The short answer
Inspecting Asphalt Shingles for Hail
Check your asphalt shingles for random, circular dents where the protective granules have been knocked away. These spots will look like dark bruises, exposing the black asphalt mat underneath. The damage is not uniform and will appear in a scattered pattern across the roof. It is not the same as blistering or normal weathering, which follows more consistent lines.
Look for granules collecting in your gutters or downspouts, as this is a common sign of hail impact. The exposed mat left by a dent can deteriorate quickly when exposed to sun and rain. This damage compromises the shingle's ability to shed water effectively. If you see this pattern, a professional roof inspection is a prudent next step.
Damage to Other Roofing Materials
Metal roofs show hail damage as small, shiny dents where the factory finish has been disturbed. The dents are often shallow and spread randomly across the roof plane. Unlike dings from falling branches, hail dents are usually uniform in size based on the hailstones. This cosmetic damage can sometimes lead to accelerated rust or paint failure over time.
Wood shingles and shakes may crack or split from a hail impact. Look for fresh, sharp fractures that reveal lighter-colored wood underneath. These splits are different from the checking or cracking caused by natural drying. Cedar and other wood materials can have their lifespan significantly shortened by this type of physical damage.
- Asphalt shingles: Random dark bruises and granule loss.
- Metal roofing: Small, shallow dents with a disturbed finish.
- Wood shingles: Fresh splits exposing lighter wood.
- Clay or concrete tiles: Chipped corners or circular fractures.
- Soft metals like copper or aluminum: Visible dimpling.
- Plastic components: Cracks in vents or pipe boots.
Differentiating Hail from Other Wear
It is important to distinguish hail damage from normal wear and tear. Blistering on asphalt shingles creates raised bumps, not dents, and usually follows manufacturing lines. Wind damage typically lifts shingles along edges or creates creases, while hail creates isolated impact points. Moss growth or algae streaks are biological and cover large areas, unlike the pinpoint hail marks.
General weathering causes uniform granule loss across the entire roof surface, not in concentrated spots. Animal damage or foot traffic often creates specific, localized patterns. Hail damage is random and affects the entire slope facing the storm. Knowing these differences helps you accurately describe what you see to a roofing professional.
Secondary Signs of Roof Damage
Look for collateral damage beyond the shingles themselves. Check metal roof flashings around chimneys and vents for dents. Inspect plastic or PVC plumbing vents, ridge caps, and skylight covers for cracks or holes. Gutters and downspouts may also show dimples or paint chips from hail strikes. These components are often more brittle than the roofing material.
Inside your home, check the attic for signs of new water stains on the decking or insulation. Use a flashlight to look for tiny pinpoints of light coming through the roof sheathing. These interior signs can confirm that the hail impacts were severe enough to breach the roof's surface. Any interior moisture warrants immediate attention from water damage pros.
Next Steps After Suspecting Damage
If you see signs of hail damage, document everything thoroughly. Take clear, dated photos of the dents, granule loss, and any damaged roof fixtures. Also photograph the gutters and any granules on the ground. This visual evidence is crucial for your records and for any discussions with your insurance company or a contractor.
Contact a qualified local roofer for a professional inspection. They can assess the extent of the damage. You should also review your homeowner's insurance policy regarding storm damage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Acting quickly helps prevent minor damage from leading to leaks and interior water issues.
- Document all damage with clear, dated photographs.
- Schedule a professional roof inspection promptly.
- Review your homeowner's insurance policy details.
- Check your attic for new leaks or moisture.
- Prevent further water intrusion with temporary measures.
- Get a detailed repair estimate from a qualified roofer.
Water damage does not wait
Phones are answered 24/7 for Oklahoma City and nearby communities.
Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
Can small hail cause significant roof damage?
Yes, even small hail can knock off protective granules from asphalt shingles. This exposes the mat to UV rays, causing premature aging. Repeated storms or hail driven by high winds compound the damage. The cumulative effect often shortens your roof's lifespan significantly.
How soon should I repair hail damage?
You should address suspected damage within a few weeks. Exposed shingle mats degrade quickly in sun and rain, leading to leaks. Prompt inspection helps document the cause for insurance purposes. Delaying repairs can result in more extensive, costly interior water damage.
Does homeowners insurance cover hail damage?
Many standard policies cover sudden, accidental damage from hail. However, you are responsible for your deductible. Coverage specifics, like repair versus replacement, depend on your policy's terms. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Always review your policy and file a claim promptly after documenting the damage.