How to spot hail and wind damage on your roof, what to do after a storm, and how to navigate the insurance claim process in Utah without getting burned.

Utah hail doesn't hit often, but when a spring or summer storm rolls across the Wasatch Front it can damage hundreds of roofs in a single afternoon. Here's how to tell if your roof was hit, what to do next, and how to handle the insurance process without getting burned.

How Hail Damages a Roof

Hail bruises asphalt shingles, knocking granules loose and cracking the mat underneath. The damage often isn't visible from the ground, but over the next few years those spots break down faster and start to leak. Wind can also lift and crease shingles, breaking the seal that keeps water out.

Signs of Hail or Wind Damage

• Dents on gutters, downspouts, window wraps or the AC unit
• Heavy granule buildup in gutters or at downspout outlets
• Dark, circular spots on shingles where granules are missing
• Missing, lifted or creased shingles after high winds
• New water stains on ceilings or in the attic

Canyon winds in Davis County (Farmington, Centerville, Bountiful, Kaysville) are notorious for tearing shingles, while hail tends to track across Salt Lake, Utah and Weber counties during summer thunderstorms.

What to Do After a Storm

1. Stay off the roof. Wet or damaged roofs are dangerous.
2. Document everything from the ground. Photograph dented gutters, downspouts, fences, cars and any interior water stains, with dates.
3. Prevent further damage. If water is coming in, place buckets and call a roofer for an emergency tarp.
4. Get a professional inspection. A roof inspection confirms whether there's real storm damage before you file.
5. Check your policy and report promptly. Most policies have time limits and deductible rules. Read yours and contact your insurer soon after the storm.

How the Insurance Claim Process Works

After you file, your insurer sends an adjuster to inspect the roof. It helps to have your roofer present for that meeting so damage isn't missed. If the claim is approved, you'll typically receive an initial payment, pay your deductible, and the remaining depreciation is released after the work is completed (this depends on your policy type).

Watch Out for Storm Chasers

After big hail events, out-of-state crews flood neighborhoods in West Jordan, Layton, Ogden and Orem. Protect yourself:

• Hire a local, licensed and insured Utah contractor
• Never sign a contract on the doorstep the same day
• Be wary of anyone offering to "cover" or waive your deductible
• Ask for a written warranty and local references

Repair or Replace?

Minor wind damage can often be handled with roof repair. Widespread hail bruising usually means a full roof replacement. Either way, our storm and hail damage repair team will walk you through it.

Think Your Roof Took a Hit?

Best Systems Roofing serves homeowners from Provo and Orem to Ogden and every city in between. Request a free roof estimate or call 801-747-9040 and we'll schedule a visit.

We handle storm damage across Ogden, Layton, Bountiful, West Jordan, Salt Lake City and Orem.

This article is general information, not legal or insurance advice. Coverage and deadlines vary by policy, so confirm details with your insurance provider.