Pennsylvania gets hammered by severe hailstorms - especially in the summer. After the storm passes and your neighbor says “my roof looks fine,” it's worth getting up there yourself or calling a professional. Here's exactly what to look for.
Not sure what you're looking at?
We offer free roof inspections after every storm.
1. Start With the Ground Level
Before climbing anything, walk around your house and look at the roof from all angles. Hail damage on a roof often shows up first on the street-facing slope, since that's what took the brunt of the wind-driven hail. Look for:
- Dents or dings in gutters, downspouts, and gutter guards
- Scrapes and dents on window frames, siding, and doors
- Impact marks on the edge of the roof (rake edge)
- Granules that have collected in valleys or against the foundation
2. Look at the Shingles Directly
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in Central PA, and they show hail damage clearly. You're looking for three main things:
Bruising
Run your hand gently over a shingle. If you feel a soft spot or a slight depression - like a small dent - that's bruising. It means the mat beneath the granules has been compromised. These are the most common and least obvious signs of hail damage.
Missing Granules
Shingles lose granules on impact. You'll see dark spots or exposed fiberglass mat where the granules have been knocked loose. On the ground, look for piles of grit in gutters or along foundation walls - that's granules washing off your roof.
Cracks and Splits
Larger hail can crack or split shingles entirely. Look for lines across the shingle that radiate from a central impact point. Cracked shingles will almost always leak eventually.
3. Check the Underside of Eaves and Overhangs
The underside of rake edges and eaves are often the most honest indicators of hail damage. Grab a flashlight and look up under the overhangs. If there's damage on the bottom of the plywood or sheathing, you've got confirmed hail impact - even if the top of the shingles looks okay.
4. Document Everything
If you're filing an insurance claim, documentation is everything. Take extensive photos and video of all damage - before you cover anything or make repairs.
Pro tip: Take photos BEFORE you call anyone to fix the damage. Your insurance company needs to see the original condition.
5. Know the Timeline
In Pennsylvania, you typically have 2 yearsfrom the date of loss to file a homeowners insurance claim for storm damage. But don't wait - unaddressed hail damage worsens over time, and insurers can deny claims if you're seen to have neglected the problem.
6. When in Doubt, Call a Professional
A trained roofer can spot damage that an untrained eye misses. At Revive Roof Repair, we do free storm damage inspections throughout Harrisburg, Hershey, Mechanicsburg, York, and surrounding areas. We'll photograph everything, give you an honest assessment, and help you navigate the insurance process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my roof has hail damage?
Look for bruising or dents in shingles, missing granules, cracked or split shingles, and damage to gutters, vents, or flashing. The underside of eaves often shows the first signs.
Does hail damage always cause leaks?
Not immediately. Small dents and bruises can take months or years to start leaking. But every day you wait, water intrusion slowly weakens the structure.
Will my Pennsylvania homeowner's insurance cover hail damage?
In most cases, yes. You pay your deductible and the insurer covers the rest. Revive Roof Repair can help you document damage and work with your adjuster.
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Revive Roof Repair Team
Licensed, insured roofing contractors serving Central Pennsylvania. We specialize in storm damage, insurance claims, and roof replacements.