August 12, 2025
Living in Illinois means dealing with some of the toughest weather Mother Nature can throw at you — from spring hailstorms to summer wind gusts and ice in the winter. These storms don’t just make a mess; they can quietly cause damage to your roof, siding, gutters, skylights, and soffit/fascia that only gets worse over time.
What many homeowners don’t realize is that much of this damage is covered by insurance if you know how to document it, file properly, and have the right contractor in your corner.
Roof Damage from Hail and Wind
Hail can bruise shingles, crack tiles, and dent flashing. High winds can lift or tear shingles completely off. Both are considered functional damage and can compromise your home’s ability to shed water.
Siding Damage: Cracks, Holes, and Dents
Whether it’s hail leaving golf-ball-sized dents or wind-driven debris causing cracks, siding damage is more than cosmetic — it can let moisture in, leading to mold and rot.
Gutter System Damage
Hail can dent gutters, while wind can pull entire sections loose. If your drainage system isn’t functioning, you risk foundation problems.
Skylight Cracks or Leaks
Storms can break seals, shatter glass, or cause flashing failure around skylights, all of which lead to interior leaks.
Soffit and Fascia Damage
High winds often tear off soffit panels and fascia boards, leaving roof edges exposed to pests and weather.
Functional vs. Cosmetic Damage — Why It Matters
Insurance companies typically cover functional damage — anything that impacts performance — but not purely cosmetic scuffs. The right documentation and contractor input can make the difference in proving functional impairment.
Step 1 – Schedule a Professional Storm Damage Inspection
Call a trusted local contractor like UV Exteriors first. We know what damage qualifies and how to find it — even the signs most adjusters miss.
Step 2 – Document Everything Before Calling Insurance
Photos, videos, and written notes matter. We handle this for our customers so nothing gets overlooked.
Step 3 – File Your Claim and Schedule the Adjuster Meeting
Once your claim is filed, your insurance will assign an adjuster.
Step 4 – Have Your Contractor Meet the Adjuster
We’re there on-site to point out all the damage and make sure it’s included in the scope.
Step 5 – Approval, Materials Selection, and Replacement
Once approved, we walk you through selecting materials and scheduling your replacement.
Calling a contractor first puts you in control of the process.
In Illinois, storms are more than just a passing inconvenience—they’re a yearly reality. Hail in the spring, heavy winds in the summer, and the occasional ice storm in the winter can all take a toll on your home’s exterior. What may look like a minor dent or a few missing shingles can actually compromise your roof, siding, gutters, skylights, and soffit/fascia. The good news? Much of this damage can be covered by your homeowner’s insurance if you know the right steps to take.
After severe weather, it’s common for homeowners to overlook issues until they turn into leaks, drafts, or water damage. That’s why having a professional inspection is essential. At UV Exteriors, we’ve seen everything from hail-pitted shingles to wind-torn siding, and we know exactly what qualifies for a full insurance-backed replacement.
When it comes to storm damage, the most common issues we see include bruised shingles that no longer shed water properly, cracked or punctured siding panels, dented or detached gutters, leaking or shattered skylights, and wind-torn soffit and fascia. These aren’t just cosmetic concerns—they directly impact the performance and protection of your home. And that distinction matters because insurance companies typically only cover functional damage. Clear, professional documentation can make the difference between an approved claim and a denial.
If you suspect your home has been hit by hail or wind, the first step is to schedule a professional storm damage inspection. This should happen before you ever call your insurance company. Why? Because your contractor will thoroughly document every issue with photos, videos, and measurements to ensure nothing gets missed. Once your claim is filed, we meet the adjuster on-site to walk through the damage together and make sure the full scope is included.
The process itself is straightforward but must be done correctly. We start with the inspection and documentation, then assist you in filing your claim. When the adjuster visit is scheduled, we’re there to advocate for you. Once the claim is approved, we help you select your replacement materials and schedule the work, managing permits, code requirements, and cleanup along the way.
Unfortunately, many homeowners make costly mistakes during this process—waiting too long to file, relying solely on the insurance adjuster’s opinion, or failing to include all storm-affected components in their claim. We’ve even seen cases where gutters, skylights, or fascia were left out entirely, forcing the homeowner to pay out of pocket later. Working with a contractor who knows the insurance process inside and out can prevent these headaches.
Illinois storms are unique in their frequency and severity, especially in the Northwest Suburbs. State building codes also work in your favor—if repairs require code upgrades like ice & water shield or additional ventilation, your insurance company must cover them. This is another reason to have a knowledgeable contractor in your corner.
Illinois sees some of the country’s most damaging hail, especially in the northwest suburbs. Wind storms can produce gusts exceeding 60 mph, strong enough to tear off roofing and siding.
Under Illinois law, insurance companies must honor repairs that meet current building codes. That means if your code requires ice & water shield, proper ventilation, or upgraded flashing, it must be included in your payout.
When storms hit, we’re the local experts who know how to fight for your claim and deliver top-notch workmanship.
Don’t wait until small issues turn into major repairs. Call (847) 474-1702 or visit UVExteriors.com to schedule your free inspection today.
We proudly serve Schaumburg, Elgin, Barrington, Naperville, and surrounding Northwest Suburbs.
FAQ
Do I need to pay my deductible for my roof or siding?
Yes. Illinois law requires you to pay your deductible on any covered claim—it’s illegal for a contractor to waive it. Once it’s paid, your insurance company covers the rest of the approved cost.
How long do I have to file an insurance claim for storm damage?
Typically 1 year from the date of the storm, but filing sooner is always better.
Will insurance cover both my roof and siding if they’re damaged in the same storm?
Yes. If both have qualifying damage, they can be replaced under a single claim.
Do I have to use the contractor my insurance company recommends?
No. You can choose any licensed contractor you trust.
What if my claim is denied?
We can help you request a reinspection and submit additional documentation—many denials are overturned this way.
Does the deductible go to insurance or the contractor?
The deductible is paid to the contractor as part of the total project cost. The insurance company subtracts your deductible from their payout, and you cover that portion directly with your contractor.
