ROOF HAIL DAMAGE: WHY IT'S UNIQUE

Hail damage isn’t your run-of-the-mill roof problem. Here’s how it differs from other types of damage like wind, falling branches, or wear and tear:

• Random Impact Pattern:
  • Unlike wind that tears shingles in one direction or a branch that smashes a single spot, hail hits like a scattergun. It leaves dents, cracks, or granule loss all over your roof, often in no clear pattern. This makes it trickier to assess without a pro’s eye.
• Granule Loss:
  • Hail’s big calling card is knocking off the protective granules on asphalt shingles. Other damage—like wind lifting shingles or age-related wear—doesn’t strip granules the same way. This loss exposes the shingle’s core, speeding up deterioration.
• Subtle Metal Damage:
  • On metal roofs, hail leaves dents that might not leak right away, unlike a branch puncture or wind-blown tear. These dents can weaken the roof’s coating over time, setting you up for rust or leaks down the line.
• Flashing Vulnerability:
  • Hail can bend or dent flashing around vents or chimneys without tearing it, unlike wind that might rip it loose. These small dings can loosen seals, letting water in where you least expect it.
• Insurance Nuances:
  • Hail damage often qualifies for insurance claims, but it’s unique because it needs detailed proof—like photos of granule loss or dent patterns—to show it wasn’t just normal wear. Other damage, like a tree fall, is usually more obvious to insurers.