A hailstorm just rolled through your Calgary neighborhood. You heard the pounding on your roof. Now you see dents on your car and granules in your gutters. Is your roof damaged? What do you do next?

If you are searching for “hail damage roof repair Calgary,” you are likely worried, uncertain, and wondering whether to call insurance or a roofer first.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know:

• How to identify hail damage on your roof

• Whether to file an insurance claim

• The step-by-step claims process

• What to expect from the insurance adjuster

• How to choose a roofing contractor

• What happens after the claim is approved

Let us get started. The sooner you act, the better protected your home will be.

How to Identify Hail Damage on Your Roof

Not all hail damage is obvious from the ground. Here is what to look for.

From the ground (using binoculars or from a ladder safely):

• Missing granules — dark spots or bare fiberglass visible on shingles

• Bruising — soft, spongy spots on shingles (press gently if safe to access)

• Random damage pattern — hail damage is random, not in straight lines like wind damage

• Dented soft metal — check roof vents, flashing, and gutters for dents

• Granules in gutters — excessive granules in downspouts indicate shingle damage

From the attic (if safe to access):

• Light penetration — see daylight through the roof deck

• Water stains — dark spots on sheathing or rafters

• Moisture — damp insulation or wood

What hail damage looks like on different materials:

Important: Do not attempt to walk on your roof after a hailstorm. Shingles may be unstable or slippery. Leave inspection to professionals.

*See any of these signs? Don’t wait. Call (587) 777-5668 for a free inspection today.*

Should You File an Insurance Claim?

Not every hail-damaged roof requires a claim. Here is how to decide.

File a claim if:

• Damage is widespread across multiple slopes

• You have missing shingles or visible leaks

• Soft metal components (vents, flashing, gutters) are heavily dented

• Your roof is less than 15 years old (insurer may cover full replacement)

• Damage exceeds your deductible significantly

Consider not filing if:

• Damage is minor (few shingles with granule loss)

• Your roof is over 20 years old (insurer may depreciate heavily)

• Repair cost is close to or below your deductible

• You have filed multiple claims recently (risk of non-renewal)

The deductible factor: If your deductible is $1,000 and repair cost is $1,200, filing a claim may not be worth the potential premium increase. If repair cost is $10,000, a claim makes sense.

When in doubt, get a professional inspection first. We can help you estimate repair or replacement cost so you can decide whether to file.

How Long Do You Have to File a Hail Damage Claim?

Timing matters. Here are the critical deadlines.

Best practice: Report the claim as soon as you suspect damage. Delays can lead to denied claims.

The Insurance Claims Process — Step by Step

Filing a hail damage claim for the first time can feel overwhelming. Here is exactly what to expect.

Step 1: Document the damage

Before anything else, take photos. Lots of photos. Photograph:

• Your roof from multiple angles (use binoculars or drone if possible)

• Close-ups of damaged shingles, vents, flashing, gutters

• Dents on soft metal components

• Granules in gutters

• Any interior damage (water stains, leaks)

• Date and time of photos

Step 2: Get a professional inspection

Have a licensed roofing contractor inspect your roof BEFORE you file a claim. Why?

• You need to know if damage is significant enough to file

• A contractor can document damage thoroughly

• You will have an estimate to compare with insurance scope

We provide free hail damage inspections with detailed documentation you can share with your insurer.

Step 3: Contact your insurance company

Call your insurer to report the damage. Be prepared to provide:

• Date of the storm

• Description of damage

• Photos

• Your contractor’s inspection report

Step 4: Meet with the insurance adjuster

Your insurer will send an adjuster to inspect your roof. This usually happens within 1–3 weeks. You have the right to have your contractor present during the adjuster’s inspection.

Why have your contractor there: Adjusters sometimes miss damage. Your contractor can point out areas that need attention and ensure all damage is documented.

Step 5: Review the scope of work

The adjuster will provide a scope of work and estimate. Compare this with your contractor’s estimate.

If there are discrepancies, your contractor can negotiate with the adjuster to include missing items. This is normal and expected.

Step 6: Authorize repairs

Once the claim is approved and scope is agreed, work can begin. Your insurer will typically release funds in installments:

• First check: less deductible

• Second check: upon completion (if replacement cost policy)

Step 7: Complete repairs

Your contractor completes the work. Final inspection ensures everything is done properly. Final payment is made.

*We help homeowners navigate claims every day. Call us at (587) 777-5668 for a free inspection and help with your claim.*

What to Expect From the Insurance Adjuster

The adjuster works for the insurance company. Their job is to assess damage and determine coverage. Here is what happens.

During the inspection:

• Adjuster will walk the roof (or use drone) to assess damage

• They will measure roof size and note damaged areas

• They may take photos and mark shingles with chalk

• They will note the age of your roof and existing conditions

What adjusters look for:

• Random impact marks (hail)

• Widespread damage vs isolated

• Evidence of previous repairs or wear

• Age-related deterioration (which may not be covered)

Common issues:

• Adjuster may miss some damage (this is why your contractor should be present)

• Adjuster may claim damage is from “wear and tear” rather than hail

• Adjuster may depreciate based on roof age

If your claim is denied or underpaid: Your contractor can provide additional documentation and negotiate with the adjuster. If that fails, you can request a reinspection or escalate to a supervisor.

Hail Damage Repair Options — Repair or Replace?

Once your claim is approved, you need to decide whether to repair or replace.

Important: If your roof is older and shingles are discontinued, your insurer may approve full replacement even if damage is not widespread. Matching shingles is often required by policy.

If your roof is being replaced, you have a choice of materials. For help deciding between asphalt and metal, see our asphalt vs metal roofing comparison.

Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor for Hail Damage

Not all contractors are created equal. Here is how to choose one you can trust.

What to look for:

• Local experience — knows Calgary’s climate and insurance landscape

• Licensed and insured — WCB coverage and liability insurance

• Free inspections — should not charge to assess damage

• Claims assistance — will work with your adjuster and attend inspections

• Detailed estimates — line-item scopes that match insurance expectations

• Written warranty — workmanship warranty in addition to manufacturer warranty

Red flags:

• Door-knockers offering “free roof” if you sign over insurance claim

• Contractors who pressure you to file a claim without inspection

• No local address or references

• Requesting full payment upfront

• No license or insurance

Alpine Exteriors: We have served Calgary for 18 years. We offer free inspections, work with your adjuster, and provide detailed estimates. We never pressure you to file a claim — we give you honest advice.

When Repair Isn’t Enough — Full Replacement Options

If your roof requires full replacement, you have choices. Class 4 impact-resistant shingles or metal roofing offer better protection against future hailstorms.

Many homeowners choose to upgrade to Class 4 shingles or metal roofing when insurance is covering a claim. The extra cost out-of-pocket is often worth the peace of mind.

If you are considering a full replacement, visit our roof replacement services page to learn more.

Areas We Serve in Calgary

Alpine Exteriors provides hail damage inspections and repairs across all Calgary quadrants:

Northeast Calgary — including Marlborough, Monterey Park, Pineridge, Castleridge, Falconridge, Taradale, Saddle Ridge. See our dedicated page for roofing services in NE Calgary.

Northwest Calgary — including Arbour Lake, Tuscany, Royal Oak, Nolan Hill, Sage Hill, Evanston, Panorama Hills, Rocky Ridge, Citadel. Visit our NW Calgary contractor page for area-specific details.

Southeast Calgary — including McKenzie Towne, Auburn Bay, Mahogany, New Brighton, Cranston, Seton, Douglasdale, McKenzie Lake, Chaparral. This quadrant experiences the most frequent hail — learn more on our SE Calgary services page.

Southwest Calgary — including Altadore, Killarney, Glamorgan, Palliser, Oakridge, Cedarbrae, Lakeview, Glendale, Signal Hill, Springbank Hill. Check our SW Calgary contractor page for local information.

We also serve Airdrie, Cochrane, and Chestermere.

Questions Calgary Homeowners Ask About Hail Damage

How do I know if my roof has hail damage?

Signs include missing granules (dark spots), bruising (soft spots), dents on vents and flashing, and granules in gutters. A professional inspection is the best way to know for sure.

Should I file an insurance claim for hail damage?

If damage is widespread or your roof is less than 15 years old, filing likely makes sense. If damage is minor and your roof is older, consider repair costs vs deductible. We can help you decide.

Will my insurance premium increase if I file a claim?

Possibly. Premium increases depend on your insurer, claim history, and the amount paid. We recommend asking your insurer about potential impact before filing for minor damage.

What if my insurance adjuster misses damage?

This is common. Have your contractor present during the adjuster’s inspection to point out all damage. If damage is still missed, your contractor can provide additional documentation and request a reinspection.

How long do I have to file a claim after a hailstorm?

Most policies require reporting within 7–30 days. Repairs typically must be completed within 1 year. Check your policy for specific deadlines.

Can I choose my own roofing contractor?

Yes. You are not required to use your insurer’s preferred contractor. You have the right to choose any licensed, insured contractor you trust.

What if my roof is old and damaged by hail?

Insurers may depreciate based on roof age. If your roof is over 20 years old, you may receive actual cash value (depreciated) rather than replacement cost. In some cases, upgrading to a better material is worth the out-of-pocket difference.

Get Your Free Hail Damage Inspection

If a hailstorm has hit your Calgary neighborhood, do not wait. Undetected roof damage can lead to leaks, mold, and structural problems.

Alpine Exteriors provides free hail damage inspections for Calgary homeowners. We will:

• Inspect your roof safely and thoroughly

• Document all damage with photos

• Provide a detailed estimate

• Help you understand your insurance options

• Attend adjuster inspections if you file a claim

We have helped hundreds of Calgary homeowners navigate hail damage claims. We know the process. We know the adjusters. We know how to get the job done right.

Protect your home before the next storm. Call Alpine Exteriors at (587) 777-5668 for your free inspection.