The Impact of Hail on Your Roof: What You Need to Check

When a hailstorm hits, your roof is the first line of defense—but it's also one of the most vulnerable parts of your home. While some hail damage is immediately noticeable, other issues might go unseen for weeks or even months. Understanding what to check after a hailstorm can help you catch problems early, avoid expensive repairs, and protect your investment.

At PACE Home Solutions, we’ve helped countless homeowners identify storm damage and restore their roofs quickly and efficiently. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the signs of hail damage, what to look for, and how to act fast if your roof takes a hit.

Why Hailstorms Are a Big Deal for Your Roof

Hail may seem like just another part of a summer storm, but it can cause serious damage. Depending on its size, speed, and density, hail can:

• Crack shingles or tiles

• Dent metal roofing

• Break seals around vents and chimneys

• Cause hidden leaks that lead to mold and wood rot

Even small hail—around the size of a dime—can damage older or already weathered roofs. After any hailstorm, it’s essential to inspect your roof or call in professionals like PACE Home Solutions to check for subtle signs of damage.

Signs Your Roof Has Hail Damage

Some signs of hail damage are easy to spot, especially on the ground or from your driveway. Others require a closer inspection. Here’s what to look for:

1. Damaged or Missing Shingles

Hail can knock shingles loose or crack them, making your roof more vulnerable to leaks. Look for:

• Bald spots where granules are missing

• Shingles that are curled or lifted

• Random circular patterns or bruises on shingles

If you're unsure whether a shingle is damaged, gently press on it. If it feels soft or spongy, it may be bruised underneath.

2. Granules in Gutters or Downspouts

After a hailstorm, check your gutters and downspouts for shingle granules. These granules give your roof its color and help protect it from UV rays. Excessive granule loss means your roof’s protective layer is compromised.

3. Dents in Metal Flashing or Vents

Metal parts on your roof—such as flashing, vents, and skylight frames—can easily dent from hail. These dents are clear indicators of impact and could also signal potential leaks.

4. Leaks or Water Stains

If you notice water stains on your ceilings or walls, it might be from roof damage. Even small hail can cause cracks or punctures that eventually lead to leaks.

5. Loose or Hanging Gutters

Hailstorms often come with strong winds that can pull gutters loose or cause them to sag. Improper drainage from damaged gutters can lead to water pooling around your home’s foundation.

Why You Shouldn't Wait to Address Hail Damage

Many homeowners make the mistake of delaying roof repairs, especially if the damage doesn’t seem urgent. Unfortunately, small issues can quickly grow into big (and expensive) problems. Here’s what can happen if hail damage goes unaddressed:

• Leaks become mold: Moisture in your attic can lead to mold and mildew growth, which is costly to remove and bad for your health.

• Structural damage worsens: Water seeping through cracks can weaken your roof decking and even your home’s structure.

• Insurance claims may be denied: Most insurance companies have a time limit for filing a claim after storm damage. Waiting too long could cost you thousands.

When to Call in the Professionals

Some signs of hail damage are hard to spot unless you’re trained to recognize them. If you're ever in doubt, it’s best to call a roofing professional to perform a thorough inspection. PACE Home Solutions offers free roof assessments to help you catch problems early and get a clear picture of your roof’s condition.

A professional roofer can:

• Inspect all roofing components, including shingles, underlayment, flashing, and seals

• Provide detailed documentation and photos of damage for insurance claims

• Give honest recommendations for repair or replacement

• Help you understand your insurance policy and support you through the claims process

The Insurance Side of Hail Damage

Many homeowners’ insurance policies cover hail damage, but the process can feel overwhelming. If you suspect your roof has taken a hit, follow these steps:

1. Document the damage
   Take clear photos of any visible hailstones, damage to your roof, gutters, siding, or windows.

2. Call your insurance provider
   Report the damage as soon as possible. They’ll typically send an adjuster to assess the situation.

3. Get a professional inspection
   Having a roofer from PACE Home Solutions inspect your roof before the adjuster arrives can help ensure that no damage is overlooked.

4. Review your estimate
   Compare the insurance adjuster’s estimate with the contractor’s report. If anything seems off, a reputable contractor can help you negotiate a fair claim.

How PACE Home Solutions Can Help

At PACE Home Solutions, we specialize in roof inspections, repairs, and replacements caused by storm damage. We understand how stressful hail damage can be for homeowners, which is why we make the process easy and stress-free.

Here’s how we help:

• Free Roof Inspections: No pressure, no commitment. Just honest, detailed feedback.

• Insurance Claim Assistance: We walk you through the process from start to finish.

• Timely Repairs: We use high-quality materials and skilled crews to get the job done right—on time.

• Local Expertise: As a trusted name in the community, we know the weather challenges homeowners face and how to build roofs that last.

If your area was recently hit by a hailstorm, don’t wait. Contact PACE Home Solutions today for a free inspection and peace of mind.

Preventative Tips for Future Hailstorms

You can’t stop hail from falling, but you can reduce the impact it has on your home. Consider these preventative tips:

• Install impact-resistant shingles: These shingles are designed to hold up better against hail.

• Trim nearby trees: Overhanging branches can fall onto your roof during storms.

• Schedule annual roof inspections: Routine checks can catch minor damage before it becomes a major issue.

• Keep gutters clean: Proper drainage prevents water from backing up and damaging your roof structure.

Final Thoughts

Hailstorms might be short-lived, but the damage they leave behind can be long-lasting. Whether it’s cracked shingles, hidden leaks, or granule loss, your roof needs a full inspection after a storm. And if there’s damage, quick action is the key to avoiding more serious—and expensive—repairs.

The good news? You don’t have to go it alone. PACE Home Solutions is here to guide you through every step, from inspection to repair and even insurance claims. Our team is dedicated to protecting your home and giving you the confidence that your roof is ready to weather the next storm.

FAQs

1. How do I know if hail damaged my roof if I can't see anything from the ground?

Even if there’s no visible damage from the ground, hail can still harm your roof. The best way to know for sure is to schedule a professional inspection. PACE Home Solutions offers free, no-obligation roof assessments to help homeowners spot hidden damage.

2. Will my homeowner’s insurance cover hail damage?

In most cases, yes—hail damage is covered under standard homeowner’s insurance policies. However, coverage can vary depending on your policy and location. It’s important to act quickly after a storm and work with both your insurer and a professional roofer like PACE Home Solutions to ensure a smooth claims process.

3. How soon after a hailstorm should I check my roof?

You should check your roof as soon as it's safe to do so after a hailstorm. The sooner damage is found, the easier it is to file an insurance claim and make necessary repairs. If you’re unsure what to look for, PACE Home Solutions can handle the inspection for you.