Hailstorms can move in fast and cause extensive damage in just minutes. While it’s easy to spot large dents on your car or shattered windows, identifying hail damage on your roof or siding isn’t always so straightforward, especially if you have materials like wood shake, asphalt shingle, or metal roofing. Knowing what hail damage looks like is the first step toward safeguarding your home, filing an insurance claim, and scheduling the necessary repairs.
At Liberty Restoration Group, we specialize in identifying and repairing hail damage, particularly to wood shake roofing. Here’s what every homeowner should know about spotting hail damage after a storm and how we can help restore your roof to like-new condition.
Hail Damage by Roofing Type
Different materials respond differently to hail, depending on the density, wind speed, and size of the hailstones.
- Wood Shake/Wood Shingle Roofs: Hail can cause bruises, splits, and crushed wood fibers. A cracked wood shingle might not leak right away, but the damage weakens your roof’s waterproofing and can lead to water damage later.
- Asphalt Shingle Roofs: You might notice missing granules, dark spots, or dents. Hail often dislodges the protective coating, leaving shingles more susceptible to UV damage, mold, and wear and tear.
- Metal Roofs: Look for dents and dimples caused by high-velocity hail. While metal is incredibly durable, visible marks can impact aesthetics and void a warranty.
- Tile Roofs: Cracked or broken tiles can occur when hailstones impact at high speed, particularly if debris is also present during the thunderstorm or tornado.
No matter the material, damage that goes unaddressed can lead to more serious issues — such as leaks, mildew, and even attic or ceiling stains.
Signs of Hail Damage to Look For
Here are the most common signs of hail damage you should look for around your roof and home:
Roof Bruising or Cracking
On wood shake roofs, bruising appears as dark, soft spots. Cracks often run along the grain of the wood, caused by hail impact and rapid changes in temperature from the storm.
Damaged Flashing
Look at the flashing around chimneys, vents, and valleys. If it’s dented or lifted, water can easily seep underneath, causing internal issues.
Dented Downspouts or Gutters
Dents or dings are telltale signs of hail impact. Hail-damaged gutters can also lead to poor drainage, resulting in water damage on your deck, concrete, or foundation.
Chipped Siding and Paint
Vinyl siding may crack or chip under hail assault, while the paint on wood siding can show signs of impact with circular chips or peeling.
Dampness in Attic
Don’t forget to check your attic for signs of leaks, mold, or mildew. Water can sneak in through even the smallest breach, especially if hail was driven by wind traveling at 60+ miles per hour.
Why Quick Inspections Matter
After a storm, many homeowners don’t realize their roof has been damaged until it’s too late. Hail impact might not cause immediate leaks, but the structural integrity of your roof could be compromised. Over time, that can lead to:
- Rotting wood
- Warped decking
- Mold or mildew in insulation
- Ruined ceiling drywall or issues from excess moisture
- Costly waterproofing repairs
A professional inspection from Liberty Restoration Group can catch this early. Our experienced team knows what to look for, from subtle wood shake bruising to hidden flashing damage, and we will spring into action ASAP to provide roof storm damage repair in the Chicagoland area.
Insurance and Warranty Coverage for Hail Damage
Homeowners often wonder if hail damage is covered under their home insurance policy. The good news? Most policies in the United States include coverage for storm, hail, and wind damage, especially when damage is sudden and not due to regular wear and tear.
That said, acting quickly is key. Insurance companies may deny claims if too much time passes between the storm and your report. Plus, waiting can cause more deterioration, making the damage look like normal aging instead of storm-related. Liberty Restoration Group assists clients with documenting hail damage and navigating their roofing insurance claims so the process goes smoothly.
Also, be sure to review your warranty if your roof is newer. Some roofing warranties become void if repairs aren’t done promptly after a weather-related event.
Call Liberty Restoration Group for a Professional Hail Damage Inspection
When severe weather hits, your roof is the first line of defense. Understanding what hail damage looks like and acting quickly can save you from major water, mold, and structural problems later on. Whether your home features a classic wood shake roof, asphalt shingles, or vinyl siding, Liberty Restoration Group is here to help.
Our friendly and professional team provides detailed roof inspections, helps homeowners navigate insurance claims, and restores properties with expert craftsmanship. Don’t wait until a minor bruise turns into a major leak.
Call Liberty Restoration Group today for a comprehensive storm damage inspection and keep your home protected from whatever the sky throws your way.
