Living in the Joplin area, we are no strangers to the unpredictable nature of the “4 State Area” weather. While we appreciate the beauty of the Ozarks, the spring and summer months often bring intense storms that can leave a path of destruction in their wake. Among the most common—and often most overlooked—forms of property damage is hail. Because hail damage isn’t always as obvious as a fallen tree or a missing shingle, many homeowners in Southwest Missouri and Northeast Oklahoma wait too long to file a claim, leading to costly leaks and structural issues down the road.
At DeGraff Construction, we believe that “The DeGraff Difference” starts with education. Protecting your family begins with a sturdy roof, and understanding how to navigate the insurance process after a hailstorm is essential for maintaining your home’s integrity and value.
Identifying the Subtle Signs of Hail Damage
One of the biggest misconceptions is that if your roof isn’t leaking, it isn’t damaged. Hail impact on asphalt shingles often causes “bruising”—soft spots where the underlying mat has been fractured. While these spots might look like nothing more than a small dark circle from the ground, they represent a significant compromise in the shingle’s ability to shed water. Over time, the sun’s UV rays will cause the protective granules around these bruises to slough off, exposing the volatile asphalt to the elements and drastically shortening the lifespan of your roof.
Beyond the shingles themselves, there are other “collateral” signs that a storm has caused damage. If you notice dents in your gutters, downspouts, or the soft metal vents on your roof, it is a near-certainty that your shingles took a hit as well. Even damage to your window screens or siding can serve as evidence for an insurance adjuster that the storm was severe enough to warrant a full roof replacement.
Why a Professional Inspection Should Be Your First Step
Many homeowners call their insurance company the moment the clouds clear, but we recommend a different approach. Before you file a formal claim, it is incredibly beneficial to have a GAF Certified contractor like DeGraff Construction perform a thorough, no-obligation inspection. Insurance adjusters are trained to look for damage, but they may miss the subtle signs that a seasoned roofing professional identifies daily.
When you have a professional estimate in hand before the adjuster arrives, you are in a much stronger position. We can meet with your adjuster during their visit to ensure that every point of impact is documented. This collaboration often makes the difference between a partial repair and a full roof replacement. As a locally owned company with American pride, we understand the specific requirements of Missouri insurance policies and can help provide the detailed documentation your carrier needs to process your claim efficiently.
Navigating the Claims Process with Confidence
The insurance process can feel overwhelming, but it is a service you pay for to protect your greatest investment. Once damage is confirmed, your insurer will typically provide a “scope of work” that outlines what they are willing to cover. This is where our expertise becomes invaluable. We review the scope to ensure that the materials and labor costs reflect the current market in Joplin and that the proposed repairs meet the high standards of a GAF-backed system.
If your roof is older or has suffered repeated strikes, a total replacement is often the most cost-effective solution for long-term protection. At DeGraff Construction, we don’t just “fix” roofs; we provide comprehensive solutions that shelter your loved ones. From residential shingles to custom metal roofing that can withstand winds up to 140 mph, we ensure your home is ready for whatever the 4 State Area throws at it next.
Don’t wait for a leak to tell you your roof is damaged. If a storm has recently passed through the Joplin area, let us provide you with the peace of mind you deserve. Contact DeGraff Construction today for a free consultation and estimate. Whether you need a simple repair or a full insurance-backed replacement, we are here to guide you every step of the way.