How to Spot Previous Hail Damage on a Roof

Spotting previous hail damage on a roof can be challenging at first glance, but there are several signs you can look for. The tricky part is hail damage might not always be apparent to you as the homeowner, so it's best to consult with a professional roofing inspector for a deeper look. 

What Does Previous Hail Damage on a Roof Look Like to Homeowners?

Here are some common indicators of hail damage that you will be able to spot right away from the ground, without getting on the roof.

Loose or Missing Shingles

The condition of your roof shingles can be a clear indication of hail damage. If the hail has compromised the shingles' integrity, they may become dislodged. If this happens, issues like leaking, mold, and rot can come about down the road. 

Notable Damage to Roof Features

If you see cracks in your skylights, chips on the chimney, or any damage to your satellite dish that looks weather-related, there’s a good chance of hail damage on the roof.  

Dented Gutters and Downspouts

Hailstones hitting gutters and downspouts can leave noticeable dents or dimples you’ll be able to see from the ground. Check these components for signs of impact and take pictures for proof so you can report these and other damages to your insurance company.

Hail Damage a Roofing Professional Can Spot and Fix

Even if you don’t see those visible signs from the ground, hail damage could still be present. Honest Abe roofing professionals will inspect your roof and let you know if it’s time to schedule repairs.

Granule Loss

Loss of granules on asphalt shingles can expose the underlying material, reducing the shingle's effectiveness at protecting your roof.

Bruising or Soft Spots

Bruising or soft spots on shingles can be felt by touch. These soft areas indicate compromised integrity due to hail impact.

Hairline Cracks

Experienced roofers are trained to look for hairline cracks in shingles, which may not be apparent to the naked eye. These cracks can lead to leaks over time.

Damage to Flashing and Vents

Hail can dent the metal flashing around vents and chimneys, as well as damage the vent themselves. 

Potential Insulation Damage

Roofers can check the attic for damage, since hail of any size can puncture the roof membrane and allow water to get into the insulation.

Roofers bring a trained eye and experience to the inspection process, allowing them to identify subtle signs of previous hail damage that might go unnoticed by homeowners. Regular professional inspections, especially after severe weather events like hailstorms, can help catch and address issues early and prevent more significant problems down the line.

Hail Damage and Insurance

Most home insurance companies cover hail damage to your home and roof. Some insurance companies ask to be notified within 30 days of damages, while some give you up to a year or even two years from the date of loss. Of course, this is why it’s always best to inspect your roof immediately after a hail storm. 

However, if you suspect your roof has previous hail damage, you may have to do some research on when a storm could have caused the damage. Honest Abe keeps track of dates when hail storms occurred, so we may be able to help. We will also take pictures of damages and help you communicate with your insurance company to try to get repairs covered. 

Get Your Roof Inspected by Honest Abe Roofing Professionals

There are plenty of reasons why we are the most trusted team for residential roof repair.

• We have 15+ years of experience
• We are licensed, insured, and product certified
• We offer quick turnaround, with many repairs completed within a day
• Our quotes never change
• We only do repairs when needed
• We use the highest-quality products to protect your home and your family

If you think you might have hail damage, have our professional roofing contractors assess the extent of damages. Contact Honest Abe Roofing to schedule your free roof inspection right away.