Living in Colorado exposes residents to hail and unsettled, often changeable weather. Nationwide, everyone thinks of snow when Colorado is mentioned but it is also known for the devastating hail storms that pop up in the springtime. When a “Severe Thunderstorm Warning” beeps on your phone you know it can get serious. The protocol for this warning is the determination that a storm is capable of producing one-inch hail or, otherwise severe hail.
Colorado, Texas, Kansas, Nebraska, and South Dakota are the five states that experienced major hail events during 2019. Ranking hail damage between these states Colorado ranks second, this due to the fact that the front range is located in “Hail Alley.” Denver Metro area south to Colorado Springs, there are an average of 13 large hail events per year. Cities in the Front Range are targeted by severe hail because they are closest to the Rocky Mountains. The mountain range creates the prospect and inclination towards extreme drastic changes in weather.
Colorado Cities Targeted by Hail
The cities located in the Front Range that typically have the most severe weather are: Arvada-Aurora-Boulder -Centennial-Colorado Springs -Denver -Fort Collins-Greenwood Village-Littleton-Lone Tree-Longmont-Westminster. As you see, hail storms are an unfortunate part of life in areas of high elevation and are recognized for their often-devastating effects to structures of all kinds. It is dangerous to go out during any hail storm events, recalling the fact that baseball sized hail fell in Denver in 2017 resulting in $2.3 billion in total damages.
Hail and High Wind Go Hand in Hand
Hurricanes are common in the southern hemisphere, but hurricane-force winds can also blow through Colorado. The National Weather Service reports two main causes of high winds in Colorado. Both can create damaging winds down the slopes that can exceed 100 mph. These winds can easily down trees and do tremendous damage to your roof and shingles. So, if you live in one of the cities listed above, it is important to be on top of things and make sure that your shingles and home have been kept in proper condition. The home and roof is your first line of protection during severe weather events.
Call in A Professional
It’s agreed the most difficult part of diagnosing hail damage is realizing that there is more than meets the eye, with damage that is undetectable to the untrained homeowner. There is nothing like professional expert advice to determine the extent of hidden damage, so don’t try to access the damage on your own. Even minimal damage should not be ignored as it can cause roof leaks or mold problems in the future. One thing you can be sure of, if there are major dents on your car or glass, you most likely have roof damage as well.
Priority Restoration, Inc is ready to serve your needs with the promise that customers will be 100% satisfied. They never require deposits until there is material on the job and work has commenced. They always strive for perfection.
The State Of Colorado
Colorado protects their citizens with their Colorado Residential Roofing Law that affects contractual interactions between residential roofing contractors and property owners.
The Colorado Roofing Association developed a downloadable Residential Bill of Rights to inform residents about the law, new contract provisions and the penalties and protocol for reporting violations. They express a continued commitment is to promote the ethics, education, and image of the roofing industry throughout the State of Colorado. It is important to review this fact sheet.
** Directly quoted from their website: The CRA is dedicated to EDUCATING both our members and consumers regarding the new roofing law. CRA is not a consumer agency nor will we “police” the new law – although we do ask consumers to contact us if they have a dispute with a CRA member.
• Review SB38 Statute – Colorado Consumer Protection / Residential Roofing Bill (C.R.S 6-22-101 to 6-22-105)
• Review SB38 FACTSHEETS for the items to look for when selecting a roofing contractor
• GET A CRA “NO ROOFING SOLICITORS” DOOR CARD. Print and post on your front door
• NOTE: Asphalt Shingles NOT Recyclable
They advise all homeowners to be sure be educated on the new requirements before selecting a contractor for your Denver roof repair needs. They provide tools that can ensure homeowners select a trusted roofer.
An Educated Choice
First call your insurance company to make yourself aware of the claims process. In order to make an educated choice for a roofing contractor get a professional second and third opinion. You want to be sure to use a trusted Denver based roofing company when selecting someone to work on your home. If you received low bids, it can often mean someone is cutting corners to make a profit. Price should not be the sole determining factor when you are choosing a contractor. Determine your needs, don’t be pressured. If you make a smart decision you will be sure to be pleased with your investment. And remember to check out Revia Hail Resistant Shingles on sale through Priority Restoration, Inc.
Focus next on the agreement that should clearly state materials to be used and labor to be performed. Outline terms of payment and who is responsible for permits. As of 6/6/2012, contracts in Colorado MUST HAVE a price clearly stated. Never sign a contract with blanks. Be sure everything you have agreed to is in writing, including payment agreements and warranty. When all is said and done, you’ll be glad you went the extra mile to choose your professional roofing contractor carefully.