Understanding Hail Damage: What Homeowners Need to Know

Severe hailstorms are no stranger to the Chicago area, and while they often pass in a matter of minutes, the damage they leave behind can be significant—especially to your roof. At Sammy’s Roofing, we’ve helped countless homeowners assess, repair, and restore hail-damaged roofs across Chicagoland. This guide will walk you through what hail damage really looks like, how to identify it early, and what steps you should take to protect your home and investment.

What Hail Damage Does to a Roof

When hailstones strike your roof, the impact can cause a variety of problems depending on the material, age, and condition of the roof system. Asphalt shingles, the most common type on residential homes in Chicago, are particularly vulnerable.

Common Signs of Hail Damage:

• Granule loss: Hail impact can strip protective granules from shingles, exposing the asphalt underneath to UV damage and accelerated aging.

• Cracked or bruised shingles: Some damage may look minor at first glance but compromises the integrity of the shingle over time.

• Indentations on metal components: Dents in gutters, vents, flashing, or roof caps indicate hail impact that could have affected the shingles too.

• Leaks or water spots: If hail has punctured the roofing membrane or underlayment, moisture intrusion becomes a real concern.

  

As the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety explains, “Even small hail can cause significant damage to asphalt shingles depending on wind speed and other conditions.” Early detection is key to preventing long-term issues like mold growth or structural rot.

Why Timing Matters: The Hidden Costs of Waiting

Many homeowners delay roof inspections after a hailstorm, assuming that visible damage would be obvious. Unfortunately, hail damage is often subtle—and by the time leaks or sagging show up, the cost of repair has usually skyrocketed.

Additionally, insurance companies often have strict timelines for filing storm-related claims. Waiting too long could mean paying out-of-pocket for what would have been a covered repair.

“Your roof is your home’s first line of defense. After a hailstorm, it’s not just about what you see, but what you don’t,” says a representative from the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA).

What to Do After a Hailstorm in the Chicago Area

Document the Storm

Take photos of the hailstones (use a ruler for size reference), and note the date and time of the storm. If you experience strong winds or severe hail, this documentation will support your insurance claim later.

Schedule a Professional Inspection

Have a licensed roofer assess your property. At Sammy’s Roofing, we offer free hail damage inspections with a detailed report of any visible and hidden damage. Our trained team knows how to identify issues insurance adjusters might miss.

File Your Insurance Claim Promptly

We assist homeowners throughout the insurance process—working directly with adjusters to ensure your damage is fully documented and covered wherever possible. If your roof qualifies for full or partial replacement, we’ll advocate for the highest quality restoration.

Should You Repair or Replace?

That decision comes down to the severity of the damage. Minor granule loss or isolated bruising can sometimes be repaired, but large sections of hail impact typically require full replacement to preserve your home’s structural integrity and resale value.

Sammy’s Roofing uses impact-resistant materials and offers industry-backed warranties, giving you peace of mind for the next storm that hits Chicagoland.

Protecting Your Roof Before the Next Storm

While hailstorms are unavoidable, you can reduce the risk of severe damage:

• Trim overhanging branches to minimize impact from falling debris.

• Install Class 4 impact-resistant shingles.

• Ensure attic ventilation and insulation are optimized to support your roof structure.

Need a Hail Damage Inspection?
If your neighborhood was recently hit by hail, don’t wait. Schedule your free inspection with Sammy’s Roofing today. We’ll give you a clear, honest assessment—and help you move forward with confidence.

📍 Serving Chicago, Evanston, Aurora, and surrounding communities