The Free State's summer storms arrive fast and hit hard. The roofs that come through undamaged are almost always the ones that were checked before the season, not after.
Why pre-season checks beat post-storm repairs
Hail rarely destroys a healthy roof. What it does is find the weak points: cracked tiles, lifted flashing, brittle waterproofing and blocked gutters. Fix those before the first storm and the same hail that floods your neighbour's ceiling runs off yours harmlessly.
What a pre-season roof inspection covers
A proper inspection looks at tile or sheet condition, ridge capping, flashing around chimneys and skylights, gutter fixing and fall, downpipe capacity, and the state of any waterproofing membranes on flat sections. In Bloemfontein's older suburbs, we also check for rusted roof screws and perished rubber washers on IBR and corrugated roofs.
The insurance angle
Insurers increasingly reject hail claims where the damage traces back to poor maintenance. A documented inspection creates a paper trail showing your roof was sound before the storm, which makes claims significantly smoother.
After the storm: act fast but safely
If hail does get through, move valuables, catch drips, and photograph everything before temporary repairs. Never climb onto a wet roof. Our team runs 24/7 emergency callouts through storm season for exactly this reason.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is hail season in Bloemfontein?
Most hailstorms in the Free State hit between October and March, with the heaviest activity in late spring and early summer thunderstorm season.
How often should a roof be inspected?
Once a year is a good rhythm for Bloemfontein homes, ideally in late winter before storm season. Older roofs or roofs with previous repairs benefit from a check every six months.
Do you do emergency roof repairs after storms?
Yes. Nexus General DIY is available 24/7 and prioritises active leaks and storm damage across Bloemfontein.