How to Identify Wind and Hail Damage on Your Roof

Your roof is the silent protector of your home. It takes the brunt of every gust of wind, every hailstone, and every driving rain without asking for thanks. But storms leave their marks, and those marks aren’t always easy to see—especially from the ground. Knowing what to look for after a severe weather event can make the difference between quick, affordable repairs and costly, widespread damage down the road.

The challenge is that wind and hail damage can be subtle, especially in the early stages. Many homeowners only discover a problem when a leak appears or shingles start to go missing. By then, the problem is often bigger than it would have been if addressed early. This guide will walk you through the telltale signs of wind and hail damage, explain why they matter, and help you understand when to call in a professional inspection.

Why Storm Damage Isn’t Always Obvious

It’s natural to think that if your roof survived the storm without a tree falling on it, you’re in the clear. Unfortunately, that’s not always true.

• Wind damage can lift shingles just enough to break their seal, leaving them vulnerable to water intrusion, even if they appear intact from a distance.

• Hail damage can crush the protective granules on asphalt shingles or crack other roofing materials without leaving a gaping hole.

• Some forms of damage develop slowly—moisture seeps in, materials weaken, and problems surface months later.

  
  

That’s why a visual check from the ground is only the first step, not the final answer.

Understanding Wind Damage on a Roof

Wind damage happens when gusts are strong enough to lift, bend, or tear roofing materials. In areas prone to hurricanes, straight-line winds, or frequent storms, roofs take a beating over time.

Signs of wind damage include:

Missing shingles

If you spot bare spots or patches where shingles should be, wind may have lifted and carried them away. This exposes the underlayment and roof decking to direct weather exposure.

Lifted shingles

Even if the shingle hasn’t blown away, high winds can break the seal that holds it in place. From the ground, lifted shingles can be tricky to see, but they often catch light differently and may flap slightly in the wind.

Creased shingles

When wind bends a shingle back on itself, it can leave a visible crease across its width. These shingles may remain in place for a while but are structurally compromised.

Damaged flashing

Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights can loosen or bend during a storm. This is especially dangerous because flashing is a key barrier against leaks.

Debris patterns

Wind often drives branches, leaves, and other debris across your roof. Heavy debris can cause impact damage, while lighter debris can scratch protective surfaces.

Understanding Hail Damage on a Roof

Hail damage is different from wind damage—it’s caused by the direct impact of hailstones, which can range from pea-sized to golf ball-sized or larger. The speed and density of the hail, combined with the angle of impact, determine how severe the damage will be.

Signs of hail damage include:

1. Loss of granules on asphalt shingles

   
   

   Asphalt shingles are coated with small mineral granules that protect the underlying material from the sun’s UV rays. Hail can knock these granules loose, leaving dark, exposed patches. Over time, these spots become brittle and prone to leaks.

   
   

2. Soft spots or bruising

   
   

   If you press gently on a hail-impacted area, it may feel softer than the surrounding surface. This is a sign the shingle’s structure has been compromised beneath the surface.

   
   

3. Circular dents or divots

   
   

   On metal roofing, gutters, or flashing, hail often leaves small, rounded dents. These are easier to spot on smooth surfaces than on textured shingles.

   
   

4. Impact marks on vents and skylights

   
   

   Even if your shingles appear fine, check for hail dents on metal vents or chips on skylight glass. These signs often indicate the roof took a significant hit.

How to Safely Inspect Your Roof After a Storm

While climbing onto your roof might be tempting, it’s risky without the right equipment and experience. Instead, start with a ground-level check and binoculars.

From the ground:

• Walk around your home and look for missing shingles, visible flashing damage, or debris piled in unusual spots.

• Check gutters and downspouts for shingle granules—these look like coarse, black sand. A heavy granule deposit often means your roof took hail damage.

• Inspect siding, fences, and decks for hail marks; if these are present, your roof likely has similar impacts.

  
  

From the attic:

• Look for damp insulation, water stains, or daylight coming through the roof boards.

• Listen during the next rainstorm for drips or tapping that could indicate a leak.

  
  

For anything beyond this initial check, it’s best to have a qualified roofing or insurance professional conduct a close-up inspection. They know where hidden damage tends to appear and how to document it for a claim.

Why Early Detection Matters

Ignoring minor wind or hail damage can have big consequences. Once the outer layer of protection is compromised, water can infiltrate your roof system. This leads to:

• Rotting roof decking

• Mold growth in insulation

• Damage to ceilings, walls, and electrical systems

• Higher repair costs down the line

  
  

Insurance companies also set deadlines for filing storm damage claims—waiting too long can mean missing your window for coverage.

Working with Your Insurance

If you suspect wind or hail damage, documenting it quickly and clearly is key to a smooth insurance process.

Steps to take:

1. Photograph all visible damage from the ground and from inside your home.

2. Note the date and time of the storm.

3. Keep copies of local weather reports confirming wind speeds or hail size.

4. Contact a trusted professional to perform an inspection and prepare a report.

   
   

A professional’s documentation carries more weight than a homeowner’s alone, especially if the damage is subtle. They can also meet with the insurance adjuster to point out issues that might otherwise be overlooked.

Preventive Measures for Future Storms

While you can’t stop the weather, you can reduce your roof’s vulnerability.

• Schedule regular roof inspections, especially before and after storm season.

• Keep trees trimmed to prevent branches from scraping or falling onto the roof.

• Make sure gutters are clean and securely attached to handle heavy rain.

• Repair small issues—like loose shingles or damaged flashing—before they worsen.

When to Call a Professional

If you notice any of the signs described above—or if you’re unsure whether your roof was affected—it’s wise to bring in an expert. Professionals have the tools to safely assess your roof, the training to spot hidden problems, and the experience to provide accurate repair estimates.

Even if you’re comfortable climbing a ladder, some damage is invisible to the untrained eye. The risk of missing it—and paying for bigger repairs later—isn’t worth it.

Building Trust Before the Ladder Comes Out

We understand that inviting someone to inspect your roof is a matter of trust. Our approach is simple: give you a clear, honest assessment without pressure. If we find damage, we’ll explain it in plain language and show you exactly what we see, so you can make an informed decision.

Our goal isn’t to sell you something you don’t need—it’s to ensure you have the information and support to protect your home.

Wind and hail damage can range from glaringly obvious to nearly invisible, but both can weaken your roof and threaten your home’s safety. Knowing the signs—and acting quickly—can prevent small issues from becoming major headaches.

If you’ve experienced a recent storm or want peace of mind before the next one, now is the time to act. Let us inspect your roof, document any damage, and guide you through the next steps. Protecting your home starts with knowing its condition, and we’re here to help you do exactly that.