Hail Hits Home

Picking Up the Pieces: After a Severe Hailstorm

So the storm has finally passed, the loud roaring has halted. Large, damaging hail pummeling your property can leave homeowners in shock and uncertainty. Now the real challenge begins—assessing the destruction, making urgent repairs, and navigating the recovery process. Hail can leave behind shattered windows, dented vehicles, roof damage, and even structural issues, making the aftermath just as stressful as the storm itself. Here at Catasco we work to make your recovery a lot easier.

Stepping Outside to Assess the Damage

As soon as it’s safe, homeowners cautiously step outside to inspect their property. The scene often looks chaotic, with:

• Large hailstones scattered across driveways, lawns, and rooftops

• Broken tree branches and debris covering the yard

• Dented cars with cracked or shattered windshields

• Siding, gutters, and fences damaged from the storm’s impact

For many, the extent of the damage isn’t immediately clear and easy to see, especially on rooftops, where small holes or weakened shingles may not be obvious from the ground. It is extremely important to get your roof inspected by a roofing professional after a hail storm to prevent further leaks & damages later on. Roof damage is one of the biggest concerns after a hailstorm. Even if a roof looks intact, large hailstones can crack shingles, puncture roofing materials, or weaken structural integrity. Some homeowners may notice:

• Leaks forming inside the house as water seeps through damaged areas

• Missing or broken shingles

• Granules from asphalt shingles collecting in gutters and downspouts

• Dented metal roofing panels

If the hailstones were large enough, they have the potential power to rip through the decking of your roof and enter your home. This can be very dangerous to you & your families well being & your property.

Cleaning Up Broken Glass and Interior Damage

If the hailstorm shattered windows or skylights, homeowners must carefully clean up the mess. This involves:

• Sweeping up glass shards to prevent injury

• Boarding up broken windows to prevent further exposure to the elements

• Moving furniture and valuables away from water-damaged areas

For those with severe window damage, keeping their home secure becomes a priority, especially if the storm has left large openings.

Inspecting Vehicles for Damage

Cars left outside during the storm often suffer severe damage. Common issues include:

• Dented hoods, roofs, and trunks

• Cracked or shattered windshields

• Side mirrors broken or knocked off

• Hail-induced paint damage

It is best to immediately check your auto insurance policies to determine if hail damage is covered and whether you need to file a claim or not.

Contacting Insurance Companies

One of the most time-consuming tasks after a hailstorm is dealing with insurance claims. Homeowners begin by:

• Documenting all damage with photos and videos

• Making a list of affected items (roof, siding, windows, vehicles, outdoor furniture, etc.)

• Calling their insurance provider to start the claims process

Insurance adjusters may take days or weeks to inspect the damage, leaving homeowners in limbo as they wait for approval to begin repairs. This can be very stressful to go through alone leading to coverage insecurities. For those without sufficient insurance coverage, the financial burden can be devastating, forcing them to pay out of pocket for extensive repairs.

Finding Reliable Contractors for Repairs

With widespread damages in the community, local & national roofing companies, window installers, and contractors become overwhelmed with requests. Homeowners often struggle with:

• Scheduling inspections and getting quotes for repairs

• Finding reputable contractors amid a surge of demand

• Avoiding scammers who offer quick fixes but disappear after taking deposit payments

The rush to repair homes can lead to long wait times, leaving some homeowners exposed to the elements for weeks. Here at Catasco we work to make sure you’re not one of those homeowners waiting weeks. Simply submit a request with us & we’ll get you set up as quickly as possible with a reliable contractor that can get the job done right. 

Community Support and Recovery Efforts

In neighborhoods hit hardest by the storm, communities often come together to help each other recover. You may often see:

• Neighbors assisting with cleanup efforts

• Local organizations or relief groups offering temporary aid

• City officials coordinating emergency response and debris removal

Despite the stress, homeowners often find comfort in the shared experience of rebuilding alongside their neighbors.

Recovering from a severe hailstorm can certainly a difficult process, filled with damage assessments, insurance claims, and costly repairs. While the immediate aftermath can feel overwhelming, taking quick action to document damage, secure repairs, and protect property can make the recovery smoother with Catasco by your side. For homeowners in hail-prone areas, being prepared with strong insurance coverage, impact-resistant materials, and a solid emergency plan can make all the difference when the next storm hits.