Summer in Montana is a beautiful thing—until a thunderstorm blows through, rattles your gutters, and pelts your shingles with hail the size of marbles (or worse). If you’re like most homeowners, your first instinct is to check for broken branches, not broken shingles. But here’s the truth: your roof may have taken a hit, even if everything looks fine from the ground.
At Kirkness Roofing, we want you to think of your roof like your emergency fund. You don’t always see it, but it protects everything that matters. That’s why a Montana roof inspection after storms isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Especially if you’re hoping to avoid surprise costs down the line.
Let’s walk through:
- What summer storms can do to your roof
- Signs of damage you shouldn’t ignore
- Why early inspections save time, money, and insurance headaches
- How Montana homeowners recover with confidence
What Summer Storms Do to Your Roof—And Why It Matters
Montana storms hit hard and fast. One minute it’s sunny. The next? You’re watching golf ball-sized hail bounce off your deck while the wind flips your neighbor’s patio furniture.
And your roof? It’s taking the brunt of it. Even if it seems fine, here’s what might be happening up there.
The Real Impact of Summer Storms
- Hail: Bruises shingles and knocks off protective granules—making your roof more vulnerable to leaks
- High Winds: Lift shingles, damage flashing, and loosen gutters
- Heavy Rain: Exploits even the tiniest weak spots in your underlayment
- Debris: Downed branches can puncture or crack roofing materials
According to the National Weather Service in Billings, July is one of the most active months for severe storm warnings in the state. If you’ve experienced hail or strong winds recently, don’t assume you’re in the clear.
How to Spot Montana Summer Storm Roof Damage
You don’t need to climb on the roof (please don’t)—but there are signs every homeowner should know. Think of this like reading your monthly bank statement. If something’s off, you want to catch it early.
Signs From the Outside
- Missing or curled shingles
- Dented vents or flashing
- Granules in your gutters or at the bottom of your downspouts
- Bent or detached gutter sections
- Tree limbs or heavy debris resting on your roof
Signs From the Inside
- Water spots on ceilings or walls
- Damp insulation in the attic
- Musty smells near upper floors
- Unexplained spike in energy bills
Still unsure? This DIY roof check guide from American Family Insurance offers a solid starting point.
Why a Post-Storm Inspection Is Financially Smart
Here’s where we shift from the roof to the bottom line.
When storm damage goes unnoticed, it becomes more than a roofing issue—it becomes a budgeting problem. Small damage grows. Moisture spreads. And suddenly, you’re dealing with mold, insulation repair, or even structural fixes.
Insurance Deadlines Matter
Most policies have a 6- to 12-month claim window for storm damage. But claims require documentation—and the longer you wait, the harder it is to prove that damage came from a specific event.
Hail Damage Isn’t Always Obvious
What looks like a fine roof can hide bruised shingles that compromise waterproofing. The next storm—or freeze—makes those weak points worse.
The Cost of Delay Grows Fast
The cost of ignoring a post-storm inspection is often a multiplier effect. A simple repair becomes full shingle replacement. A damp spot becomes mold remediation. And suddenly, your home repair budget takes a hit you weren’t prepared for.
How a Trusted Montana Roofing Company Makes a Difference
This is where we come in. At Kirkness Roofing, we’ve been doing this since 1978—long enough to know that Montana’s weather doesn’t play favorites. Every home is at risk. What matters is how you respond.
You can learn more about our history and why Montana homeowners trust us here, but here’s what to expect when you call us after a storm:
What Our Storm Response Includes
- Free initial assessment in storm-affected neighborhoods
- Detailed, photo-backed inspection reports you can share with your insurance company
- Honest, professional advice on whether it’s worth filing a claim
- Top-tier workmanship using brands like GAF, Malarkey, and Owens Corning
- Flexible financing options up to $100,000—with no home equity required
We also offer a satisfaction guarantee—not just because it sounds good, but because we believe the work should speak for itself.
What to Do After a Summer Storm
If you suspect damage—or even if you just want peace of mind—here’s your next step checklist:
- Take photos of your property and roof (from the ground)
- Check your attic for any signs of water intrusion
- Call Kirkness Roofing for a professional inspection
- Avoid climbing the roof yourself—that’s what we’re here for
- Start documentation if you think you’ll need to file an insurance claim
Even if your roof looks fine, a professional eye can spot the early signs of deterioration that will save you from bigger repairs later.
Protect Your Roof Like You Protect Your Finances
Summer storms in Montana aren’t going anywhere. But you can protect your home—and your budget—by taking action now instead of waiting for a problem to show up.
At Kirkness Roofing, we believe good decisions are based on information. That’s why we inspect thoroughly, explain clearly, and give you everything you need to make a confident, financially smart choice.
Call 406-256-1798 or schedule your free inspection here.
Let’s make sure your roof is still doing its job—before winter gets the final word.