The short answer
Choose Stronger Roofing Materials
When it is time to replace your roof, ask about impact-resistant shingles or metal roofing. These materials are built to absorb hail strikes better than standard asphalt. They are not hail-proof, but they can reduce the number of dents and cracks. If you live in Daytona Beach, where storms can bring hail, this choice can make a real difference.
Your roofing contractor can explain the options and what each material handles well. Some shingles carry a higher upfront cost, but they may last longer after a hailstorm. Keep in mind that no roof is completely immune. Even the toughest material can suffer damage from very large hail or repeated storms.
- Impact-resistant shingles absorb more force
- Metal roofing resists dents better than asphalt
- Ask your roofer about impact resistance
- Consider your local storm patterns
- Weigh cost against long-term durability
Trim Trees and Clear Debris
Tree branches hanging over your roof can break during a storm and fall on the shingles. Hail can also knock loose branches onto the roof. Keep trees trimmed back so branches stay several feet away from the roofline. This reduces the chance of a branch puncturing the roof during a hailstorm.
Also clear away loose debris like dead leaves and twigs from the roof and gutters. When hail hits, debris can be driven into the roofing material, causing extra damage. A clean roof surface lets hail bounce off more easily. Regular maintenance is simple and costs little compared to a roof repair.
Inspect After Every Storm
After a hailstorm, check your roof from the ground and look for signs of damage. Missing shingles, cracked tiles, or dented metal are obvious clues. Also look for granules from asphalt shingles in the gutters, which can signal hail impact. Do not climb onto the roof yourself if it looks unsafe; use binoculars or a drone if you have one.
Inside your home, check the attic for wet spots or water stains on the ceiling. Hail damage can create small holes that let water in slowly. Catching these early helps you dry things out before mold or rot takes hold. If you spot damage, call a roofing professional for a closer look.
- Look for missing or cracked shingles
- Check gutters for granules
- Inspect the attic for wet spots
- Use binoculars for a safe view
- Call a pro if anything looks off
Act Fast When Water Gets In
If hail opens a gap in your roof, water can drip into your attic and walls. You need to act quickly to limit the damage. Put a bucket under a drip and move furniture away. Dry any wet areas with towels and fans if you can do so safely. The sooner you remove moisture, the less chance mold has to grow.
A roofing professional can patch the leak or place a temporary tarp to stop more water from entering. Then a water damage pro can assess what got wet and start drying. Acting in the first day or two often reduces the scope of repairs. Waiting can turn a small leak into a bigger problem.
Know What Your Insurance Covers
Hail damage is often covered under standard homeowners policies, but you need to check your own plan. Look at your policy documents or call your insurance company to ask about hail and roof damage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Some policies have a separate deductible for storm damage, so know that number before you file a claim.
Document the damage with photos and notes before anything is repaired. This helps if you need to file a claim. Your policy may also require you to prevent further damage, like putting a tarp over a hole. Ask your insurer what steps they expect from you after a storm.
Water damage does not wait
Call (386) 272-5697 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (386) 272-5697Frequently asked questions
What size of hail damages a roof?
Hail that is one inch or larger, about the size of a quarter, can dent and crack shingles. Smaller hail may not cause visible damage, but it can still knock granules loose. If you see any signs, get a roof inspection.
Can I patch a small hail hole myself?
You can cover a small hole with a tarp temporarily to stop water from coming in. For a permanent fix, you need a roofing professional to replace the damaged shingles or metal panel. DIY patches often fail in the next storm.
How soon should I check my roof after hail?
Check as soon as it is safe, ideally within a day or two. The longer water sits in your attic or walls, the more damage it can cause. Early detection lets you dry things out and prevent mold growth.