What Does Hail Damage Do to a Roof?

Can Pea-Sized Hail Damage a Roof?

Even seemingly harmless pea-sized hail can cause damage to your roof. While larger hailstones may cause more obvious dents and cracks, smaller hailstones can still impact the integrity of your roofing materials and incur hail damage roof repair cost. 

Over time, repeated exposure to hail can weaken shingles and other roofing components, leading to leaks and structural issues. While most property owners — residential or commercial — expect to see major divots or obvious cracks in their shingles, it’s not always that obvious. In some cases, upon closer inspection, you can identify areas of damage in the way of concentrated spots of missing granules. 

Granules are used on asphalt shingles to protect your roof from the sun. Though the initial damage may seem minimal, exposure to wind, rain and snow causes erosion. Before you know it, those tiny, difficult-to-spot blemishes are major divots in your shingles. When large portions of your roof are exposed to UV rays, the damage compounds. Sun damage dries out your roof and causes cracking, which eventually exposes your home to leakage and water damage.

What Does Hail Damage Look Like on a House?

Identifying hail damage on your roof can be challenging, especially from ground level. Common signs include dented or cracked shingles, granule loss, exposed underlayment, and damaged flashing. 

Inside your home, look for signs of water leaks or water stains on ceilings and walls, as these could indicate roof damage. If you suspect hail damage, it's essential to have a professional inspection to assess the extent of the damage accurately — both indoors and out.

How Much Hail Damage to Replace a Roof?

One of the first questions homeowners ask after a hailstorm is: How much damage is enough to replace a roof? The answer, unfortunately, varies depending on the severity of the damage. 

Hail can cause dents, cracks and granule loss on roofing materials, compromising their effectiveness in protecting your home from the elements. While minor damage may only require repairs, extensive damage may necessitate a full roof replacement to ensure the safety and longevity of your home. During a professional inspection, the local contractor or roofing company can assess the hail damage to a home and provide quotes. 

Should I Make a Hail Claim?

Deciding whether to file a hail damage roof insurance claim can be a daunting task for homeowners. Factors to consider include the extent of the damage, your deductible and potential premium increases. 

If the damage is extensive and exceeds your deductible, filing a claim may be beneficial, as it can help cover the cost of repairs or replacement. However, if the damage is minor and falls below your deductible, it may be more cost-effective to pay for repairs out of pocket. Consulting with a trusted roofing contractor — one that offers a complimentary, no-obligation roofing inspection — and then your insurance provider can help you make an informed decision.

Does Hail Damage Affect Home Insurance Premiums?

Many homeowners wonder if filing a hail damage claim will lead to increased insurance premiums. The answer typically depends on your insurance provider and policy. In most cases, filing a single weather-related claim, such as for hail damage, is unlikely to result in a significant premium increase. However, repeated claims or living in an area prone to severe weather may lead to higher premiums. It's essential to review your policy and consult with your insurance agent to understand how filing a hail damage claim may impact your premiums. 

Depending on your policy and provider, you have a predetermined amount of time in which you are entitled to compensation for damage. Once the window has closed, your provider is no longer liable.

Because you may not realize the full extent of the damage your roof has sustained for months or even years, it’s important to have your roof inspected after a hailstorm. Hail damage can have significant implications for the health and safety of your home. From minor dents to extensive cracks, hail can compromise the integrity of your roof and lead to costly repairs or replacements. If you suspect hail damage, don't wait to take action. Timeliness is critical for the health of your roof and ensuring you can get the best coverage from your insurance. Contact a reputable roofing contractor, like Heartland, to assess the damage and determine the best course of action.