Early risers in Shawnee, Kansas, woke up to a rude awakening this morning. Severe thunderstorms rolled through the area, unleashing a barrage of hail and leaving behind a path of potential roof damage. Reports indicate hail reaching up to half-dollar size, which can wreak havoc on shingles and siding.

While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, homeowners should be proactive in checking their roofs for signs of trouble. Here’s what you need to know:

Spotting Roof Damage:

Missing or damaged shingles: Look for bald spots or shingles that are cracked, broken, or curled.
Granule loss: Shingle granules protect the asphalt underneath. If you see piles of granules in your gutters or around your house, it’s a sign of potential wear and tear.
Leaks: This is the most obvious sign of damage. Check your attic and ceilings for water stains.

Taking Action:

Safety first: Don’t climb onto your roof yourself, especially if it’s wet or damaged.
Document everything: Take photos and videos of the hail damage and any leaks you find.
Contact your insurance company: File a claim as soon as possible. They will send an adjuster to assess the damage.
Find a reputable roofer: Don’t rush into hiring the first contractor you come across. Most insurance carriers allow up to 1 year to file a claim. Larry L. Vaught Roofing is certified and a credited roofer that will work with your insurance to cover the complete cost of replacing your roof!

Resources for Shawnee Residents:

The National Weather Service (https://www.weather.gov/) can provide you with the latest weather information and hail size reports for your area.
Your homeowner’s insurance company will be able to guide you through the claims process.
The Shawnee City website (https://www.cityofshawnee.org/) may have resources for residents dealing with storm damage.

The good news is that Shawnee is a resilient community. By working together, we can recover from this storm and get our roofs back in shape. Stay safe, Shawnee!