Skip to main content

How to Spot Hail Damage on Your Roof (TX Guide)

What Does Hail Damage Look Like on a Roof?

After a hail storm sweeps through West Texas, many homeowners wonder if their roof sustained damage. The truth is, most hail damage is not visible from the ground. That's why professional inspections are critical — but knowing what to look for can help you decide when to call.

Signs of Hail Damage on Asphalt Shingles

Granule Loss is the most common indicator. Check your gutters and downspouts — if you see an unusual amount of dark, sand-like granules, your shingles are losing their protective coating. On the roof itself, you'll notice dark spots where granules have been knocked away, exposing the asphalt underneath.

Random Dents or Bruises appear as soft spots when you press on the shingle. They may not be immediately obvious visually, but a trained inspector can identify them by touch. These bruises compromise the shingle's waterproofing ability.

Cracked or Split Shingles occur from larger hailstones. You'll see clean fracture lines that weren't there before the storm. These cracks will eventually allow water infiltration.

Signs of Hail Damage on Metal Roofs

Metal roofs handle hail differently. Look for:

  • Cosmetic dents — small dimples in the metal panels
  • Dents around penetrations — vents, skylights, and flashing are particularly vulnerable
  • Damaged seams — where panels connect can be compromised by impact

Other Areas to Check

Don't just look at the roof surface. Hail damages:

  • Gutters and downspouts — dents and dings
  • Window screens — tears or punctures
  • Siding — chips or cracks
  • AC units — bent fins on the condenser
  • Fence tops and mailboxes — dents on horizontal surfaces

Hail Size vs. Damage Severity

Not all hail causes the same damage. Here's what to expect based on hailstone diameter:

West Texas regularly produces hail in the 1.5-2.5 inch range during spring and early summer storm season (March through June). The Lubbock-Amarillo corridor averages 3-5 significant hail events per year.

Can You Inspect Your Own Roof?

From the ground, you can check for:

  • Dented gutters and downspouts
  • Granules accumulated at downspout discharge points
  • Visible cracks or missing shingles
  • Damage to other exterior surfaces (siding, window screens, AC units)

What requires a professional:

  • Walking the roof surface (dangerous without proper equipment)
  • Identifying bruised shingles by touch
  • Distinguishing hail damage from normal aging
  • Documenting damage in a format insurance companies accept
  • Identifying damage to flashing, boots, and penetrations

Never walk on your own roof after a storm. Damaged shingles can be slippery, and compromised decking may not support weight safely. A professional inspection is always free from Candor — there's no reason to risk injury.

The Insurance Timeline: Don't Wait

If you notice ANY of these signs, or if your neighborhood experienced a confirmed hail event, call Candor Construct & Roofing for a free inspection. We document everything with photos and detailed reports — whether you file a claim or not.

Important: Most insurance policies have a time limit for filing hail damage claims (typically 1-2 years in Texas). Don't wait.

Here's the typical timeline after a hail event:

  • Day 1-7: Get a professional inspection and documentation
  • Day 7-14: File your claim with your insurance carrier
  • Day 14-30: Adjuster visits to assess damage
  • Day 30-60: Claim approved, contractor selected, work scheduled
  • Day 60-90: Roof replacement completed

The longer you wait, the more secondary damage (water intrusion, mold, wood rot) can occur — and insurance companies may argue that damage was caused by neglect rather than the storm.

Why Choose Candor for Storm Damage Inspections?

  • Free, no-obligation inspections
  • Detailed photo documentation for insurance
  • We work with ALL major insurance carriers
  • No pressure — we'll tell you honestly if you need a new roof or not
  • Local West Texas company — not storm chasers

*Serving Lubbock, Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Abilene, San Angelo, Wichita Falls, and all surrounding communities. Call (806) 224-2836 for your free inspection.*