Hail storms are not just a nuisance—they can have a real impact on your home, specifically your roof. Whether you’ve already experienced a severe storm or you’re preparing for the possibility, understanding how hail can damage a roof and knowing the steps to take afterward will save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.
In this article, we’ll cover it all:
- The types of roof damage hail can cause
- How to identify hail damage on your roof
- What to do if you spot damage
- Whether or not insurance will cover your repairs
- How to file an insurance claim
- How a professional roofing company can help simplify the process
What Kind of Damage Does Hail Cause to a Roof?
Hailstones can range in size from tiny pellets to golf balls or even larger. The larger the hail, the more destructive it can be. When hailstones strike your roof, they can result in various types of damage depending on factors like the size of the hail, the roof’s material, and the intensity of the storm.
Here are some common types of hail damage your roof might sustain:
Granule Loss on Asphalt Shingles
When hail hits asphalt shingles, it can knock off protective granules. These granules are essential because they act as a barrier, shielding your shingles from harmful UV rays. Without them, your roof becomes more vulnerable to weather exposure and deterioration.
Bruising
Bruising on shingles occurs when hail impacts the surface hard enough to create soft, spongy areas. These bruises may not be immediately visible but can weaken the structural integrity of your roof over time.
Cracks or Fractures
Larger hail can cause cracks in shingles or even break them completely. Cracks compromise the waterproofing abilities of your roof, leaving your home vulnerable to leaks.
Dents in Metal Roofing or Flashing
Metal roofs or components like flashing around chimneys can sustain dents from hail. While these dents might seem cosmetic, they can sometimes lead to deeper structural problems in the future.
Exposed Decking
Severe hail damage can break through the shingles entirely, exposing the underlying decking. If not addressed quickly, this creates an entry point for water, leading to costly interior damage.
What Does Hail Damage Look Like?
Spotting hail damage isn’t always straightforward. While some damage, like large dents or shattered shingles, is easy to spot, other indicators are far more subtle. If you’re a homeowner inspecting your roof, here’s what to look out for:
For Asphalt Shingles
- Missing Granules: Look for horizontal lines where granules have worn away.
- Discoloration: Shingles with patches of darker or lighter areas may indicate hail impact.
- Bruises or Soft Areas: Run your hand over your shingles. If you feel soft spots or dents, you may have hail damage.
For Metal Roofing
- Visible dents in smooth surfaces, panels, or flashing
- Areas where chipped paint has exposed bare metal
Around Your Property
Sometimes, hail damage to your property can signal roof damage even if you can’t see it directly. Look out for:
- Dents in gutters, downspouts, or siding
- Shattered or cracked skylights
- Hail-damaged outdoor furniture and vehicles
Pro Tip: If you suspect hail damage, avoid walking on your roof yourself. It can be dangerous and may worsen the condition of your roof. Instead, call a professional roofer who can safely and thoroughly inspect it for you.
What to Do When Your Roof Has Hail Damage
Found signs of hail damage? Don’t panic. Follow these steps to address the issue and protect your home from further harm.
📸 Document Everything
Before even calling in a contractor, grab your phone or camera and take clear photos of the damage. Capture different angles of your roof and any other affected areas around your home. These photos will come in handy when filing an insurance claim.
🗓️ Schedule a Professional Inspection
Hail damage isn’t always visible from the ground or even to the untrained eye. Contact a licensed roofing contractor who specializes in storm damage to conduct a detailed inspection. They’ll identify damage you might have missed and provide an accurate assessment of the repairs needed.
🔨 Secure the Damaged Areas
If parts of your roof are compromised, such as missing shingles or exposed decking, ask the contractor to apply temporary tarps or coverings. This will minimize further damage until repairs can be made.
☎️ Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your homeowner’s insurance provider about the damage as soon as possible. They’ll guide you on the next steps for filing a claim (more on this below).
Does Insurance Cover Hail Damage Repairs?
The good news? Hail damage is often covered under most homeowner’s insurance policies. However, coverage depends on a few critical factors, so it’s important to review your policy in detail.
What’s Typically Covered
- Damage to roofing materials caused by hail
- Associated damages, such as water leaks caused by resulting roof issues
- Related repairs, such as damaged gutters or siding
Factors That May Affect Coverage
- Deductible: Your policy may have a deductible you need to pay before insurance kicks in.
- Exclusions: Some policies exclude hail damage entirely, especially in regions prone to frequent hailstorms.
- Condition of Your Roof: Insurance companies might deny claims if your roof was already in poor condition before the storm.
Time Limits
Insurance claims for storm damage often need to be filed within a specific time frame. Don’t delay—contact your insurer as soon as you suspect damage.
How to File an Insurance Claim for Hail Roof Damage: 5 Key Steps
Filing an insurance claim can seem daunting, but it’s a straightforward process if you know what steps to take. Here’s a quick guide:
1) Notify Your Insurance Provider
Call your insurance company and inform them about the hail damage. Provide them with any relevant information, including the date of the hailstorm and your initial observations.
2) Schedule an Insurance Adjuster Inspection
Your insurance company will likely send out an adjuster to assess the damage. Have your roofing contractor present during this inspection to ensure all issues are accurately documented.
3) Submit Supporting Documents
Include photos, written estimates from your contractor, and any other documentation that strengthens your claim.
4) Review Your Coverage
Once your claim has been processed, your insurance company will inform you of the coverage amount. Review it carefully to ensure it aligns with the inspector’s findings and your contractor’s estimate.
5) Schedule Repairs
Use the insurance payout to hire a trusted contractor and get the repairs underway. Always choose a reputable roofer with storm damage expertise to ensure quality work.
How Your Roofing Company Can Help
Navigating hail damage repairs and insurance claims can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. A professional roofing company can make the process significantly easier. Here’s how they can help:
- Comprehensive Inspections: Roofing experts know what to look for, even when damage is subtle. Their inspections will ensure all issues are identified and documented, saving you potential headaches down the road.
- Accurate Repair Estimates: After assessing the damage, a reputable roofing company will provide a detailed estimate for the repairs. This document is essential for communicating with your insurance provider.
- Support with Insurance Claims: Many roofing contractors offer assistance with the claims process. From meeting with the insurance adjuster to providing necessary documentation, they can help ensure you get the coverage you’re entitled to.
- Expert Repairs and Peace of Mind: When it comes to repairing your roof, you want the job done right. Professional roofing companies use high-quality materials and industry-best practices to ensure your roof is restored to proper condition.
We Handle Roof Hail Damage
Hail damage to your roof is a serious issue that requires prompt attention. Left unchecked, even minor damage can escalate into more significant problems, from water leaks to structural deterioration. By understanding the types of hail damage, recognizing the signs, and taking proactive steps for repair and insurance claims, you can protect your home and avoid unnecessary costs.
Need professional help with hail damage? Contact Indy Roof today for a free inspection and expert advice. We’re here to restore your roof—and your peace of mind.
