The short answer
Signs of Impact
The first clue is often a scattered pattern of small, round dents or divots across the shingle surface. These are the places where hail struck. The impact crushes the protective mineral granules, leaving a darker, rougher texture that stands out against the surrounding roof.
On a sunny day, these spots can look like dark patches or bruises. Run your hand gently over the roof; the damaged areas will feel gritty or slightly depressed compared to the smooth, granule-covered parts. This is a clear sign that the shingle's protective layer has been compromised.
Bullet points:
Dark, round spots where granules are missing
A gritty or pitted texture on the shingle surface
Dents or depressions that you can feel with your hand
Granules collecting in gutters or at the base of downspouts
Cracks and Splits
Larger hail can do more than just bruise the surface. It can crack the shingle itself. Look for hairline fractures that radiate from a point of impact, or longer splits that run along the length of a shingle. These cracks are often hard to see from the ground.
A close inspection is key. Check around chimneys, vents, and roof edges, where hail tends to strike at an angle. A cracked shingle may not leak right away, but it weakens the roof's defense against rain and the next storm. These splits can also let moisture seep into the decking below.
Hairline cracks radiating from an impact point
Long splits running along the shingle's length
Torn or lifted corners where hail hit hard
Shingle edges that are broken or chipped
Holes and Missing Granules
In severe cases, hail can punch a clean hole straight through a shingle. You might see a small, round opening with a dark center. These holes are a direct path for water to enter your home, so they demand quick attention.
Even without a hole, a heavy loss of granules is a major warning. When the surface layer is gone, the asphalt underneath is exposed to the sun. Over time, this can cause the shingle to dry out, crack, and fail much sooner than it should. Check for bare patches that look smooth and shiny.
Small, round holes punched through the shingle
Exposed, shiny asphalt where granules have worn away
Bald spots that feel smooth, not gritty
Shingle material that feels brittle or crumbly to the touch
Checking from the Ground
You can start by inspecting from the ground with a pair of binoculars. Look for any obvious discoloration, missing tabs, or uneven shadows on the roof. Pay special attention to the slopes that face the sun, as those often show damage more clearly.
A ground check is a good first step, but it can miss subtle damage. If you see any signs of impact, or if you suspect a storm was severe, consider a closer look. Walking on a roof is risky, so if you are not comfortable, let a professional handle the inspection from the roof surface.
Use binoculars to scan the roof from a safe distance
Look for uneven shadows or discolored patches
Check the ground for granules washed out of gutters
Note the orientation of the roof to the storm's path
What to Do Next
If you find hail damage, act quickly. The longer water sits in a crack or hole, the more it can soak into the roof deck and the attic. A simple tarp over the damaged area can help until repairs are made.
Document what you see with photos from the ground or from a ladder, if it is safe. Then, contact a local water damage pro to assess the extent of the problem. They can check for hidden damage to the underlayment and advise on the right repair approach, whether that means replacing a few shingles or a larger section of the roof.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to understand what documentation is needed for a potential claim. A thorough inspection report is useful for that process.
Talk to someone now
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (480) 898-4279Frequently asked questions
Can hail damage be hidden?
Yes, hail damage can be hidden. Granules may be knocked off the underside of a shingle, or cracks may be on the back side. Also, damage to the underlayment or decking below the shingles can go unnoticed until a leak appears. A professional inspection can reveal these issues.
How long does it take for hail damage to leak?
It varies. Some cracks leak during the next rainstorm, while others may not leak for months or years as the shingle continues to deteriorate. The sooner you address the damage, the lower the risk of water intrusion and costly interior repairs.
Should I replace the whole roof after hail?
Not always. If only a few shingles are cracked or bruised, replacing those individual shingles may be enough. If the damage is widespread or the shingles are old and brittle, a full replacement might be more practical. A professional assessment can help you decide.