Storm Damage to Your Roof? Here's What Illinois Residents Should Do Next

Key Takeaways:

1. Check for damage safely – Look for missing shingles, leaks, or sagging—but don’t climb up if it’s risky.
2. Stop leaks fast – Use tarps to prevent more water damage until the pros arrive.
3. Call a roofer before insurance – A pro inspection helps you fight for fair claims.
4. Know your insurance rights – Document everything and push for permanent fixes, not quick patches.
5. Advanced Roofing has your back – We handle storm repairs right, with no runarounds.

When a severe storm hits Illinois, it doesn’t mess around. Strong winds, hail, and pounding rain can leave your roof looking worse for wear—and sometimes, the damage isn’t even obvious at first glance. That’s why knowing what to do next can save you from costly repairs down the road.

Whether you’re dealing with missing shingles, water leaks, or something more serious, here’s exactly how to handle storm damage roof repair Illinois style—without getting ripped off or stuck in insurance claim limbo.

Step 1: Stay Safe & Check for Visible Damage

Before you do anything else, keep safety first. If the storm has just passed, wait until it’s safe to go outside. Look for obvious signs of damage like:

• Loose shingles or debris in your yard
• Dents or cracks from hail damage
• Water stains on ceilings (a red flag for water intrusion)
• Sagging areas (which could mean structural damage)

Pro tip: Use binoculars to check your roof from the ground. Climbing up there right after a storm is risky, especially if there are hidden structural issues.

Step 2: Stop Additional Damage ASAP

If you spot roof leaks or water damage, act fast to limit the mess:

• Place buckets under drips
• Cover holes with a tarp (duct tape won’t cut it in severe weather)
• Move valuables out of the way

This isn’t a permanent repair, but it helps prevent extensive damage while you wait for a professional roofing contractor.

Step 3: Call a Reputable Contractor for a Roof Inspection

Here’s where many homeowners slip up—they call their insurance companies before getting a pro to assess things. Bad move. Insurance adjusters work for the insurance policy, not you. Instead:

1. Schedule a roof inspection with a trusted roofing company (like us at Advanced Roofing Inc.).
2. Get a written report detailing all potential damage—even the stuff you can’t see.
3. Then loop in your insurance provider.

Why? A professional roofer knows how to spot wind damage, hail damage, and sneaky water leaks that an adjuster might miss. This report becomes your backup during the claims process.

Step 4: Understand Your Insurance Claim Process

Dealing with insurance companies can feel like pulling teeth. Here’s how to make it smoother:

• Review your insurance policy for storm damage coverage (not all water damage is included).
• Take photos/videos of everything—loose shingles, debris, even messed-up gutters.
• Submit your contractor’s inspection report with your claim.

Watch out: Some insurers push for cheap temporary repairs. Insist on permanent repairs if there’s severe damage—you don’t want recurring roof leaks next monsoon season.

Step 5: Decide: Repair or Replace?

Not all storm damage means you need a full roof replacement. Here’s how to tell:

• Minor damage (a few missing shingles): Simple roof repair might suffice.
• Extensive damage (sagging, major leaks): Replacement could be smarter long term.

A professional roofing contractor can explain your options—like whether your current roofing materials can handle another Illinois winter or if it’s time to upgrade.

Why Picking the Right Roofing Company Matters

Not all contractors handle storm damage roof repair the same way. Sketchy ones might:

• Push unnecessary minor repairs to charge more later
• Skip proper permits or cut corners on roofing materials
• Disappear after cashing your check

At Advanced Roofing Inc., we’ve helped hundreds of Illinois homeowners navigate post-storm roofing tips the right way—no games, just honest advice and quality work. We’ll:

• Explain the repair process clearly
• Help with insurance claims (we’ve seen every trick in the book)
• Use durable materials that stand up to Illinois’ severe weather

Don’t Wait—Storm Damage Gets Worse

Here’s the hard truth: Ignoring roof storm damage leads to bigger bills later. That “small leak” today can cause structural issues or mold next month.

If you’re in Illinois and your roof took a beating, let’s get it fixed before the next storm rolls in. We offer free inspections, and we’ll walk you through every step—from emergency roof repair to working with your insurance adjuster.

Ready to stop stressing? Contact Advanced Roofing Inc. today. We’ll make sure your roof—and your wallet—stay protected.