The short answer
Check Shingles for Bruises
Hail hits shingles hard enough to knock off protective granules, leaving dark, soft areas that feel like a bruise. Run your hand over the roof surface to feel for these spots. Also look for cracked, split, or missing shingles, especially around roof edges and valleys where hail tends to strike hardest.
Granules collect in gutters and downspouts after a hail storm. Check the downspout splash pads or the ground near the downspout for a buildup of black or gray grit. That loss of granules shortens the life of your shingles and exposes the roof deck to water.
Inspect Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters show hail damage as dents or dimples, especially on aluminum or steel sections. Look for bent gutter hangers or seams that have pulled apart. These dents are often a clear clue that hail hit your roof, even if you cannot see damage from the ground.
Also check the downspout outlets for granule buildup. When hail strips granules off shingles, they wash into the gutters and collect near the downspout. If you find a lot of granules, the roof above likely took a beating. Note the area so you can show a pro later.
- Dents in gutters and downspouts
- Granule piles near downspout outlets
- Bent or loose gutter hangers
- Seams pulled apart at gutter joints
Look for Impact Marks on Other Surfaces
Hail leaves marks on more than just the roof. Check your air conditioner fins, window screens, and outdoor metal furniture for dents or dimples. These soft metal surfaces show hail impact clearly and can confirm that a storm hit your property.
Also inspect your siding, especially vinyl or aluminum, for cracks or dents. If you see hail marks on these surfaces, the roof likely suffered similar damage. Use these clues to point a pro toward the areas that need a closer look during a roof inspection.
Spot Water Stains Inside Your Home
Hail damage can create small punctures or weak spots in your roof that let water leak in over time. Look for water stains on ceilings or walls, particularly in the attic or top floor. Brown or yellow rings often appear where water has seeped through the roof deck.
If you find a stain, trace it to the source. That means checking the attic for wet insulation or a damp roof deck. Do not wait for a full leak to show up. Water damage spreads quickly once it starts, so act fast to prevent mold and structural issues.
- Brown or yellow ceiling stains
- Wet or damp attic insulation
- Drips or active leaks after rain
- Musty odor in the attic or top floor
Why a Pro Inspection Matters
Some hail damage is easy to see, but other damage hides in roof valleys, around chimneys, or under loose flashing. A local water damage pro can inspect the whole roof system, including the underlayment and deck. They will identify weakened spots that could fail in the next storm.
Catching hail damage early helps you address leaks before they cause widespread water damage. A pro inspection can identify weakened spots that might fail in the next heavy rain. That keeps your home safer and reduces the need for major repairs later.
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Call Now (386) 272-5697Frequently asked questions
How soon should I check for hail damage after a storm?
Check your roof and gutters within a day or two after the hail stops. The longer you wait, the more time water has to seep through damaged shingles. If you see any signs, call a pro for a full inspection before the next rain.
Can hail damage lead to water damage inside my home?
Yes. Hail can knock off granules, crack shingles, or puncture the roof deck, allowing water to enter. Over time, that leads to ceiling stains, wet insulation, and even mold. Addressing hail damage quickly helps prevent these problems from worsening.
Will my insurance cover hail damage to my roof?
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Most homeowner policies cover hail damage, but you need to file a claim and have the damage documented. Check your policy and talk to your insurance company about the specific terms.