7 Signs You Sustained Hail Damage on Your Roof

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, but hailstorms can compromise that protection in ways that aren’t always obvious. Spotting signs of hail damage early can save you from costly repairs—or worse, a total roof replacement.

In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about hail damage on your roof and how to identify it. Here’s what we’ll cover:

• Why hail damage is a serious issue for homeowners
• The 7 key signs your roof has been damaged by hail
• Steps to take after a hailstorm to assess and address damage

🤔 Why Hail Damage is a Big Deal

Hailstorms can cause significant damage to roofing materials, weakening their structural integrity and reducing their lifespan. This type of damage often goes unnoticed at first but can lead to bigger problems over time, like leaks, mold growth, and compromised insulation.

Addressing hail damage quickly not only prevents further deterioration but also ensures your home remains protected against future storms. Whether you’re dealing with minor dents in your shingles or extensive damage, it’s crucial to act fast.

• Prevent leaks and water damage.
• Avoid mold growth and health risks.
• Maintain proper insulation and energy efficiency.
• Protect your home from future storms.
• Extend the lifespan of your roof.

⚠️ 7 Signs You Sustained Hail Damage on Your Roof

Identifying hail damage on your roof isn’t always straightforward, but catching it early can save you from expensive roof repairs or even a full roof replacement. After a hailstorm, here are 7 key signs to watch for that could indicate hail storm roof damage:

1. Missing or Cracked Shingles

Hailstones can wreak havoc on your roof’s shingles, loosening, cracking, or even completely dislodging them. Missing shingles are a clear red flag that your roof has been damaged by hail. Cracked shingles, while less obvious, can also leave your roof vulnerable to water infiltration and further structural damage. After a storm, inspect your roof carefully or use binoculars to check from the ground. If you notice gaps or broken pieces, it’s time to call a professional roofing contractor for a hail damage roof inspection.

2. Bruises or Dents in Shingles

When hail strikes, it often leaves behind bruises, soft spots, or dents on your roof shingles. These bruises occur where protective granules have been knocked off, exposing the asphalt layer underneath. Over time, this can lead to roof leaks and weakened shingles. Run your hand over the shingles to feel for these soft spots. If you find hail bruises, act quickly to prevent further roof deterioration. Damaged shingles may seem minor but can significantly shorten the lifespan of your roof.

3. Granule Loss in Gutters

One of the easiest ways to spot roof hail damage is by checking your gutters and downspouts. After a hailstorm, excessive granules often wash off the roof and collect there. These protective granules are vital for shielding shingles from UV rays and weather, so their loss leaves your roof vulnerable to wear. If you notice piles of granules or shingle debris in your gutters, this is a strong warning sign that your roof has sustained hail storm damage and needs attention from a roofing expert.

4. Damaged Flashing or Vents

Hail doesn’t just damage roof shingles—it can also impact the metal components of your roof, like flashing and vents. Roof flashing is essential for keeping water out of vulnerable areas like chimneys and roof valleys. Dents, cracks, or punctures in these materials can compromise their effectiveness, leading to roof leaks and water damage. Inspect metal elements for signs of hail impact, and if you notice issues, consult a roofing specialist to address potential hail roof damage.

5. Leaks or Water Stains Inside Your Home

If you notice water stains on your ceilings or walls after a hailstorm, this could indicate hail damage to your roof. The hail may have created openings in the roofing materials, allowing water to seep in. Even if you don’t see visible roof damage from the outside, interior water stains are a strong indicator that your roof’s protective barrier is no longer intact. Addressing roof leaks quickly can prevent extensive damage like mold growth or structural issues.

6. Circular Cracks or ‘Splatter’ Marks on Roof Tiles

Hail often leaves behind circular cracks, dents, or splatter marks on your roof tiles, especially on tile, slate, or metal roofs. These marks often expose the material underneath, leading to further wear and tear. Circular cracks occur when hail impacts a concentrated area, weakening the structure of the roofing material. If you spot these signs of hail damage, call a professional roofer to assess the extent of the damage and recommend necessary roof repairs.

7. Visible Impact on Skylights, Chimneys, or Siding

Hail damage isn’t limited to roof shingles—it can also impact other areas of your home, such as skylights, chimneys, or siding. Skylights may show cracks or chips in the glass, while chimneys and siding might have dents, dings, or holes. Damage to these elements can lead to leaks and further structural problems. Be sure to inspect these areas carefully after a hailstorm, as damage here may be easier to spot than hail impact on the roof itself.

💧 What to Do After a Hailstorm

After a hailstorm, follow these steps to assess and address potential roof damage effectively:

Inspect Your Roof

Once it’s safe, take a close look at your roof for the signs of hail damage mentioned earlier. Use binoculars to examine hard-to-see areas or hire a professional for a thorough inspection.

Document the Damage

Take clear photos or videos of any damage you find. This documentation will be critical if you need to file an insurance claim.

Contact a Roofing Professional

Hiring a licensed roofing contractor to assess the damage is the safest and most effective way to determine your next steps. They’ll be able to provide an accurate estimate for repairs or recommend a roof replacement if necessary.

File an Insurance Claim

If the hail damage is extensive, file an insurance claim promptly. A professional roofer can often help you navigate this process to ensure you’re compensated fairly.

Schedule Repairs or Replacement

Once your claim is approved, schedule repairs immediately to avoid further damage. Choose a trusted roofing company with experience in storm restoration.

👉 Hail Damage Indicators

When it comes to repairing hail damage on your roof, Certified Roofing Solutions is the team you can trust to get the job done right. With our free inspections, industry-leading expertise, and commitment to guiding you through the insurance claims process, we take the stress out of roof repairs.

Our dedication to quality and long-lasting warranties means your home will be protected for years to come. Don’t let hail damage compromise your peace of mind—contact Certified Roofing Solutions today for a free inspection and experience the difference of working with a team that puts your needs first.