Hailstorms can cause significant damage to a roof, but the effects aren't always immediately visible. In fact, many homeowners assume their roof escaped the storm because they don't see missing shingles or active leaks.

Unfortunately, hail damage can be subtle, and even minor impacts may shorten the lifespan of your roofing system if left unaddressed.

The safest and most accurate inspection is one performed by a qualified roofing professional. Climbing onto a roof can be dangerous, and documenting hail damage for an insurance claim requires experience to distinguish storm damage from normal wear and tear.

Why Hail Damage Isn't Always Obvious

The size of the hail, wind speed, roofing material, the age of the roof and the angle at which hail strikes all influence the severity of the damage. Sometimes hail removes protective granules from asphalt shingles, creates bruising beneath the surface or damages flashing without causing obvious signs that can be seen from the ground.

In many cases, a roof may continue functioning for months before hidden damage begins to cause leaks or premature deterioration.

That's why it's a good idea to have your roof evaluated after a significant hailstorm, even if everything appears normal.

Signs You Can Safely Spot From the Ground

After the storm, look for signs such as:

• Shingle pieces or roofing debris around your home
• Granules collecting in gutters or at the bottom of downspouts
• Dents in gutters, downspouts, flashing or metal roof accessories
• Damage to siding, window screens, fences or outdoor furniture
• Broken tree branches or damaged landscaping
• Water stains appearing on ceilings or in the attic after the storm

What Roofers Look for During an Inspection

Professional roofing contractors are trained to recognize hail damage that isn't visible from the ground. During an inspection, they may look for:

• Bruised or softened areas on asphalt shingles
• Granule loss exposing the underlying asphalt
• Cracked or fractured shingles
• Damage to ridge caps
• Dented roof vents and flashing
• Damaged pipe boots and other roof penetrations
• Impact marks on metal roof components
• Signs that previous damage or aging are unrelated to the storm

Roofers also evaluate the overall condition of the roof to determine whether damage is isolated or widespread.

Having a professional inspection performed before filing a claim can help ensure damage is thoroughly identified and documented before the insurance company conducts its own evaluation. If the roofer is present for the adjuster’s inspection, they can also point out areas of concern and help reduce the risk that significant damage or the full extent of the repairs is overlooked.

Common Documentation Mistakes That Can Delay Claims

Homeowners sometimes unintentionally make mistakes that complicate or delay an insurance claim. Some common issues include:

• Waiting too long before documenting the damage
• Attempting DIY roof repairs instead of leaving the work to a professional
• Having permanent repairs completed before the insurance company has adequately documented and inspected the damage
• Throwing away damaged materials that may help support the claim
• Assuming visible damage tells the whole story

Temporary measures may sometimes be necessary to prevent additional damage, such as covering an opening that is allowing rain into the home. Whenever possible, photograph the damage first, save receipts and avoid altering damaged roofing materials more than necessary before the insurance company has had an opportunity to inspect them.

Perhaps the biggest mistake is attempting to perform a close-up roof inspection or repairs without the proper safety equipment or experience.

Walking on a potentially damaged roof increases the risk of falls and may even worsen certain types of roofing damage.

What to Do After a Hailstorm in DFW

1. Walk around your property and safely observe visible signs of damage from the ground
2. Take photos of any damage you can safely document, such as dents in gutters or damaged landscaping
3. Check inside your home for new water stains or signs of leaks
4. Schedule a professional roof inspection as soon as practical
5. Keep records of the storm, inspection reports, repair estimates and communications with your insurance company

Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection With Our Roofing Professionals in Benbrook, TX

If your home has recently experienced a hailstorm, or you simply want peace of mind, contact Billy Harris Roofing today at (817) 249-3338 or (800) 320-6074 to schedule a professional roof inspection.