Hail Damages Roofs:
Hail doesn't always punch holes in your roof. More often, it causes damage that's invisible to the untrained eye:
Shingle Bruising: Hail impacts compress the shingle mat, creating soft spots that break down over time. These bruises aren't visible but accelerate shingle deterioration.
Granule Loss: Each hail impact knocks granules off your shingles. These granules protect the asphalt from UV rays. Without them, shingles age prematurely. Heavy granule loss can cut years off your roof's life.
Cracking: Larger hail cracks shingles, creating paths for water to enter. These cracks may not leak immediately but will as the shingle flexes with temperature changes.
Flashing Dents: Hail dents metal flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Dented flashing may seal improperly, creating leak points.
Vent and Cap Damage: Metal roof vents, ridge caps, and pipe boots take direct hits that compromise their function.
The insidious nature of hail damage is that it weakens your entire roof system while often leaving it looking "fine" from a distance. That's why professional inspection matters.
Signs of Hail Damage (What to Look For):
On the Ground: - Dents in gutters, downspouts, or flashing - Dings on metal patio furniture, grills, or AC units - Dents in car hoods and roofs - Damaged siding or window screens - Granules accumulated around downspout exits
On the Roof: (visible only during inspection): - Circular cracks or bruises in shingles - Exposed black substrate where granules are missing - Soft spots where underlying mat is damaged - Cracked or dented vents and pipe boots - Damaged ridge caps
If your gutters, AC unit, or car show hail damage, your roof was hit too. The roof just shows it differently.
Our Hail Damage Process:
Step 1: Free Inspection
We examine your roof for hail damage and document everything with photos. We check shingles, flashing, vents, gutters, skylights, and chimney caps. We look for the subtle signs that indicate hidden damage. This inspection is free whether or not you ultimately file a claim.
Step 2: Damage Report
You receive a detailed report showing what we found, where we found it, and the extent of damage. This documentation is essential for insurance claims. We include photos with location markers and a professional assessment of repair vs. replacement needs.
Step 3: Insurance Claim Support
We work with all major insurance companies. We understand what documentation adjusters need, what they look for, and how claims are evaluated. We: - Help you file your claim properly - Meet with adjusters during their inspection - Point out damage that adjusters sometimes miss - Provide supplemental documentation when initial assessments are too low - Ensure your claim covers the full scope of legitimate damage
We don't inflate claims or encourage fraud - but we do ensure you receive what your policy covers.
Step 4: Repair or Replacement
Once your claim is approved, we complete the work. We match materials when repairing sections or install a complete new roof when damage warrants replacement. Our work is warranted, and we use quality materials that meet or exceed what was originally installed.
Insurance Claim Tips for Hail Damage:
File Promptly: Most policies require timely reporting of damage. Waiting too long can jeopardize your claim.
Document Everything: Take photos of hail on the ground during the storm (place a coin next to hailstones for scale). Photograph any visible damage to cars, siding, and outdoor equipment. These establish storm severity.
Get a Professional Inspection: Insurance adjusters sometimes miss damage that roofing specialists find. A professional inspection ensures nothing is overlooked.
Don't Accept the First Offer Automatically: Initial assessments sometimes underestimate damage. We can provide documentation to support supplement requests when warranted.
Don't Wait to Repair: Hail damage worsens over time as weakened shingles deteriorate. Prompt repair prevents secondary water damage.
Beware of Storm Chasers: After every hailstorm, out-of-town contractors flood the area offering "free inspections." Many are legitimate, but some do subpar work and disappear. Choose established local contractors.
Areas We Serve for Hail Damage:
We handle hail damage repairs throughout Tinley Park, Orland Park, Frankfort, Mokena, Homer Glen, New Lenox, Oak Lawn, Palos Heights, Lockport, Lemont, and all of Cook County and Will County.
Schedule Your Hail Damage Inspection:
Call (708) 290-8500 after any significant hailstorm. We typically schedule inspections within 24-48 hours.
What's Included
Why Choose Us for Hail Damage?
With 20+ years of experience and 400+ completed projects, we have the expertise to handle any hail damage project. Our licensed roofing professionals provide quality workmanship backed by our satisfaction guarantee.
Frequently Asked Questions
QHow do I know if hail damaged my roof?
Look for dented gutters, dings on metal vents, and granules in your gutters. Shingle damage often isn't visible from the ground. After a hailstorm, a professional inspection is the surest way to know.
QDoes insurance cover hail damage?
Most homeowner policies cover hail damage minus your deductible. Coverage varies, so check your policy. We document damage thoroughly to support your claim.
QHow long do I have to file a hail damage claim?
Time limits vary by policy but are typically 1-2 years from the storm date. However, filing promptly is best. Delayed claims face more scrutiny and may be harder to prove.
QShould I get multiple estimates for hail damage?
Getting 2-3 estimates is reasonable, but be cautious of extremely low bids. Storm chasers sometimes lowball estimates to win work, then cut corners. Choose established local contractors.
Hail Damage by Location
We provide hail damage throughout Chicagoland. Select your city for local service information and pricing.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact us today for professional hail damage services. Free estimates available.