Hail and Storm Damage Roof Repair

What are the signs of hail damage on a roof?

Hail leaves round, dark marks on asphalt shingles where the granules have been knocked loose. Up close, some hits feel soft, like a bruise, which is one of the things a roofing specialist checks during an inspection. Bigger hail can crack or break shingles. Metal surfaces such as gutters, vents and flashing often show small dents.

From the ground, the easiest clues are dented gutters and downspouts, granules washing out of downspouts, and damage to other things outside such as air conditioner fins and patio furniture. These are reasons to have the roof inspected, not proof of damage on their own: dark spots, loose granules or small dents do not prove what caused them or that the roof needs replacing.

What kinds of storm damage happen besides hail?

Strong winds lift and tear off shingles, especially along edges and ridges. Falling branches can puncture the roof. Heavy, wind-driven rain can find its way through weak flashing that holds up fine in calm weather.

Signs your roof has storm damage

• Dark spots or bruises on shingles after hail.
• Missing shingles or shingle pieces in the yard.
• Dents on gutters, vents and downspouts.
• New leaks or stains after a storm.
• Branches or debris on the roof.
• Granules collecting in gutters.

What should I do after a storm?

First check for leaks inside and move valuables away from any water. Then look around the outside of the house from the ground and take dated photos of anything that looks damaged. Stay off the roof.

If the roof has an opening and rain is coming, a temporary cover may be needed to prevent more damage inside. Then call to arrange a roof inspection to get a full picture of what the storm did.

What happens during a storm damage visit?

1. 1

   Call to arrange the inspection

   Call once the storm has passed and the roof is safe to walk.

2. 2

   Full roof check

   Each slope, plus flashing, vents and gutters, is checked for hail and wind damage.

3. 3

   Photo record

   Damage is photographed so you have a record of the roof after the storm.

4. 4

   Recommendation

   You get a clear answer on whether the roof can be repaired or needs replacing.

5. 5

   Written estimate

   You receive a written estimate for the work.

Can storm damage be repaired, or does the roof need replacing?

It depends on how widespread the damage is. If hail or wind hit a few shingles or one slope, a localized repair is often possible. When damage covers most of the roof, a repair will not hold and replacement is the better long-term answer. The inspection shows which situation you are in, with photos of each damaged area.

How do I document roof damage for my insurance claim?

Write down the date of the storm. Keep photos of hail stones, damage outside the house and any leaks inside, plus the photos from your roof inspection and the written estimate. Keep everything in one folder so it is easy to share with your insurance company.

Your insurance claim is between you and your insurer. Texas Roofing & Exteriors provides the inspection, photos and written estimate for the repair.

Should I replace my roof with impact-resistant shingles after hail?

If your roof needs replacing after a hail storm, Class 4 impact-resistant shingles are worth considering. They are tested to resist impacts better than standard shingles, though no roof is completely hail-proof.

Common questions