How do I know if hail damaged my roof?
Hail damage is often hard to see from the ground. Hail can knock the granules off shingles and crack the mat underneath without leaving a hole. The easiest signs to spot are dents on metal around your home, such as vents, gutters, downspouts, window screens, air conditioning units and fence caps.
What hail does to shingles
Hail rarely punches a hole through an asphalt shingle. Instead, it knocks the protective granules off and can crack the mat underneath.
Once the granules are gone, the shingle is exposed to the sun and wears out faster. A roof with hail damage may not leak right away, but it can start leaking later.
Check the metal around your home
Metal dents more easily than shingles show damage, so it is a good place to look first. Check your vents, gutters, downspouts, window screens, air conditioning unit and any metal fence caps.
Dents on these items do not always mean your roof was damaged, but they are a good reason to schedule a roof inspection.
Look inside your home
Check the ceilings on the top floor for water stains, especially in the corners of rooms. If you can safely get into the attic, look for damp spots or stains on the wood.
What not to do
Do not climb onto your roof. A wet or damaged roof is dangerous, and a professional inspection is the safest way to check for damage.
If someone knocks on your door after a storm, take the time to read anything you are asked to sign before you sign it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a claim?
Filing deadlines vary by policy and are often counted from the date of the storm. Check your policy and schedule an inspection soon after a storm.
Will a claim raise my premium?
Weather-related claims are generally treated differently from other claims, but it varies by insurance company. Your insurance agent can tell you more.
My neighbor got a new roof. Will I need one too?
Not necessarily. Hail can fall unevenly, and two homes on the same street can have very different damage. An inspection will tell you for sure.
