Roofing Contractor Advice on Evaluating Hail Damage in Tulsa

On May 21, 2024, there was a severe hail storm that swept through the area of southern Broken Arrow, Jenks, and the city of Tulsa itself, causing widespread and significant damage. The hailstones from these storms measured up to 2.5 inches, which is nearly the size of tennis balls. Golf-ball size hailstones were reported in many areas throughout this region. Learn how you should assess the hail damage from these storms and what you should do below.

Assessing Your Roof Damage

Hail between the size of golf balls and tennis balls can cause considerable damage to roofs, including breaking and cracking shingles. This can lead to leaks and potential water damage to your hole through those leaks. Metal components such as downspouts and gutters can be dented or dislodged by such large hailstones, leading to ineffective water drainage. The integrity of your roof can be compromised by such hailstones, which could lead to greater damage over time, leading to more costly repairs in the future.

What to Do Next

After you have done your own assessment of roof damage, you should schedule a professional inspection of your roof as soon as possible. A professional will be able to thoroughly inspect your roof for any possible damage that may be almost undetectable to the untrained eye, preventing greater damage from occurring in the future. Additionally, to file insurance claims for damage to your roof, you need necessary documentation that is provided by and signed by a trained roof repair professional. This can help to give you peace of mind, as you can help to ensure your roof is strong enough to protect your home and family from future storms and severe weather events.

Hailstorms are a common reality in Tulsa, and even a short storm can cause serious damage to your roof. Many homeowners don’t realize the impact right away because hail damage isn’t always obvious from the ground. As a trusted local expert, Right Now Roofing & Solar often advises homeowners to evaluate their roofs carefully after any hail event to avoid long-term structural and financial issues.

One of the first things to understand about hail damage is that it varies based on hail size, wind speed, and the age of your roof. In Tulsa, hailstones can range from small pellets to golf-ball-sized ice, each causing different levels of damage. Asphalt shingles may lose protective granules, develop bruises, or crack, while metal roofing can dent and loosen fasteners. Even if the damage looks minor, it can reduce your roof’s lifespan and weaken its ability to protect your home.

Visual signs are important, but they don’t always tell the full story. From the ground, you might notice dents in gutters, downspouts, window screens, or siding, which often indicate the roof has also been affected. On the roof itself, hail impact can appear as dark spots, soft areas, or exposed underlayment. However, some damage is only visible to trained eyes, which is why professional evaluation is strongly recommended after a hailstorm in Tulsa.

Timing plays a critical role when assessing hail damage. Waiting too long can allow small issues to turn into leaks, mold growth, or interior ceiling damage. Tulsa’s changing weather conditions, including heavy rain and strong winds after hailstorms, can worsen existing damage quickly. Early assessment helps prevent secondary problems and makes it easier to document damage accurately for insurance purposes.

Insurance claims are another area where professional roofing contractor advice becomes valuable. Many homeowners struggle with identifying what qualifies as hail damage and how to present it properly to insurers. A qualified roofing contractor can document impact marks, measure hail strikes, and provide detailed reports that support your claim. This can significantly improve the chances of receiving fair coverage for necessary repairs or replacement.

It’s also important to avoid quick fixes or unverified repair offers after a hailstorm. Storm-chasing contractors often appear in Tulsa neighborhoods offering free inspections or immediate repairs. While some may be legitimate, others may lack local experience or proper licensing. Choosing a local company like Right Now Roofing & Solar ensures the contractor understands Tulsa’s weather patterns, building codes, and long-term roofing needs.

Regular roof inspections, especially after severe weather, are one of the best ways to protect your investment. Even if hail damage seems minimal, a professional evaluation can uncover hidden issues and provide peace of mind. With proper assessment, timely repairs, and expert guidance, Tulsa homeowners can maintain strong, reliable roofs that stand up to future storms and protect their homes for years to come.

Contact us to learn about our roofing services and how we can help to ensure your roof is strong again after the recent hail damage.