10 Signs Your Roof Has Hail Damage

By Precision Roofing Team Precision Roofing Team

Hailstorms can cause significant damage to your roof, but unlike a missing shingle, hail damage is often difficult to spot from the ground. If left unchecked, compromised shingles will eventually lead to leaks and water damage inside your home.

What Does Hail Damage Look Like?

When hail strikes an asphalt shingle, it can knock off the protective granules, exposing the underlying asphalt to the sun. Over time, UV rays will bake and crack the exposed asphalt, leading to failure.

10 Signs to Look For:

1. Dents in Gutters and Downspouts: This is often the easiest sign to spot from the ground. If your metal gutters are dented, your roof likely took a hit too.
2. Damage to Siding or Windowsills: Check the exterior of your home for dents or dings.
3. Dented Mailboxes or Cars: If vehicles parked outside were damaged, your roof definitely needs an inspection.
4. Granules in the Gutters: A massive sudden accumulation of shingle granules in your gutters or at the base of your downspouts after a storm is a major red flag.
5. "Bruised" Shingles: These look like dark, circular spots where the granules have been knocked away. They might feel soft or spongy to the touch (do not climb on your roof to check this yourself!).
6. Cracked Shingles: Large hail can crack the fiberglass mat of the shingle entirely.
7. Missing Shingles: High winds accompanying hail can tear shingles right off the roof.
8. Dented Roof Vents or Flashing: Metal components on your roof will show clear dents from hail impacts.
9. Damage to AC Units: Check the fins on your outdoor HVAC unit for denting.
10. Water Spots on Your Ceiling: This is the worst-case scenario. If you see water stains inside, the hail damage has already breached the roof system.

Safety First: Never climb onto a potentially damaged roof. Call the professionals at Precision Roofing for a safe, comprehensive, and free hail damage inspection.