The short answer
What to Look For
Start by examining your roof from the ground with binoculars. Hail often leaves dark, round bruises on asphalt shingles, which look like small dents or soft spots. You might also see cracked or missing shingles, especially along the edges or where the roof meets the walls.
Check gutters and downspouts for dents and dings. Hail can also knock granules off shingles, and those granules often collect in gutters or on the ground below. Look for dented vents, chimney caps, and outdoor air conditioning units, as these are common targets.
- Dented or cracked shingles
- Granules in gutters or on the ground
- Dents on gutters, downspouts, and vents
- Cracked or broken skylights
- Dented metal roof panels or flashing
- Damaged siding or window screens
Why Ground Checks Miss Some Damage
A ground-level view gives you a good start, but it cannot reveal everything. Hail damage can hide in roof valleys, under overlapping shingles, or on flat roofs that are not visible from below. Soft spots in shingles may not show up until you are closer.
Also, damage to the roof deck or underlayment might not be visible from the ground at all. If you suspect hail hit your roof, a closer inspection is wise. A professional can climb up and check every section safely, which is something you should not attempt yourself.
What to Do After a Storm
After a hailstorm, act quickly to assess the situation. Start with your ground-level check, and take photos of anything you see. If you spot damage, or if you are unsure, it is a good idea to have a professional water damage inspection done. They can identify issues that are not obvious from below.
If you live in Daytona Beach, keep in mind that the humid subtropical climate can speed up mold growth after water gets in. A thorough assessment can catch problems early, before they turn into bigger repairs. Documenting the damage with photos and notes helps if you file an insurance claim.
When to Call the Pros
You might wonder if you can handle it yourself. For minor dents on gutters or a few missing granules, you might not need help. But if you see cracked shingles, or if you cannot see the whole roof, it is safer to bring in local water damage pros. They have the training and equipment to inspect safely.
A professional water damage assessment can reveal hidden moisture that leads to rot or mold. If water has already entered your home, water damage cleanup may be needed. The pros can also help with structural repairs after damage, ensuring your roof and home stay sound.
Protecting Your Home
Regular roof maintenance can make hail damage easier to spot. Keep trees trimmed so branches do not hide damage, and clear gutters so you can see dents. After a storm, check again because new damage may appear over time as shingles age.
If you do find damage, document it thoroughly. Take photos from multiple angles and note the date of the storm. This documentation is useful for your insurance claim. Remember, policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered, so check your policy and report damage promptly.
- Take photos of all visible damage
- Note the storm date and hail size if known
- Keep records of any repairs or inspections
- Check your roof again after a few weeks
- Consider a professional inspection after severe hail
Talk to someone now
Call (386) 272-5697 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (386) 272-5697Frequently asked questions
Can hail damage cause leaks right away?
Sometimes. Large hail can crack shingles, allowing water in immediately. But small dents may not leak until later, as shingles age or after heavy rain. Check your attic for wet spots or stains after a storm.
How can I tell if my roof is damaged without going up?
Use binoculars from the ground to look for dark spots or missing granules. Check gutters for granules and dents. If you see anything suspicious, call a professional for a closer look.
Should I file an insurance claim for hail damage?
If you see damage, it is wise to document it and contact your insurer. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to understand your deductible and coverage before filing.