The May 18, 2025, hailstorm that hit Siloam Springs brought baseball-sized hail and 70+ mph winds, damaging an estimated 7,945 properties. If your home was affected, you need immediate roof inspection, proper insurance documentation, and qualified local contractors to prevent further damage and ensure full coverage.
Understanding the May 18th Siloam Springs Storm Impact
The recent hailstorm that struck Siloam Springs represents one of the most significant weather events our community has experienced in recent years:
Storm Specifications:
- Hail size: Up to baseball-sized stones (2.75+ inches)
- Wind speeds: Sustained winds exceeding 70 mph
- Coverage area: 14 states affected, with Siloam Springs in the direct path
- Property impact: Approximately 7,945 structures are estimated to be damaged
- Primary damage: Roofs, gutters, siding, windows, and vehicles
Most Affected Areas:
- Residential neighborhoods throughout Siloam Springs
- Commercial properties with exposed roofing systems
- Vehicles caught in open parking areas
- Landscaping and outdoor structures
The combination of large hail and high winds created a “perfect storm” for significant property damage that many homeowners are still discovering.
Immediate Steps if Your Home Was Damaged
Time is critical after hail damage—both for preventing further issues and maximizing insurance coverage:
First 24-48 Hours:
- Document everything with photos from multiple angles
- Cover exposed areas with tarps to prevent water damage
- Contact your insurance company to file a claim immediately
- Schedule a professional inspection within 72 hours for the best results
- Keep all receipts for emergency repairs and temporary materials
Safety Considerations:
- Don’t attempt to inspect steep or damaged roofs yourself
- Watch for loose materials that could fall
- Be cautious of compromised gutters or overhangs
- Call professionals for any structural concerns
Documentation Best Practices:
- Photograph hailstones next to measuring tools, if possible
- Take wide shots showing the overall property condition
- Capture close-ups of specific damage points
- Include damage to gutters, vents, and soft metals
- Document any interior water damage or stains
What Hail Damage Looks Like on Siloam Springs Homes
Recognizing hail damage isn’t always obvious, especially with smaller impacts that compound over time:
Obvious Roof Damage Signs:
- Missing shingles or large sections of granule loss
- Exposed black substrate where protective granules are gone
- Cracked or split shingles from direct hail impacts
- Dented or damaged gutters and downspouts
- Impact marks on metal vents, flashing, or AC units
Subtle Damage That Worsens Over Time:
- Loosened granules are collecting in gutters
- Hairline cracks in shingles that will expand
- Compromised sealant around roof penetrations
- Bruised shingles that appear intact but have a reduced lifespan
- Micro-fractures in flashing or metal components
Interior Warning Signs:
- New water stains on ceilings or walls
- Musty odors indicate moisture intrusion
- Increased energy bills from compromised insulation
- Visible daylight through roof areas
Insurance Claim Process for Siloam Springs Residents
Many residents are facing both physical damage and financial challenges—here’s how to navigate insurance successfully:
Critical Timeline Requirements:
- Report claims within 1 year of storm date (varies by insurer)
- Emergency repairs: Document before completing
- Adjuster inspection: Schedule within 2 weeks of filing
- Final settlement: Typically resolved within 30-60 days
Maximizing Your Claim Value:
- Use local contractors familiar with Arkansas building codes
- Get independent estimates to compare with adjuster assessments
- Don’t accept the first settlement offer without contractor review
- Understand replacement cost vs. actual cash value differences
- Know your deductible structure (often higher for wind/hail)
Red Flags to Avoid:
- Contractors who offer to “eat your deductible”
- Door-to-door solicitors without proper licensing
- Pressure to sign contracts before insurance inspection
- Quotes are significantly lower than others (quality concerns)
Why Choose Local Siloam Springs Roofing Contractors
After major storms, many out-of-state contractors flood the area—here’s why local expertise matters:
Ozark Mountain Roofing Advantages:
- Local reputation and community ties you can verify
- Arkansas licensing and proper insurance coverage
- Understanding of local building codes and permit requirements
- Established relationships with suppliers for quality materials
- Long-term warranty support after storm contractors leave
Local Market Knowledge:
- Experience with Arkansas weather patterns and material requirements
- Familiarity with local insurance companies and their processes
- Understanding of Siloam Springs permit and inspection procedures
- Access to quality materials suitable for our climate
- Ability to provide references from recent local projects
Avoiding Storm Chaser Pitfalls:
- Verify contractor licensing through the Arkansas Contractor Licensing Board
- Check Better Business Bureau ratings and local references
- Ensure they have a local business address and phone number
- Confirm proper insurance and workers’ compensation coverage
- Never pay large amounts up front or sign contracts under pressure
Preventing Further Damage While Waiting for Repairs
With high demand for roofing services after the storm, protecting your home during the wait is crucial:
Emergency Protection Measures:
- Professional tarping for exposed roof areas
- Gutter clearing to ensure proper drainage
- Interior moisture monitoring to prevent mold growth
- Attic inspection for insulation damage or water intrusion
- Temporary sealing of minor penetrations
What NOT to Do:
- Don’t attempt major repairs yourself
- Avoid walking on potentially damaged roofing
- Don’t ignore small leaks that can become major problems
- Never delay emergency protection measures
- Don’t accept “quick fixes” that may void warranties
Bottom Line: Your Siloam Springs Storm Recovery Strategy
Act immediately if:
You have obvious roof damage or leaks
- Interior water damage is developing
- Gutters or downspouts are severely damaged
- Neighbors are filing successful insurance claims
Take Your Time to Research if:
- Damage appears minor or cosmetic only
- No active leaks or immediate threats exist
- You want to compare multiple contractor estimates
- The insurance adjuster hasn’t completed the inspection yet
Red Flags Requiring Immediate Professional Help:
- Any structural damage or sagging
- Active leaks during rain
- Electrical hazards near water damage
- Compromised chimney or ventilation systems
Your Next Steps for Storm Recovery
- Contact Ozark Mountain Roofing for a free, comprehensive storm damage assessment
- File your insurance claim within the next week if you haven’t already
- Document all damage with photos and detailed notes
- Get written estimates from at least three licensed Arkansas contractors
- Review your insurance policy to understand coverage limits and deductibles
- Plan for temporary protection if repairs are delayed
- Stay vigilant for signs of interior damage or worsening conditions
The May 18th hailstorm was a significant event for our Siloam Springs community, but with proper professional guidance and prompt action, your home can be fully restored to pre-storm condition. Don’t let storm damage worsen—take action now to protect your investment and ensure your family’s safety.
Ready to get started? Contact Ozark Mountain Roofing today for your free storm damage assessment and learn how we’re helping Siloam Springs recover stronger than before.