February 24, 2025
How to Spot Hail Damage on Your Roof: A Guide for St. Louis Homeowners
St. Louis is no stranger to severe weather, and hailstorms can wreak havoc on your roof. Even small hailstones can cause hidden damage that leads to leaks, mold, or structural issues. As a trusted St. Louis roofing company, Family First Exteriors is here to help you spot hail damage early and take action. In this guide, we’ll cover:
- How hail size, wind, and roofing materials affect damage
- Key signs of hail damage on asphalt, wood, and metal roofs
- How to tell hail damage from normal wear and tear
- What to do next if you suspect damage
What Makes Hail Damage Worse in St. Louis?
Hailstorms in St. Louis are often accompanied by high winds and heavy rain, which amplify damage. Here’s what to consider:
1. Hailstone Size
- Pea-sized (0.25”): Minimal damage, but can loosen granules on asphalt shingles.
- Quarter-sized (1”): Dents gutters, cracks shingles.
- Golf ball-sized (1.75”+): Can puncture roofs or siding.
2. Wind Direction
- High winds drive hail sideways, causing uneven damage (e.g., one side of your roof may be hit harder).
3. Roofing Material
- Asphalt Shingles: Lose granules, exposing the underlayer.
- Wood Shingles: Split or crack with sharp edges.
- Metal Roofs: Show dents but rarely puncture.
How to Spot Hail Damage: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Check for Exterior Clues
- Dented gutters, downspouts, or AC units: These often show damage before the roof.
- Damaged siding or windows: Hail hits leave pockmarks or cracks.
2. Inspect Your Roof (Safely!)
Never climb onto your roof! Use binoculars or hire a professional.
Asphalt/Composite Shingles
- Black spots: Hail hits bruise the mat beneath shingles.
- Granule loss: Check gutters for granules (they look like coarse sand).
- Shiny patches: Exposed asphalt from missing granules.
Wood Shingles
- Splits with sharp edges: Fresh splits indicate hail (aged splits have worn edges).
- Orange/brown discoloration: Moisture seeping into cracks.
Metal Roofs
- Dents: Small dents are cosmetic; large dents may affect seams.
Hail Damage vs. Normal Wear and Tear
Don’t confuse hail damage with aging!
| Hail Damage | Normal Wear |
|——————————-|——————————–|
| Random, circular dents | Uniform granule loss |
| Fresh splits (sharp edges) | Curling or brittle shingles |
| Clusters of damage on one side | Sun bleaching or algae growth |
What St. Louis Homeowners Should Do Next
- Document the Damage:
- Take photos of dents, splits, or granule loss.
- Note the date of the storm (check local weather reports).
- Schedule a Free Roof Inspection:
Family First Exteriors offers complimentary storm damage assessments. Our certified inspectors will:- Identify hidden damage (e.g., soft spots on decking).
- Provide repair/replacement recommendations.
- File an Insurance Claim (If Needed):
- We’ll work directly with your insurer to streamline the process.
Why Choose Family First Exteriors?
- 🏆 Local Expertise: Serving St. Louis for 15+ years.
- 🔍 Thorough Inspections: We use drone technology for safer, faster assessments.
- 💬 Trusted Reviews: 500+ 5-star ratings from St. Louis homeowners.
FAQs About Hail Damage in St. Louis
Q: How soon should I inspect my roof after a hailstorm?
A: Within 48 hours. Delays can lead to leaks or mold.
Q: Will insurance cover hail damage repairs?
A: Most policies do, but deadlines apply. We’ll help you file promptly.
Q: Can I repair hail damage myself?
A: Roof repairs are dangerous! Leave it to licensed pros for safety and warranty protection.
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