How To Spot Roof Damage From Hail In Des Moines

Wondering how to spot roof damage from hail? Hailstorms can cause serious damage to your roof, leading to costly repairs if not addressed quickly. Even small hailstones can weaken roofing materials, create cracks, and compromise your home’s protection. Left unchecked, hail damage can lead to leaks, mold growth, and structural issues, reducing your roof’s lifespan and increasing repair costs.

Understanding how hail affects your roof and knowing what steps to take can help you protect your home and prevent further issues. In this guide, we’ll cover the signs of hail damage, how to assess your roof after a storm, and the best course of action for repairs.

How Hail Damages Your Roof

Hailstorms can vary in intensity, but even small hailstones can cause significant damage to your roof. The extent of the damage depends on factors like hail size, wind speed, and the age of your roofing materials.

Here’s a closer look at how hail impacts different parts of your roof:

1. Shingle Damage

Hail can crack, dent, or loosen asphalt shingles, reducing their ability to protect your home. The impact can weaken the adhesive holding the shingles in place, increasing the risk of them detaching in future storms. Even if the damage seems minor at first, small cracks or dents can widen over time, allowing moisture to seep in and cause leaks.

2. Granule Loss

Asphalt shingles are coated with protective granules that shield them from harsh weather and UV exposure. When hailstones hit your roof, they can dislodge these granules, exposing the underlying material. This speeds up the aging process, making shingles brittle and prone to cracking. If you notice excessive granules collecting in your gutters or downspouts after a storm, it’s a sign that your roof has suffered hail damage.

3. Cracks and Punctures

Larger hailstones can cause more severe damage, such as cracks or punctures in shingles, flashing, or roof vents. This type of damage creates direct entry points for water, leading to leaks and potential interior damage. Over time, water infiltration can result in mold growth, wood rot, and insulation damage, increasing the cost of repairs.

4. Weakened Roof Structure

Repeated hail impacts gradually weaken roofing materials, even if individual storms don’t seem severe. Shingles, underlayment, and roof decking can all deteriorate, making the roof more vulnerable to future damage. Over time, this can lead to warping or sagging, which compromises the structural integrity of your entire roof.

5. Gutter and Downspout Damage

Hail doesn’t just affect shingles—it can also dent, crack, or clog gutters and downspouts. When these drainage systems are damaged, water may not flow properly off your roof, leading to pooling water and potential leaks. Additionally, backed-up gutters can cause water to overflow near your home’s foundation, increasing the risk of basement flooding or foundation erosion.

Even if hail damage isn’t immediately visible from the ground, these issues can escalate quickly. That’s why it’s important to inspect your roof after a storm and address any potential damage before it worsens.

Signs of Hail Damage

After a hailstorm, it’s crucial to inspect your home for potential roof damage. Even if the damage isn’t immediately visible from the ground, small issues can worsen over time, leading to leaks and costly repairs. Here’s what to look for when assessing your roof for hail damage:

1. Dented or Missing Shingles

One of the most obvious signs of hail damage is dented, cracked, or missing shingles. Hail can create small, round depressions on asphalt shingles, which weaken their protective coating. If the impact is strong enough, it may loosen shingles or cause them to break apart entirely. Missing shingles leave your roof exposed to moisture and wind damage, increasing the risk of leaks.

2. Excess Granules in Gutters

Hail impact can dislodge the granules that protect shingles from UV rays and harsh weather. If you notice an unusual buildup of granules in your gutters or downspouts after a storm, it could indicate that your shingles have suffered significant wear. Over time, granule loss accelerates roof deterioration, making your shingles more prone to cracking and leaks.

3. Leaks or Water Stains

Check your ceilings and walls for signs of water damage. Stains, discoloration, or peeling paint could indicate a roof leak caused by hail damage. If left untreated, leaks can lead to mold growth, rotting wood, and structural issues. Even small water stains should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.

4. Dented Metal Components

Hail doesn’t just damage shingles—it can also dent metal vents, flashing, and gutters. Inspect these areas for signs of impact. Dented flashing around chimneys, skylights, or roof edges can create gaps that allow water to seep into your home. If your gutters are dented or misaligned, they may not drain water properly, leading to pooling water on your roof or near your foundation.

5. Soft or Bruised Shingles

Hail impact can cause hidden damage that isn’t always visible. Press gently on your shingles—if they feel soft or spongy, the hail may have bruised the material underneath. This internal damage weakens shingles, making them more susceptible to leaks and deterioration. Over time, bruised shingles can crack or fail completely, allowing water to penetrate your roof’s structure.

Even if you don’t see obvious signs of damage, hail can weaken your roof in ways that aren’t immediately noticeable. If you suspect hail damage, scheduling a professional inspection can help identify problems before they escalate.

What to Do If Your Roof Has Hail Damage

1. Inspect Your Roof Safely

If possible, visually inspect your roof from the ground using binoculars. Avoid climbing onto your roof if you’re unsure of its condition.

2. Document the Damage

Take photos and videos of any visible damage. This documentation will be helpful for insurance claims.

3. Check with Your Neighbors

If nearby homes have visible damage, your roof likely has damage too. Comparing notes with neighbors can help confirm hail impact.

4. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

A licensed roofing contractor can assess the damage and provide a repair estimate. They can also check for hidden issues that aren’t easily visible.

5. File an Insurance Claim

If your roof has significant damage, contact your insurance company to start a claim. Provide them with your documentation and schedule an adjuster inspection.

6. Schedule Repairs or Replacement

Depending on the severity of the damage, your contractor will recommend either repairs or a full roof replacement. Prompt action can prevent further damage and costly repairs.

Preventative Measures to Protect Your Roof

While you can’t stop hail from falling, you can take steps to minimize its impact:

• Choose impact-resistant shingles – Opt for Class 4 impact-resistant shingles, which can withstand hail better.
• Trim overhanging branches – Remove weak branches that could break and damage your roof during a storm.
• Maintain gutters and drainage systems – Ensure gutters are clear to prevent water buildup after a hailstorm.
• Schedule regular roof inspections – Professional inspections can identify weak spots before a storm hits.

When to Call a Roofing Professional

If you suspect hail damage, don’t wait until a leak appears. A professional roofing contractor can provide a thorough inspection and recommend the best course of action. Quick repairs can prevent minor damage from turning into major issues.

Final Thoughts

Hail damage can compromise your roof’s integrity, leading to leaks, structural problems, and costly repairs. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and timely repairs can extend your roof’s lifespan and protect your home. If a hailstorm hits your area, act quickly to assess the damage and contact a roofing professional for help.

Need a hail damage inspection? Contact Elite Roofing today for expert evaluation and repairs.