Hail and high winds can damage a roof in minutes, and the damage is not always easy to see from the ground. Finding it early, documenting it well and hiring the right roofer can make the difference between a smooth insurance claim and a leaking roof months later.
Sifixit is a free referral service. Call the number on this page and you will be connected with an independent roofing provider where one serves your area. Calling costs nothing and you are never obliged to hire anyone.
Signs of hail and wind damage
After a storm, look for these signs from the ground and around the house.
- Dents on gutters, downspouts, vents and air conditioning units
- Shingle granules collecting in gutters or at downspouts
- Missing, lifted or creased shingles
- Dark spots on shingles where granules were knocked off
- Damaged flashing or roof vents
- New leaks or ceiling stains after the storm
What to do right now
Do not climb onto the roof after a storm. Watch for downed power lines and call 911 if anyone is in danger.
- Photograph the roof from the ground and any damage inside
- Photograph hail stones next to a coin or ruler for scale, if you can
- Put buckets under any leaks
- Ask a roofer about an emergency tarp if rain is coming
- Call your insurer and note the claim number
- Have a local, licensed roofer inspect the roof
How storms damage roofs
Hail impacts
Hail can bruise, crack or knock granules off shingles, which shortens the roof’s life.
Wind lift
Strong gusts lift shingles, break their seal and can tear them off.
Falling trees and branches
Limbs can puncture the roof and damage the framing.
Wind driven rain
Rain pushed sideways finds its way under damaged shingles and flashing.
How a storm damage inspection works
- The roofer inspects the roof surface, flashing, vents and gutters.
- Damage is photographed and marked, often on each slope of the roof.
- The attic is checked for leaks and damp roof boards.
- The roofer explains whether repair or replacement makes sense.
- You receive a written report you can share with your insurer.
Watch out for storm chasers
- After big storms, some out of town crews go door to door
- Check the roofer’s license, insurance and local address
- Never sign a contract on the spot
- Be wary of anyone offering to pay or waive your deductible, which is illegal in some states, including Texas
- Many policies set a deadline for storm claims, so do not wait too long
Questions to ask before you hire
- Can you show me photos of the hail or wind damage you found?
- Do you recommend repair or replacement, and why?
- Will you meet my insurance adjuster at the roof?
- Are you licensed and insured in my state?
- What warranty do you give on your work?
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if hail damaged my roof?
Dents on gutters, vents and air conditioners are good clues. Shingle damage is often only visible up close, so a roofer’s inspection is the safest way to know.
Does insurance cover hail damage?
Hail damage is usually covered, sometimes with a separate wind and hail deductible. Report it promptly.
How long do I have to file a storm claim?
It depends on your policy and your state. Some policies require claims within about a year of the storm, so check yours.
Can hail damage cause leaks later?
Yes. Bruised shingles may not leak at first but can wear out much faster, which is why early inspection helps.
Learn more
Our main roofing guide covers the wider picture, including what affects the cost and when to call a professional.
Sifixit is a free referral service and does not provide home services. Calls may be answered by a partner call center or connected directly to independent local providers, who are solely responsible for their work, pricing, licensing and insurance.