Hailstorms can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Those little balls of ice falling from the sky might seem harmless, but they can wreak havoc on your roof.
If you’ve recently experienced a hailstorm in your area, it’s essential to check for any potential damage to your roof. Hail damage, if left unaddressed, can lead to costly repairs down the road. In this homeowner’s guide, we’ll discuss six tell-tale signs of hail damage on your roof and what you should do about it. Let’s get started!
Inside this blog:
- A brief overview of what hail damage can look like
- 6 key signs that you have hail damage on your roof and how to spot them
- Tips for what to do once you find hail damage
Keep reading to learn more about how to effectively spot hail damage on your roof!
What Does Hail Damage Look Like? 🤔
Before we dive into the signs of hail damage, let’s understand what it can look like. Hail damage is not always obvious, and it may take a trained eye to spot the issues. Here are some common signs to watch out for:
Dented or Cracked Shingles
A hail storm can cause dents or cracks in your shingles. These may be hard to see from the ground, but if you can get up on your roof or use binoculars, you might spot these imperfections.
Missing Granules
Hail can strip the granules from your shingles, leaving bald spots. These granules protect your shingles from the sun’s UV rays and are vital for the longevity of your roof.
Soft Spots
Hail storms can create soft spots on your roof. If you walk on your roof and feel it give way slightly underfoot, it’s a sign that the shingles have been compromised.
Cracked or Broken Tiles
For homes with tile roofs, hail can crack or break tiles, leaving your roof vulnerable to leaks.
Now, let’s explore the six tell-tale signs of hail damage in detail:
1. Bruised Shingles
To identify hail damage, look for bruised or dented shingles. Hailstones can hit your roof with considerable force, leaving behind visible dents or depressions. These dents may not always be immediately noticeable, so a close inspection is necessary.
How to spot bruised shingles:
- Inspect Your Roof Up Close: Climb onto your roof or use binoculars to examine your shingles for any dents or depressions.
- Check for Shingle Indentations: Run your hand gently over the shingles to feel for any areas where the surface is not smooth.
2. Granule Loss
Granules protect your shingles from UV radiation and provide an extra layer of defense against the elements. Hail damage can dislodge these granules, leaving your shingles vulnerable to further degradation.
Signs of granule loss:
- Check for Bald Spots: Look for patches of shingles that appear darker than the rest, indicating a loss of granules.
- Examine Your Gutters and Downspouts: Check your gutters for an accumulation of granules, as they may wash off your roof during rain.
3. Cracked Shingles
Hail can also cause shingles to crack, which can lead to water infiltration and roof leaks over time. Cracked shingles are a clear sign of hail damage that needs immediate attention.
How to identify cracked shingles:
- Inspect Your Roof Closely: Look for shingles with visible cracks, especially at the edges or corners.
- Run Your Fingers Carefully: Run your fingers along the shingles to feel for any fractures or splits.
4. Soft Spots on Your Roof
Hail damage can weaken the structure of your roof, creating soft spots that may not be immediately visible but can cause significant issues over time.
How to detect soft spots:
- Walk on Your Roof: If you can safely do so, walk on your roof and feel for any areas that give way or feel spongy.
- Listen for Creaking: Pay attention for any unusual creaking or cracking sounds as you walk.
5. Damaged Gutters and Downspouts
Hail can also damage your gutters and downspouts. Check for dents, dings, or bent sections that may indicate hail impact.
How to assess gutter and downspout damage:
- Inspect Them Closely: Examine your gutters and downspouts for visible signs of impact damage.
- Check for Debris: Look for granules or small pieces of shingle material in your gutters, which can be an indicator of roof damage.
6. Cracked or Broken Roof Tiles
If you have a tile roof, hail can cause tiles to crack or break. Damaged tiles can lead to leaks and should be addressed promptly.
How to spot tile damage:
- Visually Inspect Tiles: Examine your roof tiles for visible cracks or breaks.
- Check Your Attic: Look in your attic for any signs of water infiltration or light coming through damaged tiles.
What to Do If You Suspect Hail Damage 🚧
If you notice any of these signs of hail damage on your roof, it’s essential to take action promptly:
- Document the Damage: Take clear photos of the damage for your records and potential insurance claims.
- Contact a Professional: Reach out to a licensed roofing contractor for a thorough inspection and assessment of the damage.
- File an Insurance Claim: If the damage is significant, contact your homeowner’s insurance provider to begin the claims process.
- Schedule Repairs: Once your claim is approved, work with your roofing contractor to schedule repairs or a roof replacement as needed.
- Preventative Measures: Consider installing impact-resistant roofing materials to protect your home from future hail damage.
Remember that addressing hail damage promptly can prevent more extensive and costly repairs down the road. Your roof plays a crucial role in protecting your home, so don’t delay in addressing any potential issues.
Combat Hail Damage Like a Pro
Hail damage is not always immediately obvious, but it can lead to significant problems if left untreated. Regular inspections and prompt action are key to maintaining the integrity of your roof and protecting your home. So, keep an eye out for these tell-tale signs after a hailstorm and take the necessary steps to keep your roof in top shape!
Connect with our expert team of roofers at Kornerstone Roofing today. We’ll ensure your next roofing project goes smoothly and that you’re nothing short of ecstatic with the results!
