Signs of hail damage on a roof
How to spot hail damage on an asphalt shingle roof from the ground and up close, what hail damage is often confused with, and when to get an inspection.
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Hail damage on asphalt shingles usually shows as random dark spots where granules have been knocked off, soft bruises that feel like a bruised apple, or cracks in the shingle. From the ground, the easiest clues are dents in gutters, downspouts, roof vents and window screens. Hail around an inch or larger is often enough to damage a typical shingle roof.
What to check from the ground
Do not climb onto the roof yourself. You can learn a lot from the yard:
- Gutters and downspouts with fresh dents or dings.
- Dented roof vents or a dented AC unit.
- Torn or dented window screens and dented mailboxes.
- Piles of shingle granules at the bottom of downspouts.
- If several of these show up after a storm, the roof very likely took hits too.
What hail damage looks like on shingles
Hail hits are random. You will see dark circular marks where granules are missing, often with the black mat showing through. Pressing on a fresh hit can feel soft, like a bruise. Bigger hail can crack the shingle or break it at the edge.
Because hail falls with the wind, one side of the roof often has much more damage than the others.
What is often mistaken for hail
Not every mark is hail. Blisters in the shingle surface, scuffs from foot traffic, cracks from heat and age, and normal granule loss on an older roof can all look like damage. Insurers know the difference, so a good inspection separates true hail hits from wear and tear in the photos.
Why it matters to inspect soon
Hail damage can look minor at first and get worse as bruised shingles lose granules in the sun. Dated photos taken soon after the storm make it far easier to show which storm caused the damage.
General information, not legal advice
Policies differ. Read your own policy, and for legal questions about a claim talk to a licensed public adjuster or an attorney. Appraisal Roofing is a roofing contractor, not an adjuster, appraiser or law firm.
Related questions
What size hail damages a roof?
Hail around an inch across, about the size of a quarter, can damage typical asphalt shingles. Smaller hail can still damage older or weathered roofs.
Can a roof have hail damage without leaking?
Yes. Most hail damage does not leak right away. It shortens the life of the shingles and can lead to leaks later.
Should I go on the roof to check?
No. Roofs are slippery and steep. Check from the ground and let a roofer inspect up close.
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