When severe weather moves into Northwest Arkansas, homeowners know it can bring more than just thunder and lightning. Our region sees its fair share of hail, high winds, and heavy rains each year, and your roof is often the first line of defense. While storms can be frightening in the moment, the real damage often reveals itself afterward, when hail impacts and wind-driven rain compromise the strength of your roofing system.
In this article, we’ll explore how hail and storms affect roofs in Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, and Bentonville, what you should do if you suspect damage, and why hiring a local roofing company like FES Roofing is the best way to protect your home and investment.
How Severe Weather Affects Your Roof
Northwest Arkansas experiences a variety of storm patterns throughout the year. Summer thunderstorms bring heavy rain and hail, spring and fall storms can include tornado activity, and winter can even bring ice storms that weigh down your roof. Each type of severe weather leaves its own mark.
- Hail Damage: Hailstones as small as a quarter can bruise asphalt shingles, loosen protective granules, and crack flashing or vents. While the damage may not cause immediate leaks, it weakens your roof’s defense and shortens its lifespan.
- Wind Damage: Strong winds can lift shingles, break sealant bonds, and expose underlayment. Once this happens, rainwater can infiltrate and lead to leaks inside your home.
- Heavy Rain: Intense downpours test your roof’s drainage system. If shingles or flashing are already compromised, rainwater can enter quickly, often unnoticed until interior stains or mold develop.
- Ice and Snow: Although less common, ice accumulation can create ice dams that block proper water flow, forcing melting snow back under shingles and into your attic.
Signs of Hail and Storm Damage
After severe weather passes, homeowners should know what to look for before calling a professional. From the ground, some common indicators include:
- Missing, torn, or curled shingles
- Large numbers of granules washed into gutters or onto driveways
- Dented gutters, downspouts, or siding
- Damaged roof vents, cupolas, or flashing
- Water spots or stains on ceilings and walls inside the home
It’s important to note that not all damage is visible from the ground. That’s why a professional inspection is the safest and most accurate way to determine if your roof has been compromised.
Why a Local Roofing Company is Your Best Choice
When severe weather hits, it’s not unusual to see “storm chaser” roofing companies arrive in Northwest Arkansas, offering quick repairs and making big promises. While tempting, trusting an out-of-town crew often leads to poor workmanship and no accountability once they leave the area.
Here’s why choosing a local roofer like FES Roofing makes all the difference:
- We Know Arkansas Weather
Local roofing companies understand the specific challenges that hail, wind, and humidity create for roofs in our region. This allows us to recommend the best materials and repair techniques for long-lasting results.
- We’re Here Before and After the Storm
Unlike out-of-town contractors, FES Roofing is part of the community. We live here, work here, and will be here months and years after the storm passes. That means if you need warranty service or additional help, you can count on us.
- Insurance Claim Expertise
Storm damage often leads to filing an insurance claim. Our team has extensive experience working with adjusters in Arkansas. We’ll help document the damage, meet with your adjuster, and guide you through the process to ensure your claim is filed correctly and you get the coverage you deserve.
- Commitment to Quality and Integrity
At FES Roofing, our reputation is built on honesty, professionalism, and workmanship that lasts. We don’t cut corners, and we don’t disappear after the job is done. That’s why families across NWA trust us with their homes.
The Insurance Process: What You Need to Know
If your roof sustains hail or storm damage, insurance is often the first thing on your mind. Here are the key steps:
- Schedule a Professional Inspection – Call a local roofer like FES Roofing to assess your roof and document the damage.
- File a Claim Promptly – Insurance companies have deadlines for storm-related claims. Don’t wait too long.
- Meet with Your Adjuster – Have your roofer present during the inspection to ensure nothing is missed.
- Review Your Estimate – Compare your insurance estimate with the roofer’s assessment. We’ll make sure it covers the full scope of work.
- Complete Repairs or Replacement – Once approved, we’ll restore your roof with high-quality materials designed to withstand Arkansas weather.
Why Timing Matters
Storm damage isn’t always immediately obvious. Hail dents, lifted shingles, and small punctures may not leak right away but can worsen over time. Waiting too long to address storm damage can lead to:
- Interior water leaks and mold growth
- Structural damage to your attic or walls
- Higher repair costs down the road
- Potential denial of insurance coverage due to delays
Acting quickly after a storm ensures your home remains protected and helps secure your insurance benefits.
Real Example: Storm Damage Repair in NWA
Recently, FES Roofing was called to a home in Northwest Arkansas where a hailstorm had damaged not only shingles but also the home’s roof cupola vent. Our team safely removed the damaged vent and installed a durable replacement that restored proper ventilation and prevented future leaks. This project is a reminder that storm damage isn’t limited to shingles, it can affect the entire roofing system.
How FES Roofing Can Help You
When storms hit Northwest Arkansas, FES Roofing is here to make recovery simple and stress-free. We offer:
- Free storm damage inspections
- Honest, no-obligation assessments
- Assistance with the insurance claim process
- High-quality repairs and replacements using durable materials
- A local team you can trust long after the storm passes
Conclusion
Severe weather and hail are part of life in Northwest Arkansas, but they don’t have to leave your home unprotected. By choosing a trusted local roofing company like FES Roofing, you gain more than just a contractor, you gain a partner dedicated to your peace of mind.
Don’t wait until the next storm strikes or a small leak becomes a major problem. Schedule your free inspection today and let us help protect what matters most: your home and family.
📞 Call FES Roofing at (479) 275-5332 to schedule your free roof inspection.
