Should You Replace or Repair Your Roof After Hail Damage in Illinois?

Key Takeaways:

1. Hail damage hides well – If your gutters are full of shingle granules or you see dents on vents, your roof likely needs attention.
2. Small fixes now prevent big bills later – A few damaged shingles today can turn into leaks and rot next season.
3. Insurance may cover it (but you need proof) – Take photos and get a pro inspection before talking to your insurance company.
4. Old roofs often need replacing – If your roof was already 15+ years old before the storm, repairs might just be temporary.
5. The right roofer makes all the difference – Choose someone local who knows Illinois weather and will fight for fair insurance treatment.

Illinois weather doesn’t play nice. One day it’s sunny, the next—boom—hail storms are pelting your roof like a baseball pitcher gone wild. You might step outside afterward, look up, and think, "Eh, it doesn’t look that bad." But here’s the thing: Hail damage isn’t always obvious. And if you ignore it, you could end up with roof leaks, water stains, and even structural damage down the road.

So, how do you know if you need minor repairs or a complete roof replacement? And what will your insurance company actually cover? Let’s break it all down.

How Hail Damages Different Roof Types

Not all roofs handle hail the same way.

• Asphalt shingles – The most common roofing in Illinois. Hail can knock off granules (the rough, sandy part), leaving the shingles weaker. If you see bald spots or dents, that’s visible damage.
• Metal roofing – More durable, but large hail can still dent it. Small dents might just be cosmetic, but big ones can affect how well the roof seals.
• Flat or low-slope roofs – Hail can puncture the membrane, leading to water infiltration.

Pro Tip: Even if you don’t see damage right away, get a roof inspection after a bad storm. Hidden cracks or loose materials can turn into leaks later.

Signs Your Roof Has Hail Damage

Some signs of hail damage are easy to spot—others aren’t. Here’s what to look for:

• Dented or missing shingles (Check your gutters too—granules washing out means your shingles are wearing down.)
• Cracks in the roof deck (If you can see sunlight through your attic, that’s a big red flag.)
• Dings on vents, gutters, or flashing (If metal parts are dented, your roof probably took a beating too.)
• Water stains on ceilings (A sure sign that roof leaks have already started.)

If you notice any of these, call a professional roofing contractor to assess the damage. 

Waiting can lead to extensive damage and way higher repair costs.

Repair vs. Replace: How to Decide

This is the million-dollar question (sometimes literally). Here’s when each option makes sense:

When Repairs Are Enough

• Only a few shingles are damaged
• No leaks or water damage inside
• The roof is less than 10 years old (and in good shape otherwise)

A minor repair might be all you need, and your insurance policy will likely cover it.

When You Need a Full Replacement

• The storm damage is widespread (like 30% or more of the roof)
• There’s structural damage underneath
• Your roof was already old before the hail hit

In these cases, patching things up is just a temporary fix. A complete roof replacement might cost more upfront, but it’ll save you from expensive repairs later.

Important: Some homeowners' insurance policies only pay the Actual Cash Value (depreciated cost) for older roofs. Check your insurance coverage before deciding.

Dealing with Insurance After Hail Damage

Filing an insurance claim for hail damage roof repair can be tricky. Here’s how to make it smoother:

1. Document everything – Take photos of the damage (both outside and inside if there are leaks).
2. Get a professional inspection – A roofing company like ours can give you a detailed report to show the insurance adjuster.
3. Don’t settle for lowball offers – Some insurers downplay storm damage. If their estimate seems too low, push back.

Remember: Insurance companies don’t always have your best interests in mind. Having a professional roofer on your side helps.

Why Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor Matters

Not all roofing contractors handle hail damage the same way. Some might push for unnecessary roof replacements, while others might cut corners on repair costs. Here’s what to look for:

• Local experience (Illinois weather is unique—you want someone who knows our severe storms.)
• Good reviews & references (Check Google, BBB, and past customer feedback.)
• Insurance claim help (A good roofing company will work with your insurance company, not against them.)

At Advanced Roofing Inc., we’ve helped hundreds of Illinois homeowners navigate hail damage roof repair, and insurance roof claims. We’ll give you an honest assessment—no pressure, just straight facts.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Hail damage won’t magically fix itself. Ignoring it can lead to:

• Mold growth from trapped moisture
• Higher energy bills (damaged roofs lose insulation)
• Costly structural repairs if leaks weaken your home

If you suspect hail damage, get a roof inspection ASAP. The sooner you act, the more money—and headaches—you’ll save.

Need Help with Your Hail-Damaged Roof?

If you’re in Illinois and your roof took a beating from hailstorms, Advanced Roofing Inc. can help. We’ll inspect your roof, work with your insurance company, and recommend the best solution—whether it’s minor repairs or a full roof replacement.

Don’t gamble with your home. Contact us today for a free, no-pressure inspection. Let’s make sure your roof is ready for whatever Illinois weather throws at it next.

There you have it—the real deal on hail damage roof repair in Illinois. Whether you need a quick fix or a whole new roof, the key is acting fast. The longer you wait, the worse (and pricier) the damage gets. When in doubt, get it checked!