Hail damage can be tricky to identify, as it often looks different depending on your roofing material. While some signs are obvious, others can be subtle and easily missed without a closer look. Understanding the specific visual cues for different roof types is the first step in assessing potential storm damage.
Hail Damage on Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material, and they are also the most vulnerable to hail. The signs of damage are usually concentrated on the top layer.
Black spots and bruises
When a hailstone strikes an asphalt shingle, it can cause a bruise, which looks like a soft spot or a dent in the shingle’s surface. The force of the impact can also expose the underlying asphalt, leaving a dark, circular or irregular-shaped spot.
Loss of granules
The protective mineral granules on shingles are your roof’s first line of defense against UV rays. Hail impacts can knock these granules off, leaving behind small, bald patches. You might find a large number of granules in your gutters after a hailstorm.
Hail Damage on Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are durable, but they are not immune to hail. The most common signs are cosmetic, but they can still indicate a compromise in the material’s integrity.
Dents and dings
Hail hitting a metal roof will leave dents or dings on the surface. These are often easy to spot and can be uniform in shape, reflecting the size of the hailstones. While the dents themselves may not cause an immediate leak, they can compromise the paint or protective coating.
Paint chipping
The force of the hail impact can cause the paint or protective coating on the metal panels to chip or crack, exposing the underlying metal to rust and corrosion.
Hail Damage on Tile & Wood Roofs
Both tile and wood shake roofs can be damaged by hail, but the signs are different from those on asphalt or metal.
Cracked or split tiles
Clay or concrete tiles are brittle and can crack or split when struck by hail. This damage can range from hairline cracks to full fractures that can lead to leaks.
Wood fractures
Hail can cause fractures in wood shake shingles. These fractures typically run along the wood grain and can be difficult to see unless you’re up close. Over time, these cracks will widen, allowing water to penetrate the roof.
How to Confirm Hail Damage
Even if you spot some signs from the ground, the only way to get a definitive assessment is through a professional inspection.
Professional inspection
A professional roofer will conduct a thorough inspection of your entire roof, including the shingles, flashing, vents, and gutters. They are trained to identify the subtle signs of hail damage and can provide a detailed report for you and your insurance company.
Signs visible from the ground
Before calling a professional, you can check for initial signs of damage from the ground. Look for dents on your gutters or downspouts, as well as any damaged siding. These are strong indicators that your roof may also be affected and that it’s time to call a professional.
Worried about hail damage on your roof? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Masterpiece Roofing offers free, no-obligation roof inspections and works with your insurance to ensure a seamless repair or replacement. Contact us today for a professional assessment!