Hail Roof Damage in Livingston County: What to Do

What Does Hail Damage Do to a Roof?

The costs associated with hail damage can add up quickly because hail affects almost anything outside — cars, windows, and your roof. Some signs are obvious, like a broken window or a dented car. The small, easy-to-miss damage is what takes a trained eye. Even without obvious holes, you likely still need a hail damage roof inspection to understand the scope and next steps.

What Hail Does to a Roof

Hail roof damage varies with hail size, wind speed, wind direction, roof material, age, and slope. Damage becomes serious when it leads to leaks and other issues.

Damage can be functional or cosmetic — and cosmetic damage is sometimes more severe than it looks. Broken edges, bruises, punctures, and granule loss can cause lasting problems even when they look minor at first.

Hail Damage to Asphalt and Composition Shingles

Granule loss

Granules are the sandpaper-like surface of the shingle. When granules are knocked off, the asphalt coating is exposed and ages faster. After a hailstorm, check gutters and downspouts for loose granules.

Cracks in the shingles

Hard hail impacts or high winds can crack shingles, leading to tears and bare spots that no longer protect the roof.

Exposed fiberglass mat

Hail can shatter the shingle surface so it breaks away from the fiberglass mat underneath.

Fractured fiberglass mat

Fractured mats are harder to spot and usually need a trained eye. They can lead to tears and cracks from the impact point.

Weakened self-seal strip

High winds and hail can weaken shingle seals. A weakened seal can allow shingles to blow off and leave the roof exposed, which may cause leaks and damage nearby shingles.

How Do You Know if Your Roof or Exterior Has Hail Damage?

Severe damage — missing shingles or downed branches — is obvious. Minor damage is harder to see. Start with a professional inspection, or use these ground-level checks:

• Gutters and downspouts: High-impact hail often dents metal. Dents are a strong clue there may be roof damage above. Gutters can also clog with granules shed from shingles.
• Siding: Hail marks on siding often pair with shingle damage.
• Deck or other exposed surfaces: Visible hail hits outdoors are another reason to inspect the roof.

What Does Roof Damage from Hail Look Like?

If hail is over about one inch in diameter, roof damage is often more obvious — especially with high winds. You may see cracked windows, damaged siding, or dented gutters. Smaller hail can still cause damage that isn’t obvious from the ground, so it’s wise to have a qualified local contractor inspect after any hail event.

While asphalt shingles show the damage types above, hail can also crack or shatter harder materials like clay or concrete. Impact marks and bruises on asphalt are where a roofing expert’s eye matters most. For NOAA background on how hail forms and why size matters, see the NSSL hail overview.

Can 1-Inch Hail Cause Damage to a Roof?

Yes. Even hail smaller than 1 inch can damage a roof or other parts of your home. Hail size is a useful starting point — not a foolproof predictor — for what to expect:

• 1″ hail: Bruising to shingle underlayment and significant damage to siding, gutters, and fascia. Wind speed affects severity.
• 1¼” hail: Much more significant impact; exposed areas can look heavily pitted even without strong wind.
• 1½” hail: Significant property damage depending on duration, amount of hail, and wind.
• 1¾–2″ hail: Can penetrate softer roof parts such as ridge caps or plastic roof vents; with wind, may tear siding, crack windows, and damage metal fixtures.
• 2″ hail and above: Expect significant, severe damage — the question becomes where damage occurred, not whether it did. Call a roofing contractor experienced with insurance claims promptly.

Handling Hail Roof Damage

After you understand the situation, find a roofing contractor you trust — preferably one experienced with insurance claim projects. Premium Roofing has served Livingston County since 1995 and can walk you through inspection and repair scope. See how a replacement proceeds on our install process page, browse repairs and replacements in the gallery, or review general homeowner questions in our FAQs.

Is a hail-damaged roof covered by insurance?

A typical homeowners policy includes coverage for hail roof damage, but how coverage applies depends on your location, insurer, and policy details. Review your policy and ask your carrier directly.

How long do I have to file an insurance claim for hail damage?

Many insurers expect a claim within about one year after hail damage is identified. Schedule an inspection as soon as you suspect damage so you have time to review assessments and repair quotes.

If your home has hail damage, contact us for a free property evaluation. Premium Roofing LLC will help you understand the scope of work and restore your roof. When you’re comparing repair bids, use our guide to comparing roofing quotes, and if you’re still selecting a contractor, read choosing a roofing contractor.

FAQs: Hail Roof Damage in Livingston County

What are the most common signs of hail damage on asphalt shingles?

Granule loss, bruises, cracks, exposed or fractured fiberglass mat, and weakened self-seal strips — often paired with dented gutters or marked siding.

Should I get on the roof myself after a hailstorm?

No. Check what you can safely see from the ground (gutters, siding, decks), then hire a professional for a roof-level inspection.

Can small hail still damage my roof?

Yes. Hail under 1 inch can still cause damage. Larger hail (especially 1 inch and above) tends to make damage more obvious and severe.

Does homeowners insurance cover hail roof damage?

Typically yes, but coverage details vary by insurer and policy. Confirm with your carrier after an inspection.

Who should I call for a hail roof inspection in Howell, MI?

Call Premium Roofing LLC at 517-468-1139 or request a free evaluation. We’re at 325 S Michigan Ave #2123, Howell, MI 48843, serving Livingston County since 1995.