How to Tell If Your Roof Is Ready for Hail Season
Is Your Roof Ready For the Hail Season?
Hail season can turn minor roof issues into expensive leaks overnight. If you’re wondering how to tell if your roof is ready for hail season, a quick hail-readiness check can reveal problems before the first storm hits. In this guide, we’ll show you how to assess your roof’s hail readiness, what upgrades make the biggest difference, and when it’s time to call in a pro.
How to Assess Your Roof for Hail Season
Step 1. Scan for Visible Wear and Granule Loss
From the ground with binoculars, look for dark bald spots, curled edges, or missing shingles. Excessive granules in gutters signal aging shingles that are more vulnerable to hail impacts.
Step 2 . Inspect Flashing, Vents, and Penetrations
Hail exploits weak seams. Check metal flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vents for lifting, rust, or gaps. Replace cracked rubber pipe boots and reseal exposed nail heads.
Step 3. Check Gutters and Downspouts for Dents
Soft metals show hail first. Dented gutters/downspouts or bruised fascia indicate hail has enough force to damage shingles, plan a closer inspection.
Step 4. Evaluate Attic & Decking
In the attic, look for daylight through the roof, damp insulation, or water stains. A solid deck disperses hail impact better than weakened or rotted sheathing.
Step 5. Know Your Shingle Rating
If you have asphalt shingles, confirm the impact rating. Class 4 (UL 2218) impact-resistant shingles provide the highest hail resistance and can sometimes reduce insurance premiums. If your roof is older or unrated, consider an upgrade.
Step 6. Secure Loose Items & Trim Branches
Overhanging limbs and flying debris can puncture shingles during hailstorms. Trim trees back 6–10 feet from the roof line and secure satellite dishes or holiday light anchors.
Step 7 — Document With Photos for Insurance
Take date-stamped photos of your roof and property now. If a storm hits, you’ll have “before” evidence to speed claims and compare damage.
Get Hail-Season Ready Today
Ready for a professional roof inspection before hail season? Contact CarbonBlack Roofing to schedule your hail-readiness inspection and get a customized upgrade plan.
FAQ
What signs show my roof isn’t hail-ready?
Watch for missing or cracked shingles, heavy granule loss, dented gutters, rusted or lifted flashing, and water stains inside your attic. These weak points leave your roof vulnerable and make hail damage far more likely. Catching these early can help you prevent leaks before the first major storm hits.
Are Class 4 impact-resistant shingles worth it?
Yes. Class 4 shingles are designed to withstand hail impacts far better than standard shingles, reducing the chances of cracking, bruising, and premature aging. They often last longer in hail-prone regions and, in many cases, may even qualify you for insurance discounts or lower premiums.
How often should I inspect my roof during hail season?
At minimum, perform a full pre-season inspection, then do a quick visual check after each significant storm. It’s also smart to schedule a professional inspection once a year or anytime a storm produces hail 1 inch or larger. Regular checks help you spot damage before it turns into costly interior problems.
Will my homeowners insurance cover hail damage?
Most homeowners insurance policies cover sudden and accidental hail damage, including damaged shingles and roof leaks caused by storms. However, coverage can vary depending on your roof’s age, condition, and materials. It’s important to review your policy to understand deductibles, exclusions, and whether your plan pays based on ACV (actual cash value) or RCV (replacement cost value).
Can small hail still damage a roof?
Absolutely. Even small hailstones can loosen granules, bruise shingles, and speed up overall roof aging, especially when storms happen repeatedly. Damage isn’t always obvious from the ground, so even if shingles aren’t missing, your roof may still need attention to prevent long-term deterioration.
Learn more about how hail forms from the National Severe Storms Laboratory.
Key Takeaways
- Do a pre-season hail-readiness check: shingles, flashing, gutters, attic.
- Class 4 impact-resistant shingles provide top protection against hail.
- Trim branches and secure roof attachments to reduce puncture risks.
- Document the roof now with photos to simplify any future insurance claim.
- When in doubt, schedule a professional inspection before storms arrive.