Of all roofing problems that affect homeowners, hail damage is the most common. Hail can pummel the surface of your roof and cause a lot of havoc with its sharp pointy bits of ice. If structural damage occurs along with damaged shingles, it could mean hefty costs to repair or even replace your roof.

Damages caused by a hailstorm

The biggest problem with hailstorms is that they can cause a lot of damage to your roof in a very short amount of time. Large hailstones can tear through shingles or break tiles, allowing water, wind, and even hail to penetrate into interior spaces. Once inside, water may leak through ceilings or walls, rusting out plumbing and appliances.


Water damage to ceilings is particularly problematic because it may go unnoticed for some time. Ceilings are often painted or covered with tile, making it difficult to detect moisture problems until the mold has already started growing.

How to deal with hailstorm damage

Call a professional

The first step to dealing with hail damage is to call a professional roofing contractor. They will inspect your property and determine the extent of the damage. In some cases, they’ll be able to repair your roof right there on the spot. They’ll also be able to tell you whether or not you need a new roof, which will help you make an informed decision about what to do next.


If water is leaking from your gutters or downspouts during a storm, hail could have caused cracks in the system that need to be fixed before they cause more serious issues with your roof. Look for broken or missing pieces and try not to stand directly below them during a storm until you’ve made repairs.


Look for dents or deep scratches on the surface of your roof. If they’re there, you know there’s hail damage—and could be further damage underneath that you can’t see.


If you have asphalt shingles and hail has damaged multiple shingles, replacing the whole row is usually best because it creates a more seamless look after replacement. If only one or two shingles are damaged, try to match the color or texture of the surrounding shingles when you replace them. 


You can buy matching asphalt shingles at most home improvement stores. Don’t use roof sealants or roof cement over damaged areas because they will trap water under the surface of your roof.


Generally, if your roof is damaged by hail, you will need to replace some of its parts. Roofs are made up of shingles and underlayment, both of which can be damaged in a hailstorm. You should examine your roof closely once the storm is over, and you will be able to see where the damage is and how much fixing it will cost you.