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What Does Hail Damage on a Roof Actually Look Like?

Last updated October 26, 2026

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The short answer

Signs of Hail Damage

Hail damage isn't always obvious from the ground. The most common sign on asphalt shingles is a loss of granules, which leaves dark, bare spots that feel rough to the touch. You might also see circular dents or cracks, especially where hail hits the shingle's edge.

Look for bruising, which appears as a dark, soft area on the shingle. Press gently with your hand; a bruised shingle may feel spongy. On metal roofs, hail creates dents or dings, sometimes with a shiny spot where the paint is knocked off. On wood shakes, hail can split or crack the wood.

  • Dark spots on shingles from lost granules
  • Cracks or splits in shingles, especially at edges
  • Dents or dings on metal roofs
  • Bruised, soft areas on asphalt shingles
  • Granule buildup in gutters or downspouts

Why Hail Damage Matters

Hail damage can compromise your roof's ability to shed water. When granules are gone, the asphalt underneath is exposed to sun and weather, which accelerates aging. Cracks and splits allow water to seep into the underlayment and eventually into your home's structure.

If water gets through, it can damage insulation, drywall, and even electrical systems. Over time, this leads to mold growth and wood rot. Catching hail damage early helps you address small issues before they become costly repairs.

  • Compromised shingles lead to leaks
  • Exposed asphalt ages faster
  • Water infiltration can cause mold and rot
  • Early detection prevents bigger problems

How to Check Your Roof Safely

You can inspect from the ground with binoculars, looking for missing or damaged shingles, granule loss, or dents in gutters and vents. For a closer look, you might go into your attic with a flashlight, checking for water stains or light coming through the roof deck.

Do not climb onto the roof yourself, especially after a storm when surfaces are slick. If you suspect damage, consider hiring a local water damage pro to do a thorough inspection. They know what to look for and can access the roof safely.

  • Use binoculars from the ground
  • Check attic for stains or light
  • Inspect gutters for granules
  • Never climb on a wet roof

When to Get a Professional Inspection

If you see any signs of hail damage, or if the storm was severe with large hail, it's wise to have a professional inspect the roof. They can identify damage that you might miss, like subtle bruising or split shingles. A thorough inspection helps you understand the condition of your roof.

After a hailstorm, many homeowners file an insurance claim. The pros can document the damage with photos and notes, which helps your claim process. However, remember that policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

  • Severe storms with large hail
  • Visible signs of damage
  • Age of roof is unknown
  • You plan to file a claim

What to Do If You Find Damage

If you find hail damage, act quickly to prevent water from entering your home. You can place a tarp over the damaged area as a temporary measure, but only if it's safe to do so. Then, contact a local water damage pro to assess the extent of the damage and discuss repair options.

In the meantime, document everything with photos and notes. This helps with insurance claims and gives the pros a clear picture of what happened. If you live in Bellingham, keep your roof inspection records handy for reference. The pros can guide you on next steps, including whether a roof repair or replacement is needed.

  • Tarp the damaged area if safe
  • Take photos of all damage
  • Contact a local water damage pro
  • Document for insurance purposes

Talk to someone now

Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.

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Frequently asked questions

How can I tell if my roof has hail damage?

Look for dark spots on shingles where granules are missing, cracks or splits, and dents on metal surfaces. Check gutters for granule buildup. If you see these signs, it's likely hail damage, but a professional inspection can confirm.

Will my insurance cover hail damage?

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Many home insurance policies cover hail damage, but you need to check your specific policy. Document the damage with photos and file a claim promptly to start the process.

Can I repair hail damage myself?

Small granule loss might not need immediate repair, but cracks or splits should be addressed. DIY repairs are risky and often not effective. It's safer to have a local water damage pro assess the damage and recommend proper repairs to prevent leaks.

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