Storm and Hail Damage in Longview

Hail and Storm Damage East TX

Storm Damage Tips for Longview Your Roof

​If you are a homeowner in Longview Texas, then you know that tornadoes, hurricanes, hails storms and severe weather are always a possibility. But rather than live in fear or doubt, you can take some proactive measures to prepare your home in the event of high winds and heavy rains.

​At the top (pardon the pun) of the priority list should be your roof. Since the roof on your residential or commercial property is the one component that provides the most protection, then knowing what to do before and after a storm could prevent damage or costly roof repairs. Although no roofing system provides 100% defense from a tornado, you can have some peace of mind if you are prepared for that moment when it happens.

​Everything Begins With Roof Inspection

​The first step you can take in securing your property is to know the current condition of your roof. If it’s been a few years since you’ve had an assessment of your from a roofing contractor in Texas then now is as good a time as any. A complete and accurate Longview roof inspection reveals any damage or weaknesses in every part of your roof. Some of the main items would include:

  • Asphalt Shingles (or other roofing material)
  • Wood Decking
  • The Internal Framework and Condition of the Wood
  • Ventilation Going in and Coming Out
  • The Entire Gutter System including Soffits and Fascias.
  • All Metal Such as Flashing
  • The Chimney Area
  • The Attic.

All leaks will be detected. From there a certified roofing contractor in Longview will know what course you need to take to secure your roof. Sometimes roof damage has less to do with the severity of the weather as much as it does with the condition of the roof. The best policy is not taking chances.

​Post Damage Preparation

​Although you can’t predict the weather, you can take some practical steps to making sure you are ready when major storms hit you property. By taking aggressive measures, you will be able to handle any roof damage in a more effective manner. Below is a shortlist of preparations you can make:

  • Consult with your insurance agent and learn the details of your insurance coverage. Find out what your insurance covers and the exact amount.
  • Locate a reputable residential or commercial roofing contractor in Longview. A professional roofing company will be properly licensed and certified in residential roof repair.
  • Secure all relevant house documents. Items may include blueprints, mortgage agreements, home insurance, and other related documents. Keep them in a storm and fire proof safe.
  • Have a plan of action for what you will do immediately after your roof is damaged. Knowing what you will do, where you will go and other details will keep you calm during a cringe moment.
  • Have a list of all relevant phone numbers. Emergency agencies, family, friends, work, insurance, and your construction company, FEMA, and emergency food and shelter checkpoints.
  • Have a safety storage unit filled with food, weatherproof clothing, blankets, and all other supplies if you can stay in your home.

​Property Safety

​A practical preventative measure that you can take is to secure the area around the outside of your property. For instance, some trees may need trimming and branches cut, others will need to be completely removed. Inspect all structures and small buildings around for the possibility of flying debris. Clean up your yard and store all tools and other items in a safe storage unit. A clean yard will minimize impact and destruction to your roof.

​Documentation

​Once roof damage has occurred, the next few steps you take will be the most important. This begins by documenting the damage as soon as possible. Log the date and time the storm happened. Provide any photo or video footage if possible. As safety allows, inspect your home and take note of all damage both inside and out. Be specific.

The first person you should call is a Longview roofing contractor to come out and assess the damage. This gives you credibility and leverage when speaking with an insurance adjuster (who will probably be the next person). Allow the contractor and the adjuster to go over the damage together so that the contractor can confirm that the damage was storm-related.

Taking these steps will make your transition from damage to restoration hassle-free. Remember, there are other measures you will take with your roofing company and your insurance agent. Taking the above precautions, however, puts you ahead of the game.

​FAQ’s You Should Ask a Roofing Contractor

​Whether you’re installing a brand new roof, repairing your current roof, or looking to launch a roof replacement, there’s something you have to remember:

You’re getting ready to invest in your home and spend money.

One of the most painful mistakes homeowners make is hiring cheap labor and purchasing cheap products, yet expecting top-tier results. While saving money is indeed a noble pursuit, the most important item on your list should be to find a reputable residential roofing contractor Texas in who is going to perform the job with integrity, honesty, and professionalism

Texas state requires a roofer be licensed. Research the code requirements in Texas. Only work with those who are licensed, so you have some accountability in case things go wrong. Be sure the license is up to date.

There’s a difference between licensing and certification. For instance, a contractor may be licensed in the state of Texas, but their certification may only be in residential roofing (as opposed to commercial roofing). Make sure the contractor is certified to perform the particular job.

When you take a chance with construction on your property and an employee becomes injured, you might find yourself forking over thousands of dollars to pay for medical bills. To protect yourself, make sure the company you hire insures each worker.

Liability insurance covers your property. When it comes to insurance, don’t take the roofer’s word for it. Ask to see an insurance certificate. This certificate will list your name and address as an additional insured, so if something happens on the job your property is covered.

If the old shingles are pulled up, you will never know if you have soft spots or rotten wood beneath the current shingles. Don’t let a roofer place a new roof on your house until they have taken up the old roof.

If you choose to deal with a company not local to your area, you may not be able to get the company back to fix any potential problems in the future.

Today’s dimensional style shingles cost the same price as the older style shingles and also last longer. Homeowners should get at least a 25-year warranty.

Agreeing to a contract without a detailed assessment can cause problems in the long run. Be sure, before signing a contract, you have a detailed estimate for the job.

This is a no-brainer. Although there are honest contractors, you should never take them at their word. Get a minimum of three references and do some serious follow-up. Ask detailed questions and get samples.

About Longview Texas

Longview is a large, metropolitan city in east Texas. Located in Gregg County, Longview is about 127 miles southeast of Dallas. Longview is the forty-fifth largest city in the state of Texas. Known for its numerous historical landmarks and traditional Texas appeal, the city’s motto is fittingly known as, “Real East Texas.” For more information about the city, click here.

  • Population: approximately 82,000
  • Longitude/latitude: 32°30’33”N 94°45’14”W
  • Zip codes: 75601-75606
  • S. Highway 80 runs east-west through the city, while U.S. Highway 259 cuts through the eastern side of town.
  • The best place to stay in Longview is the Staybridge Suites Longview, a casual 4-star hotel located on North Fourth Street.
  • The East Texas Regional Airport, located at 269 Terminal Circle, is the nearest regional airport in Longview. The nearest international airport is the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, located at 2400 Aviation Drive about 140 miles west of Longview.

Longview is considered the hub of East Texas outdoor recreation and leisure travel. The city is well-known for its festivals, fine dining, and historic downtown.

Top 5 Things to Do in Longview

  • For family fun, Texans enjoy taking their children to the Longview World of Wonders, a creative children’s museum located on East Tyler Street.
  • The Longview Museum of Fine Arts is also located on East Tyler Street and features multiple exhibits of regional contemporary artists.
  • The Gregg County Historical Museum, located on North Fredonia Street, is a local museum dedicated to the history of Longview.
  • Lear Park is a sprawling park with athletic fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas on HG Mosley Parkway.
  • The Longview Mall is the best shopping center in the city. It is located at 3500 McCann Road.

Great Texas Balloon Race

Longview is known as the Balloon Capital of Texas due to its annual Great Texas Balloon Race. The race is a world-class event attracting the best competitive pilots from around the world. The event began in 1977 and has been a Longview staple ever since. Families enjoy a sky-full of over 80 hot air balloons, live concerts, numerous vendors, and more.

Notable Residents

  • Forest Whitaker, who is a famous American actor, director and producer
  • George B. Turner, who was a United States Army soldier and recipient of the Medal of Honor for his actions in World War II
  • Miranda Lambert, who is an American country music singer and songwriter

City Facts

  • Longview is located in the country of the United States of America.
  • Longview is in the state of Texas, which is normally shortened to TX.
  • Longview is located in Gregg County; it is also the county seat.
  • Established in the in 1870s, Longview is a Council-Manager type of government.

The current mayor of Longview is Andy Mack.

Other Interesting Facts

  • Longview is located just north of the Sabine River.
  • The city of Longview is home to three major universities: LeTourneau University, Kilgore College, and the University of Texas at Tyler, Longview University Center.
  • Longview is a great golfing destination with country clubs like Pinecrest on Club Drive and The Challenge on Oak Forest Country Club Road.

Nearby Suburbs

Longview is bounded by Loop 281 to the east, East George Richey Road to the north, and Interstate 20 to the south.

  • Judson is just north of Longview
  • Hallsville is to the east
  • Lakeport is located to the south
  • Gladewater is to the west