How to Inspect Your Roof for Hail Damage: A Guide for Homeowners

After a hailstorm, your roof might look fine from the ground, but even small hailstones can cause significant damage that isn’t always visible. Hail damage can lead to costly repairs or even a full roof replacement if left unchecked. In this guide, Select Renovations will walk you through how to inspect your roof for hail damage, identify the signs of damage, and know when to call in a professional. Whether you’re trying to save money or just want peace of mind, learning how to assess your roof can help you protect your home.

Hail damage occurs when hailstones hit your roof, causing surface-level and structural damage. Depending on the size of the hailstone and the type of roof, the impact can range from minor dings to severe punctures that threaten the roof’s ability to protect your home.

Hailstorms are not uncommon in areas like Fraser, MI, and roofs are especially vulnerable. Asphalt shingles are this region’s most common roofing material and can be particularly susceptible to hailstorm damage. Even small hailstones can knock off protective granules from shingles, leading to leaks and roof deterioration over time.

Regular roof inspections after hailstorms are essential to catch damage early. By inspecting your roof for hail damage promptly, you can avoid issues like water infiltration, structural damage, and expensive roof repairs. Catching these issues early means you may only need minor repairs instead of a full roof replacement.

Some roofing materials are more vulnerable to hail damage than others. Here are a few examples:

Even newer, high-quality materials can sustain significant damage if the hailstones are large enough. Localized bruising or soft spots, especially on asphalt shingles, can reduce the lifespan of the roof if left unattended.

Common Signs of Hail Damage

As you inspect your roof, there are several key signs to look for:

Fraser, MI, experiences its share of severe weather, including hailstorms. Due to the region’s temperature fluctuations, roofs in Fraser can be more prone to hail damage than in other parts of the country. 

Make sure to inspect your roof for hail damage after any major storm to avoid long-term roof issues.

Before climbing onto your roof and taking the next step, make sure you’re taking the proper safety measures. Wear protective gear such as gloves and a hard hat​, use a sturdy ladder, and ensure it is on stable ground. If you’re uncomfortable climbing or the roof is steep, hire a professional for your hail-damage roof inspection.

Start by inspecting your home from the ground. Look for these signs:

If you feel comfortable getting on the roof, carefully check for hail impact points:

To inspect for granule loss, run your hand gently over the shingles. If you feel smooth, bare patches indicate significant granule loss, compromising the roof’s protective layer.

While on the roof, check the condition of skylights, ventilation systems, and chimneys. Look for any cracks, dents, or signs of damage that could lead to leaks inside your home.

Hailstorms don’t just damage roofs—they can also cause collateral damage to other parts of your home:

While you can handle many aspects of a roof inspection yourself, certain situations require the expertise of a professional roofer. If you notice any of the following, call a roofing expert immediately:

Select Renovations is familiar with the types of roof damage caused by the area’s hailstorms. We can perform a detailed inspection and provide estimates for repair or replacement for insurance claims.

Filing an insurance claim for hail damage can be daunting, but a detailed inspection and proper documentation can streamline the process. After you inspect your roof for hail damage, take clear photos of any areas showing visible damage. Make sure to document exterior and interior damage like roof leaks and ceiling stains and create a detailed report with your findings, including the date of the storm.

Some common mistakes homeowners make include missing deadlines or failing to provide thorough documentation. Having a professional roofing inspection can prevent your claim from being rejected due to insufficient evidence.

Roof Repair vs. Replacement: What’s the Right Choice?

Knowing if your roofing system needs repair or replacement depends on the type of damage caused by hail impact. A roof repair might be sufficient if the damage is minor. However, if there is significant granule loss, bruising, or punctures, a full roof replacement might be necessary.

You might also want to consider some cost and risk considerations. If the hail storm damage inspection determines several areas of damage, the cost of repairing multiple areas with dents and dings might be close to the cost of replacing the entire roof; replacing it might be more economical.

Regular roof maintenance can extend the life of your roof and minimize the need for repairs. Call for annual roof inspections and make minor repairs as needed. Consider installing impact-resistant roofing materials like asphalt shingles rated for hail or metal roofing . This will severely decrease your chances of extreme property damage from hail.

Stay prepared by signing up for weather alerts so you can take precautions before a hailstorm hits. Before any type of storm, ensure your roof is in good condition to minimize damage​.

Inspecting your roof for hail damage after every storm is essential to maintaining your home’s structural integrity. By following this guide, you’ll be able to identify roof hail damage, determine whether repairs are needed, and understand when it’s time to call a professional.

Don’t wait until leaks or further damage occur—be proactive with your roof care. If you suspect your roof has been damaged by hail, contact Select Renovations to conduct a thorough inspection and keep your home safe.

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