How do I know if my roof has hail damage if it is not leaking?
Hail damage is often hard to see from the ground. Hail can knock granules loose and bruise shingles without causing a leak right away. Dents in gutters, vents and other metal on the roof are common signs, and a roof inspection is the best way to know for sure.
What hail does to shingles
When hail hits an asphalt shingle, it can knock granules loose and leave a soft, dark spot. This kind of damage is hard to see from the ground.
Granules protect shingles from the sun. When they are knocked loose, those areas wear out faster than the rest of the roof.
Signs you can check from the ground
Look for dents in gutters, downspouts, vent caps and other metal around your home. Metal shows hail damage more easily than shingles do.
Check the ground where your downspouts drain. A buildup of granules can be a sign that your shingles are losing their surface.
Have your roof checked after a storm
Insurance policies have deadlines for filing a claim, and the time usually starts from the date of the storm. If hail has passed through your area, it is a good idea to have your roof inspected even if you do not see damage.
Contact Empire Contractors for a free, no-obligation estimate.
Related questions
Can I check for hail damage myself?
You can look for dents in metal and granules near your downspouts from the ground. For your safety, leave the roof itself to a professional.
How long does hail damage take to leak?
It can take months or even years, which is why hail damage is often missed.
Can small hail damage a roof?
Yes. Wind speed and the age of the roof matter along with the size of the hail.
