What does hail damage look like on a roof? It’s a question many homeowners ask after a strong storm passes through. Hailstorms can wreak absolute havoc on your home’s roof, and the signs aren’t always easy to spot. Knowing what hail damage looks like is critical to ensuring your home remains safe, well-protected, and structurally sound.

Here’s what we’ll cover in this blog post:

• The key signs of hail damage on your roof and your property
• Common misconceptions about hail damage
• Steps to take if you suspect your roof has been compromised

If you’ve been hit by a hailstorm and are worried about potential damage, keep reading. We’ll help you understand what to look for and what to do next to protect your home.

🔑 Key Signs of Hail Damage on a Roof

Hail damage can appear differently depending on the severity of the storm, the size of the hail, and the type of roofing material. Below are the most common signs homeowners should look for after a hailstorm.

Impact Marks and Dents

The most noticeable sign of hail damage is the appearance of impact marks on your roof. These are areas where hailstones made direct contact with the roof surface, often leaving dents, cracks, or even punctures.

• Shingles: For asphalt shingles, you may notice small, round dimples or areas where the protective granules have been knocked off, exposing the black underlayer.
• Metal Roofs: Dents and divots are typically more visible on metal roofing because of its hard surface.
• Tile Roofs: Look for chips, cracks, or broken pieces of tiles.

Loss of Granules

On asphalt shingle roofs, one major sign of hail damage is the loss of granules. Granules help protect the underlying materials from UV rays and water damage.

• Look for granules accumulating in your gutters or on the ground around your house.
• Check for bald spots on shingles, where hail may have stripped them away.

Cracked or Split Shingles

Hailstones can create cracks or splits in your shingles. These cracks may lead to water infiltration, which can damage the layers beneath the roof and eventually cause leaks inside the home.

• Examine shingles for visible splits or tears.
• Check for soft or bruised spots, which can indicate hidden damage.

Other Common Signs

• Gutters and Downspouts: Dents and splashes of granules in gutters often indicate hail damage.
• Roof Flashing: Small dents or bending in metal flashing around chimneys and skylights may signal storm impact.
• Debris: While not a direct sign, debris accumulation (such as tree branches) can point to prior roof impacts.

🏚️ Misconceptions About Hail Damage on Roofs

Some myths about hail damage could leave homeowners underestimating potential risks. Here are some misconceptions to clear up.

• Hail Damage is Always Obvious: Many homeowners believe hail damage will be immediately apparent. However, not all damage is visible, especially to an untrained eye or from the ground. Small cracks or granule loss may seem minor but could lead to major issues over time.
• “If It’s Not Leaking, It Must Be Fine”: Leaks don’t appear immediately after hail damage. It can take weeks, months, or even years for slow-developing issues to become noticeable. Proactive inspections are key to preventing costly repairs later.
• Small Hail Can’t Cause Damage: While larger hailstones are more destructive, even small hail can cause significant damage. Small dents and granule loss, if overlooked, can compromise the roof’s long-term durability.
• Insurance Won’t Cover Hail Damage: Contrary to belief, most homeowners’ insurance policies cover hail damage. However, timely reporting is crucial to ensure your claim is approved.

✅ 6 Steps to Take If You Suspect Hail Damage

If you believe your roof has suffered hail damage, it’s important to act quickly. Below are the steps to take to ensure your home is protected.

1. Inspect Your Surroundings

Before climbing onto your roof, inspect your property from the ground. Check for dents on your gutters, siding, fences, and outdoor furniture. Often, this type of damage complements what you’ll find on your roof.

2. Conduct a Roof Inspection

If you’re comfortable and it’s safe to do so, climb your roof with caution to check for the signs of damage we discussed earlier. Use binoculars if needed for a closer look.

3. Call in a Professional Roofing Company

This is where we strongly recommend turning to experts like Bachman’s Roofing. Professional roofers are trained to pinpoint even subtle signs of damage that you might miss. Additionally, our team can provide a detailed assessment to help you understand the extent of the damage and the necessary repairs.

4. Document the Damage

Take clear photos of any dents, cracks, or other evidence you find. Documentation will be essential if you choose to file an insurance claim for repairs or replacement.

5. Contact Your Insurance Company

If hail damage is confirmed, reach out to your homeowner’s insurance provider to start your claim. An adjuster will likely visit your property to verify the damage and process your request. This is another area where Bachman’s Roofing can assist you. We’ll coordinate with your insurance to ensure you’re fully covered.

6. Repair or Replace as Needed

Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need minor repairs or a full roof replacement. At Bachman’s Roofing, we’ll guide you through your options and provide quality work to restore your roof to its best condition.

🛠️ Regular Maintenance Prevents Long-Term Problems

Routine roof maintenance is critical for catching issues like hail damage early. Schedule annual inspections and address small problems as they arise. Proactive care can save you from costly repairs down the road.

💪 Why Choose Bachman’s Roofing

When it comes to hail damage, you can trust Bachman’s Roofing to have your back. Here’s why homeowners repeatedly rely on us.

• Expertise: With years of experience in storm damage repair, we know exactly what to look for and how to handle the repairs professionally.
• Quality Craftsmanship: We use only the best materials to ensure your roof is built to last.
• Customer First Approach: Our team is committed to keeping you informed and supported at every step.

If you have concerns about hail damage on your roof, don’t wait. Contact Bachman’s Roofing today and take the first step toward protecting your home.