Can you see hail damage on a roof from the ground?
Usually not the damage to the shingles themselves. Hail knocks granules loose and bruises the shingle, and that is hard to see without getting on the roof. From the ground, look for dents in gutters, downspouts, vent caps and air conditioner fins, shingle granules collecting under downspouts, and missing shingles. If you notice any of these after a storm, schedule a free roof inspection.
How hail damages a shingle
Asphalt shingles are covered in small granules that protect the shingle from the sun and help it shed water. Hail can knock those granules loose and bruise or crack the shingle underneath.
Hail damage does not always cause a leak right away. Over time, the damaged areas wear faster, and leaks can show up months or years after the storm. That is why a roof can look fine from the driveway and still have hail damage.
Signs you can see from the ground
Check the metal parts of your home first. Dents in gutters, downspouts, roof vents, window screens and the fins on your outdoor air conditioner unit are common signs that hail was large enough to damage the roof.
After the next rain, look under your downspouts. A noticeable pile of shingle granules can mean the roof was hit. Missing shingles, loose debris on the roof and damaged fences or landscaping are other signs of a strong storm.
If neighbors on your street are having their roofs inspected or replaced after a storm, it is a good idea to have yours checked too.
What a roof inspection finds
A roof inspector looks at the shingles up close for bruising, cracks and granule loss on each side of the roof. The inspector also checks the ridge, the flashing and any lifted shingles that may have been loosened by wind.
The age of the roof matters too. An older roof can be damaged by hail that a newer roof might withstand.
What to do next
Schedule a roof inspection as soon as you can after a storm. Insurance policies have deadlines for filing a claim, and damage is easier to document soon after the storm.
If the inspection finds storm damage, you can decide whether to file a claim with your insurance company.
Related Questions
How big does hail have to be to damage a roof?
Hail around one inch across, about the size of a quarter, can damage asphalt shingles, and older roofs can be damaged by smaller hail.
Does hail damage cause leaks right away?
Not always. Hail damage often shortens the life of the shingles, and leaks may appear later.
Can a drone find hail damage?
Drone photos can help document a roof, but some hail damage is only found by inspecting the shingles up close.
