Boise Homeowner’s Guide to Storm-Damage Roofing: What to Check After Wind & Hail (and When to Call a Pro)
Protect your roof, your interior, and your insurance claim—starting with the first 24 hours
In Boise and across the Treasure Valley, a single wind burst or hail cell can loosen shingles, dent vents, crack flashing, and quietly open pathways for water. The tricky part: storm damage doesn’t always look dramatic from the ground, and small issues can turn into leaks weeks later. This guide walks through what to look for, what not to do, and how a local roofing contractor like Team Construction can help you document damage and plan repairs with less stress.
Why storm damage in Boise is easy to miss
Wind and hail damage often shows up first in “weak points”—ridge caps, roof-to-wall transitions, pipe boots, valleys, and flashing around chimneys and skylights. Even if your roof doesn’t leak immediately, damage can reduce the roof’s remaining lifespan and make it more vulnerable during the next storm.
If you’re a homeowner, landlord, or property manager, your goals after a storm are simple: (1) prevent water intrusion, (2) document what happened, and (3) get an expert opinion before you approve repairs or start an insurance process.
What wind and hail typically damage on a roof
Wind damage
Wind can lift shingle edges, break adhesive seals, and pull fasteners—especially along ridges and eaves. Once the seal is compromised, shingles can flap, crease, or detach in later gusts. Manufacturers also rate shingles for wind performance using standardized tests (for example, ASTM wind classifications). ( owenscorning.com )
Hail damage
Hail can bruise asphalt shingles (granule loss and softened spots), crack tiles, dent metal vents, and damage flashing. Some homeowners choose impact-resistant shingles rated under UL 2218, where “Class 4” is the highest rating used for many asphalt products. ( owenscorning.com )
Quick triage: “Monitor,” “Schedule inspection,” or “Act now”
| What you notice | What it could mean | Best next step |
|---|---|---|
| A few shingles look “wavy,” lifted, or misaligned | Seal strip broken; future blow-offs more likely | Schedule inspection within 1–2 weeks (sooner if more wind is forecast) |
| Shingles missing, exposed underlayment, or bare spots | Active water-entry risk | Act now : temporary protection + professional repair |
| Dents on vents, gutters, downspouts, soft metals | Likely hail impacts; roof may also be affected | Schedule inspection and document photos |
| Water spots on ceilings, bubbling paint, damp attic insulation | Leak already occurring | Act now : mitigation, receipts, and a roofer visit |
| No obvious damage from the ground, but big hail/wind in your neighborhood | Hidden bruising, flashing issues, or loosened seals | Schedule inspection for peace of mind and documentation |
Safe, smart documentation that helps (especially for claims)
Documentation is helpful whether you file a claim or not. If you do end up working with your insurance company, Idaho’s Department of Insurance encourages consumers to ask questions throughout the claim process and keep records and receipts related to mitigation. ( doi.idaho.gov )
Do this (from the ground)
Avoid this
Step-by-step: what to do after a Boise wind or hail storm
1) Do a quick safety check around the home
Look for downed lines, broken branches, loose metal, or debris. Secure what you can safely. Idaho’s Department of Insurance also recommends practical wind-loss prevention steps like bringing in/anchoring outdoor items and trimming risky limbs over time. ( doi.idaho.gov )
2) Look for “indicator damage”
Dented soft metals and damaged window screens can suggest hail impacts even when shingles look okay from the yard. If you find indicators, a professional roof inspection is worth scheduling.
3) Check your attic (if accessible)
Use a flashlight and look for wet decking, dark staining, or damp insulation. This helps confirm whether you’re dealing with cosmetic exterior damage or an active leak.
4) Mitigate water entry (keep receipts)
If water is getting in, place buckets, move valuables, and consider temporary covering only if it can be done safely. Keep receipts for mitigation-related expenses—this is commonly recommended for claims reimbursement review. ( doi.idaho.gov )
5) Book a professional inspection (and ask for clear documentation)
A qualified roofing contractor can safely inspect slopes, valleys, flashings, vents, and ridge caps—then provide photos and a repair plan. If you need insurance assistance, Team Construction can also help you understand what documentation is useful for the process.
Helpful pages: Wind & hail damage inspections | Roof insurance claim help | Roof repair in Boise
Did you know?
Impact resistance and wind resistance are different ratings. A roof can be highly impact-resistant (hail) without automatically being the highest wind-rated product—these are measured with different standards. ( owenscorning.com )
Some “hail-proof” claims are marketing shorthand. Even Class 4 shingles are designed to reduce damage—not guarantee zero damage in every storm. The real-world outcome depends on hail size, wind, roof age, ventilation, and installation quality. ( owenscorning.com )
Local Boise angle: what makes Treasure Valley roofs unique
Boise homes often see a mix of hot summer sun, winter freeze-thaw cycles, and intermittent wind events. That combination can age seal strips, dry out flashings, and make older shingles less forgiving when hail hits. If your property is in Boise, Meridian, or Eagle and you’ve had multiple storms over the last few seasons, a “looks fine” roof can still be one storm away from a leak.
If you’re planning an exterior upgrade anyway, it’s also a good time to evaluate higher-performance shingle options (such as UL 2218-rated impact-resistant systems) and confirm you’re selecting products appropriate for your roof design and local code requirements. ( owenscorning.com )
Also consider related exterior weak points
Wind-driven rain can expose issues beyond shingles—like aging siding seams, failing window caulk, or fascia/gutter problems. If you’re seeing drafts, water staining near windows, or warped siding after a storm, it may be worth bundling an exterior inspection.
Explore: Siding installation & repair | Window repair & replacement | Insurance restoration services
Get a free roof inspection in Boise and the Treasure Valley
If you suspect wind or hail damage, Team Construction can assess your roof, document findings, and explain repair options clearly—whether you’re paying out of pocket or working through an insurance claim.
FAQ: Storm-damage roof repair in Boise
How soon should I get my roof inspected after hail or high winds?
If you have missing shingles, interior leaks, or visible damage, schedule immediately. If the roof “looks okay” but you had significant hail or strong winds nearby, an inspection within 1–2 weeks is a practical window for documentation and early repairs before the next weather system.
Should I call insurance first or call a roofing contractor first?
Many homeowners start by getting a professional inspection and photos so they understand what they’re dealing with. If you choose to file a claim, Idaho’s Department of Insurance recommends staying organized, asking questions, and keeping documentation and receipts tied to mitigation. ( doi.idaho.gov )
What are signs of hail damage I can see without climbing on the roof?
Look for dents on roof vents, gutters, and downspouts; damaged window screens; granules collecting at downspout exits; and shingle pieces in the yard. These “indicator” signs often justify a professional inspection.
Do impact-resistant shingles guarantee I won’t have hail damage?
No material can promise zero damage in every storm. Impact-resistant shingles (often referenced as UL 2218 Class 4) are designed to better withstand impacts and reduce cracking compared to standard shingles. ( owenscorning.com )
Can you help with both repair work and the insurance process?
Team Construction provides storm-damage inspections, repair/replacement, and claim assistance. If you’re dealing with wind or hail damage in Boise, Meridian, or Eagle, start with a free inspection and clear documentation.
Glossary (quick definitions)
Flashing: Sheet metal (or similar material) installed at transitions (chimneys, walls, valleys) to prevent water intrusion.
Pipe boot: A flashing component that seals around plumbing vents that penetrate the roof.
Seal strip: The adhesive strip that bonds shingles together; wind can break this bond.
UL 2218 Class 4: A common impact-resistance rating used for some roofing products; Class 4 is the highest rating in this standard. ( owenscorning.com )
Mitigation: Temporary steps to prevent additional damage (like containing leaks). Keep receipts for potential claim review. ( doi.idaho.gov )
Looking for a local roofing contractor in Boise? Visit Team Construction to learn about residential and commercial roofing options, inspections, and repair services.