Can you see hail damage on a roof from the ground?
Usually not. Hail can damage shingles without leaving a hole, and that kind of damage is hard to see from the ground. You can often spot other signs, such as dents in gutters, downspouts and vents, shingle granules collecting under downspouts, and neighbors having their roofs replaced. If you see any of these after a storm, schedule a roof inspection.
How hail damages a shingle
An asphalt shingle has a fiberglass mat coated in asphalt and covered with granules that protect it from the sun. Hail can knock granules loose and bruise or crack the mat underneath without breaking through the shingle.
Damaged shingles may not leak right away. Over time, exposed asphalt wears faster, and the roof can start to leak months or years after the storm. That is why a roof can be damaged and still look fine from the driveway.
Signs you can see from the ground
Check the gutters, downspouts, roof vents and the fins on your outdoor air conditioning unit for dents. Torn window screens and dents on cars or mailboxes are also signs that hail was large enough to damage a roof.
After the next rain, look under your downspouts. A noticeable pile of granules can mean the roof has lost granules to hail.
If several homes on your street are getting new roofs after a storm, your roof may have been damaged as well.
What an inspection looks for
During a roof inspection, the inspector checks each slope for hail hits, lifted or missing shingles and damage to the ridge and flashing. Adjusters often mark a 10 by 10 foot test square on each slope and count the hail hits inside it to decide whether the slope should be replaced.
What to do if you see signs of hail
Schedule a roof inspection before you file a claim. NTX Roofing Solutions offers free, no-obligation inspections, and if we find damage, we can take care of the claim paperwork while we are on site. Insurance policies have filing deadlines, so it is best not to wait.
Related questions
How big does hail have to be to damage a roof?
Hail about one inch in diameter can damage asphalt shingles. Smaller hail can damage an older roof, especially when it is driven by strong winds.
Can a drone find hail damage?
A drone can photograph a roof, but some hail damage can only be confirmed by inspecting the shingles up close.
My roof is new. Should I still have it inspected after a storm?
If you see dents in your gutters or vents, an inspection is a good idea. It gives you a record of your roof's condition after the storm.
