Start here
Quick, low-risk steps
- Keep everyone away from unstable areas and fallen debris.
- Photograph visible roof marks from the ground or a safe interior location.
- Record the storm date and check official NOAA storm event records.
- Look for collateral hail damage on gutters, downspouts, siding, and air conditioners.
- Contact a licensed roofing professional for an inspection before filing a claim.
How Hail Damage Looks
Hail hits are random and can leave circular cracks, bruises, or missing granules on shingles. The impact may feel soft like a bruise on asphalt shingles. Damage is often more visible on metal roof vents, gutters, and siding.
Hail size and wind direction affect the pattern. Larger hailstones cause more obvious damage, but even small hail can harm an older roof. A professional will check for collateral damage around the property.
- Random, circular marks with dark spots or lost granules
- Bruised or soft spots on asphalt shingles
- Dents on metal flashing, vents, or gutters
- Splatter marks or cracked siding
Signs of Normal Roof Aging
Aging roofs show uniform wear like curling shingles, widespread granule loss, or brittle materials. These changes happen slowly over years and are not tied to a single storm event.
Sun exposure, heat, and moisture cause gradual deterioration. If your roof is near the end of its expected life, wear can be mistaken for storm damage. A professional can measure remaining shingle thickness and check for manufacturing defects.
- Curling or cupping shingle edges
- Even granule loss across the roof
- Brittle or cracked shingles without impact marks
- Moss or algae growth in shaded areas
Why Uncertainty Is Common
It can be hard to tell the difference because hail damage and aging sometimes overlap. An older roof may show exaggerated hail effects, while a new roof might resist small hail. Only a trained eye can spot subtle bruising or hidden damage.
Insurance adjusters and contractors may disagree. That's why you should gather your own evidence, like dated photos and official storm reports, before anyone walks the roof. Never rely on a door-to-door salesperson's opinion alone.
- Overlap between age and storm damage is common
- Older roofs are more vulnerable to hail
- Hidden damage may exist under shingles
- Get multiple professional opinions if needed
Steps to Take Before Filing a Claim
Document everything from the ground: take clear photos of suspected damage, note the date and time of the storm, and save local weather reports. Check the NOAA Storm Events Database for official hail records in your area.
Contact a licensed roofing contractor for a detailed inspection and written scope of work. Then call your insurance company to start a claim. The Texas Department of Insurance warns against contractors who promise to handle your claim or waive your deductible.
- Photograph roof and collateral damage from the ground
- Record the storm date and check NOAA records
- Get a written inspection report from a licensed roofer
- Contact your insurer and ask about your policy coverage
Take this with you
Evidence and scope checklist
- Date and time of the suspected hail event
- NOAA storm report for your location
- Ground-level photos of roof and collateral damage
- Written inspection report from a licensed roofing contractor
- Roof age and previous repair history
- Manufacturer warranty documents
- Insurance policy declarations page
Common questions
What homeowners ask next
Can an old roof still have hail damage?
Yes, an older roof can be damaged by hail, but wear and tear may complicate an insurance claim. Your policy may only cover the depreciated value of an aged roof.
What if my contractor says it's hail damage but the adjuster disagrees?
You can request a re-inspection or hire an independent roof inspector. Provide your own photos and storm data. The Texas Department of Insurance offers guidance on handling disputes.
Should I get my roof inspected after every hailstorm?
Not necessarily. If you see collateral damage or large hail fell, an inspection is wise. Small hail may not cause harm, but a professional can confirm.
Evidence
Sources used for this guide
Research checked July 31, 2026
- NOAA Storm Events DatabaseNOAA National Centers for Environmental Information
Dated official storm-event records; an area event does not prove damage at a property.
- Storm and property insurance consumer resourcesTexas Department of Insurance
Texas consumer process and fraud-prevention context; never a promise of coverage.
- International Residential Code wind and roof compilationFEMA
Model-code background; locally adopted code and permits control.
Optional next step
Need an on-site professional?
Use the guide and worksheet first so you can describe the situation and compare the full scope. A referral is optional; you can also contact a licensed local provider directly.
We have not enabled a provider route for this site. Use the checklist to contact and verify local providers yourself; urgent hazards should go to the appropriate emergency or public service.