How to Tell If Your Roof Has Hail Damage (And What to Do Next)
Denver is no stranger to hailstorms — and your roof often takes the brunt of the impact. While not all damage is immediately visible, ignoring even small signs can lead to major repair costs down the road. So, how do you know if your roof has hail damage, and what should you do next?
Signs You Might Have Hail Damage
Hail damage isn’t always obvious from the ground, but here are a few things you can look for:
- Dented gutters or downspouts: A clear sign that hail had enough force to cause damage.
- Granules collecting in gutters: Asphalt shingles lose protective granules when struck, which often end up in your gutters.
- Visible shingle bruising or cracking: These can lead to leaks and structural damage over time.
- Soft spots on the roof surface: If you notice spongy areas when walking (if safe), water may have already penetrated beneath the shingles.
It’s also smart to inspect siding, decks, or vehicles for dents — if they show signs of impact, your roof probably does too.
🔍 Spot the Problem?
This roof might look fine at first glance, but the circled area shows subtle damage that can lead to major issues if left unchecked — like granule loss, sealant failure, or bruised shingles from hail. These small problems often go unnoticed until a leak appears. That’s why a professional inspection after a storm can make all the difference.
So, that begs the question... "Is it fine for now, or do we need to do something about this now?".
"Should I Call a Roofing Contractor?"
YES CALL US RIGHT NOW!! 😉 - that's a joke.
Not always — and definitely not before taking a moment to assess the situation. If you feel safe and conmfortable doing so, start by inspecting your property from the ground. Look for visible signs like dented gutters, cracked shingles, or granules collecting near downspouts. If you don’t notice anything obvious, it may not require immediate action.
However, some hail damage isn’t visible to the untrained eye and can lead to long-term issues like leaks or insulation problems. If you’re unsure or suspect something’s off — especially if your roof is older or your neighbors are dealing with repairs — it’s worth getting a second opinion. Most reputable roofing contractors (like us 🙂) offer free inspections without pressure or obligation.
Bottom line: If you’re on the fence, it’s better to check than to wait — but you don’t need to panic or assume the worst.
Already filed a roofing claim with your insurance?
Roof damage from hail or storms often leads homeowners down the path of filing an insurance claim — and with that comes a lot of questions. What’s covered? Do you need to get multiple estimates? Can your contractor cover your deductible?
We get these questions all the time, and it’s important to understand the real legal boundaries here in Colorado. While it may be tempting to work with a contractor who offers to “waive” or “cover” your deductible, that’s actually not allowed under Colorado law. Roofing contractors cannot legally offer financial incentives to secure your business — and that includes absorbing your deductible.
We explain this more in our full post: Is it legal for a roofing contractor to pay your deductible in Colorado?
That said, there are still flexible, legal options available. For example, many homeowners choose to pull a homeowner permit and hire a roofing subcontractor directly. This can lower out-of-pocket costs while staying fully compliant with state regulations — and yes, we can still manage the install and paperwork for you if you go that route.
If you’re not sure what direction to take, we’re happy to help you understand your options without pressure. Just give give us a shout.
Don’t Wait Until It Leaks 🙂
Small hail impacts might seem harmless now, but they can turn into major leaks during the next storm. Catching damage early keeps costs lower and protects your home. Again, if you're on the fence, just get a free inspection for peace of mind.
Have a wonderful day, and enjoy the spring showers without the worry!! 🏚️🌧️🏠