Hailstorms can affect roofing, gutters, vents, siding, windows, screens, and other exterior surfaces. Some damage is visible from the ground, while other damage requires a trained professional to identify safely. Do not climb onto a storm-damaged, wet, steep, or unstable roof. Homeowners can perform the initial inspection safely from the ground.
Start With Safety
- Check for downed power lines.
- Stay away from damaged trees and unstable structures.
- Do not walk beneath hanging branches or loose materials.
- Do not climb onto the roof.
- Contact emergency services for fire, gas leaks, power-line hazards, injuries, or serious structural concerns.
- Wait until severe weather has passed before walking around the property.
Record the Storm Information
We recommend recording the following details:
- Date and approximate time
- Estimated hail size, if safely observed
- Duration of the storm
- Wind direction, if known
- Photos or videos taken from a safe location
- Reports of nearby storm damage
Accurate records may be helpful if you later contact an insurer or contractor.
Walk Around the Property From the Ground
Inspect all sides of the home without using a ladder. Look for:
- Roofing material on the ground
- Missing or shifted shingles
- Dented gutters and downspouts
- Damaged siding
- Torn window screens
- Dented exterior metal
- Damaged vents or trim
- Fallen branches
- Water stains or active leaks
Damage may be more noticeable on the side that faced the storm.
Inspect Gutters and Downspouts
Dents, fresh impact marks, loose sections, and heavy shingle-granule accumulation can indicate that hail reached the roofline.
Keep in mind that some granule loss occurs naturally as asphalt shingles age. Granules in a gutter do not prove that a roof requires replacement.
Look at the Roof From a Safe Distance
Use binoculars or a phone camera with zoom from a stable position on the ground. Look for:
- Missing shingles
- Shingles that appear lifted or displaced
- Dark or irregular spots
- Cracked shingles
- Damaged ridge caps
- Dented metal vents
- Damaged flashing
- Exposed roof areas
Many hail impacts cannot be accurately evaluated from the ground.
Check Windows, Siding and Exterior Equipment
We recommend checking:
- Window screens for tears
- Window frames for dents
- Siding for cracks or impact marks
- Garage doors for dents
- Exterior light fixtures
- Metal vents and covers
- Outdoor furniture
- Air-conditioning equipment
Do not touch damaged electrical or mechanical equipment. Contact the appropriate professional.
Look Inside the Home
Check the attic and upper rooms only when safely accessible. Look for:
- New ceiling stains
- Damp insulation
- Moisture around vents or chimneys
- Dripping water
- Peeling paint
- Musty odors
- Changes that appeared after the storm
The absence of an interior leak does not prove the roof is undamaged.
Document Visible Damage
We recommend taking:
- Wide photos showing the property
- Medium photos showing the damaged area
- Close-up photos from a safe location
- Photos of gutters, siding, screens, and debris
- Interior photos of water stains
Do not discard damaged materials until you have photographed them and confirmed what documentation is needed.
When to Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
Recommend professional evaluation when:
- Hail was reported nearby
- Gutters or metal components are dented
- Shingles are missing or displaced
- New interior water stains appear
- Neighbors report roof damage
- The roof is older or already deteriorating
- You cannot safely see the roof
- An insurance claim may be necessary
A contractor can document visible conditions and recommend repair, replacement, monitoring, or further evaluation.
Understanding Insurance Claims
Homeowners should review their policy and report potential damage according to their insurer’s requirements.
Disclaimer: Serenity Home Transformations is a roofing contractor, not a public insurance adjuster, insurance agent, or attorney. The insurance company determines coverage, claim approval, scope, and payment.
Do Not Wait Too Long
Document concerns promptly because policies may contain notification requirements and exposed damage may become more vulnerable to later weather. Consult your policy and insurer for specific deadlines.
Schedule a Free Storm Damage Inspection
Serenity Home Transformations can inspect accessible exterior components, photograph visible concerns, and explain potential roofing options.
Concerned About Hail Damage?
Request a free storm damage inspection from Serenity Home Transformations. Our local team serves Cedar Rapids, Marion, Linn County, Dubuque, and approved surrounding Eastern Iowa communities.
