How to Spot Hail Damage on Your Roof (And What to Do Next)

Northern Kentucky averages several significant hail events per year. After a storm, many homeowners look at their roof, see nothing obviously wrong, and assume they got lucky. Unfortunately, hail damage is often invisible from the ground — but it's quietly degrading your roof every day until it becomes a leak.

What Does Hail Actually Do to a Roof?

Hail damages shingles in ways that aren't always immediately visible:

On Asphalt Shingles:

• Creates impact bruises — soft spots in the shingle mat that look like a bruise on an apple
• Knocks off protective granules — exposing the asphalt layer to UV radiation
• Can crack or fracture the fiberglass mat beneath the granules

On Metal Components (Gutters, Flashing, Vents):

• Leaves visible dents and dings — the clearest sign of a hail event
• Can damage gutter seams and cause leaks

On Soft Metals (Aluminum Gutters, Fascia):

• Look for round, uniform dents — a clear signature of hail impact

How to Check From the Ground

After any significant hail storm, here's what to check without getting on the roof:

1. Look at your gutters and downspouts — dents or dings confirm hail hit your property
2. Check your AC unit — the fins dent easily; multiple dents confirm hail size and density
3. Look at window screens — hail punches small holes in screens
4. Check wood surfaces (deck, painted wood trim) — fresh impact marks visible
5. Look at the ground — excessive granule piles near downspouts after a storm

If you see damage on these surfaces, there is almost certainly damage on your roof — even if you can't see it from the street.

Signs of Hail Damage on a Roof Inspection

What a professional inspector looks for:

• Random pattern of black marks — bruised shingles, no preferred direction
• Granule loss in circular patterns around impact points
• Exposed mat (dark spots where granules have been stripped)
• Soft feel when pressing on the impact area
• Dented metal flashing and ridge cap

What to Do After a Hail Storm

Step 1: Document Everything

Photograph your property — gutters, downspouts, AC unit, window screens, deck — within 24–48 hours. This documentation is critical for your insurance claim.

Step 2: Call TNT Roofing for a Free Inspection

Don't get on your roof yourself. Our team will:

• Conduct a thorough inspection of all roof surfaces
• Document all hail damage with photographs
• Provide a written assessment you can submit to your insurance company

Step 3: File Your Insurance Claim

Most homeowner policies cover hail damage. Don't wait — most insurance companies have a claim filing window of 1 year from the date of the storm, but the sooner you file, the stronger your claim.

Step 4: Don't Let Storm Chasers on Your Roof

After every major hail event, out-of-state contractors flood Northern Kentucky. They often:

• Perform substandard work
• Disappear when warranty issues arise
• Create additional damage to justify a larger claim

Work with a licensed, locally based contractor who will be here to stand behind the work.

Act Fast — Hail Damage Gets Worse Over Time

Bruised shingles absorb more UV radiation, age faster, and eventually crack and leak. What starts as a Class 4 hail hit can turn into a leak within 2–5 years if left unaddressed.

TNT Roofing & Restoration LLC provides free post-storm inspections throughout Northern Kentucky, Florence, Fort Thomas, Cincinnati, and all surrounding areas.

📞 Call or text (859) 529-4507 — we'll be out within the hour 🛡️ We assist with the full insurance claim process from start to finish