If your home was hit by the recent hail storm or tornadoes in Eau Claire, you’re not alone. Thousands of homes in the area were affected. For many people, the biggest question is, “What do I do now?”
At Schmidt Roofing, we’ve helped more than 20,000 homeowners across the Midwest repair and replace storm-damaged roofs. We’re local, we’re family-owned, and we’re already out in your area doing inspections.
Here’s what we recommend if you think your roof was damaged during the storm.
1. Make Sure Everyone’s Safe
Stop and assess.
Before you check anything, look around your home. Are there any downed power lines? Broken tree limbs? Sagging ceilings or obvious damage? If anything seems unsafe, avoid those areas and call for help. Safety always comes first.
2. Look for Obvious Signs of Damage
Once it’s safe to go outside, take a look around your property from the ground. No need to climb up on the roof. Some common signs of storm damage include:
- Shingles that are missing, lifted, or curled
- Granules piling up in your gutters or driveway
- Dents on metal vents, flashing, or gutters
- Water stains on your ceiling or attic walls
- Pieces of roofing material on the ground
Even if everything looks okay from where you stand, damage can still be hiding just under the surface.
3. Know the Difference Between Hail and Tornado Damage
Hail and wind can both cause problems, but in different ways.
- Hail tends to leave dents, knock granules off your shingles, and create soft spots in the roofing material.
- High winds or tornadoes can lift shingles, break flashing seals, or even shift your roof’s structure.
This kind of damage isn’t always easy to see, which is why a professional inspection is your best next step.
4. Schedule a Roof Inspection as Soon as Possible
Storm damage can get worse quickly, especially if it rains again. The sooner you catch it, the better your chances of avoiding leaks, rot, or mold. Insurance companies also prefer that damage be reported quickly.
Schmidt Roofing is offering free, no-obligation inspections in Eau Claire and Hudson. If you think something’s not right, we’ll come take a look and let you know exactly what’s going on.
5. Take Photos if You Can
Photos are always helpful. Take clear pictures of your roof, siding, gutters, and any visible damage inside your home. These will come in handy when filing your insurance claim for roof repair or roof replacement services.
6. File Your Insurance Claim
If your roof has damage, it’s time to get in touch with your insurance company. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Call your insurance provider as soon as possible
- Have your photos and inspection details ready
- Try to be home when the adjuster comes by
- We’re happy to meet with the adjuster if you’d like
We work with all major insurance companies and can help you through the process from start to finish.
7. Be Cautious About Storm Chasers
After a big storm, you might see out-of-town roofing companies show up offering quick repairs. Some are fine, but many are not. These companies often disappear after the job is done, leaving you with no support if something goes wrong.
Schmidt Roofing is different. We’re a family-owned company with permanent teams working in Eau Claire, Hudson, and nearby areas. We’ve been part of the community for years, and we’re not going anywhere.
Why Homeowners in Eau Claire Trust Us
- More than 20,000 roofing projects completed
- Free inspections and no-pressure estimates
- Insurance claim help every step of the way
- Local crews based in Eau Claire and Hudson
- Family-owned and committed to long-term quality
FAQs: Storm Damage and Roof Repairs
How do I know if my roof is really damaged?
Sometimes damage is obvious, like missing shingles. But hail bruises or lifted edges might not be visible without a trained eye. That’s why inspections are so important.
Will insurance cover this?
Most policies include coverage for storm-related damage. We’ll help you understand your policy and assist with paperwork.
How fast can you get here?
We’re prioritizing homes in Eau Claire and can usually schedule an inspection within 24 to 48 hours.
What if I wait to fix it?
Delaying repairs can cause more damage over time. It might even affect your insurance coverage if the issue gets worse.
Is the inspection really free?
Yes. We’ll inspect your roof and give you a full report at no cost or obligation.
Let’s Take a Look at Your Roof
If your home was in the path of the storm, give us a call. Whether you need repairs or just want peace of mind, we’re here to help.
Contact Schmidt Roofing today or use our online form to schedule your free storm damage inspection.
