Hail storms move across the Houston area every year, and the damage they leave on roofs is often invisible from the ground. A roof can look fine from the driveway and still have bruised shingles that will start leaking a year or two later. Here is how to spot the signs of hail damage, what to do right after a storm and when to call a roofer.
Signs of Hail Damage on Asphalt Shingles
- Dark spots or bruises where hail knocked off the protective granules.
- Soft spots that feel like a bruise on an apple when pressed.
- Cracked or split shingles, especially along edges.
- Exposed fiberglass mat or shiny spots where the granules are gone.
- Granules in gutters and downspouts right after a storm.
- Missing pieces or broken shingle edges.
Signs on the Rest of the Roof and Home
Soft metals often show hail damage clearly, which helps confirm whether a storm was strong enough to damage the shingles too. Look for:
- Dents on gutters, downspouts, roof vents and flashing
- Dented or cracked AC units and window screens
- Chipped paint or dents on siding and fences
- Damaged skylights or broken vent caps
Why Hail Damage Matters Even Without a Leak
When hail knocks granules off, the shingle’s asphalt is exposed to Houston’s strong sun. That speeds up aging, and bruised spots can crack and let water in later. By the time a leak shows on the ceiling, the damage may have spread to the decking and insulation, and it can be harder to connect it to the original storm for insurance.
What to Do After a Hail Storm
- Stay off the roof. Wet or damaged roofs are slippery and dangerous.
- Check from the ground. Look at gutters, downspouts, AC units and vents for dents, and check for granules or shingle pieces in the yard.
- Take photos. Photograph anything you see, along with the date. If you can, note the size of the hail.
- Look inside. Check ceilings and the attic for water stains or dampness.
- Prevent further damage. If there is an active leak, a temporary tarp can protect the home until repairs are made.
- Get a professional inspection. A roofer can confirm whether there is real hail damage and document it with photos.
- Review your policy and contact your insurer if the damage looks significant. See our guide to filing a roof insurance claim in Texas.
Hail Damage vs Normal Wear
Not every mark on a roof is hail. Blistering, normal granule loss on an old roof and mechanical damage from foot traffic can look similar. Hail hits usually appear in a random pattern across one or more slopes, often matched by dents on soft metals. An experienced inspector can tell the difference, which matters because insurance typically covers storm damage but not normal aging.
Repair or Replace After Hail?
Light, scattered damage on a newer roof may be repairable. Widespread hits across several slopes, or damage to an already aging roof, often means a replacement is the better option. If you are planning a replacement, ask about impact-resistant Class 4 shingles, which handle hail better and may qualify for insurance discounts. Our roof replacement cost guide covers prices.
Get a Free Hail Damage Inspection
We inspect roofs after storms across Houston, including Katy, Cypress, Spring, The Woodlands and Pearland. You get dated photos and a clear explanation of what we found. Learn more about our storm and hail damage roof repair or book a free roof inspection.
FAQs
What size hail damages a roof?
Hail around one inch in diameter or larger can damage asphalt shingles, but smaller hail with strong wind can also cause damage, especially on older roofs.
How soon should I get my roof checked after hail?
As soon as it is safe. Early inspection helps you prevent leaks and gives you a clear record if you decide to file a claim.
Can hail damage cause leaks later?
Yes. Bruised shingles can crack and let water in months or even a couple of years after the storm.