The short answer
Why Hail Damage Hides
Hailstones strike with enough force to bruise or crack roofing materials without breaking them open. A shingle can lose granules or develop a hairline fracture that is not visible from the ground. The damage may be hidden under layers of shingles, along valleys, or around flashing and vents.
Your roof's slope and height also play a role. From the ground, you see only the general shape. Small dents in metal, lifted shingle edges, or cracked sealant around chimneys are easy to miss. Even a close look from a ladder may not reveal the full extent of impact damage.
- Granule loss on asphalt shingles
- Dents or pitting on metal roofing
- Cracked or lifted flashing around vents
- Hairline fractures in clay or concrete tiles
- Damaged sealant at roof penetrations
- Soft spots where hail bruised the deck
Signs You Might Notice Later
The first clue is often a leak during the next rain. Water finds the path of least resistance through a cracked shingle or a lifted seam. You might see a damp spot on your ceiling or a stain that grows over time. By then, the underlying wood or insulation may already be wet.
Other signs include granules in your gutters, which indicate shingle erosion, or small dents in your gutters themselves. If you have a metal roof, look for shiny spots where hail knocked off the protective coating. These are clues that the roof surface has taken a hit.
Why a Roof-Level Check Matters
Seeing the roof surface up close is the only way to catch many hail impacts. A professional can walk the roof, feel for soft spots, and inspect every penetration and seam. This is especially important after a severe hailstorm, because small cracks can widen over time and lead to bigger leaks.
If you live in Orem, keep your roofer's contact information handy. A roof inspection after a hailstorm can help you decide whether repairs are needed before water gets inside. The pros can document damage for your insurance claim and recommend the right fix.
What to Do After a Hailstorm
Act quickly. Check your attic for any damp spots or daylight coming through the roof. Look at your gutters and downspouts for granules or dents. If you see any sign of impact, arrange for a roof inspection soon. The longer you wait, the more chance water has to work its way in.
Take photos of any visible damage from the ground and from a ladder if it is safe. Keep a record of the storm date and the size of the hail. This information helps your insurance company understand the situation. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
When to Call in the Pros
If you suspect hail damage but cannot confirm it from the ground, a professional roof inspection is the next step. The pros have the training and tools to find hidden impact points. They can also check for water damage that may already be developing in your attic or walls.
A thorough inspection can save you from costly repairs later. The cost of an inspection often depends on the size and slope of your roof, but it is typically a small fraction of the cost of a major leak repair. If you have a complex roof with many valleys and penetrations, the pros may need more time to check everything.
Talk to someone now
Call (801) 876-1119 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (801) 876-1119Frequently asked questions
How long after a hailstorm should I check my roof?
Check within a few days, especially before the next rain. Walk around your home and look for granules in gutters, dents on metal, or missing shingles. If you see signs, schedule an inspection as soon as possible.
Can hail damage cause a leak right away?
Sometimes, but often it takes a while. A cracked shingle may not leak until the next heavy rain. By then, water may have soaked into the decking. That is why early inspection matters.
Will my insurance cover hail damage?
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Most standard homeowners policies cover hail damage, but you should review your policy and contact your insurance company to confirm. Document the damage with photos and keep records of the storm.