Roof Repair
Spotting Roof Damage After a Texas Hailstorm: A Quick Inspection Guide
Hail damage is not always obvious. Learn the signs Lakehills homeowners should look for after a storm — and when to bring in a roof repair pro.
Hail is common in the San Antonio area, and even storms that appear mild can shorten the life of an asphalt shingle roof. The trouble is that hail damage rarely produces an obvious leak right away. By the time water shows up on a ceiling, the underlying damage may have been developing for months. This guide will help you catch the early signs.
Before You Climb a Ladder
Most of this inspection can — and should — be done from the ground. Climbing on an unfamiliar roof carries a real risk of injury. If anything in the ground-level inspection looks suspicious, call a roofing professional for a closer look.
The Ground-Level Hail Checklist
- Check the gutters and downspouts. Excess granule buildup (it looks like coarse black sand) is a strong indicator of hail damage.
- Walk the perimeter of the house. Look for shingle pieces or tabs in the yard, flower beds, or near the AC unit.
- Inspect the AC condenser fins. Hail damage to fins can indicate similar impacts on the roof above.
- Look at vent pipes, flashing, and chimney caps with binoculars. Dings and dents on metal can suggest shingles took similar hits.
- Check screens, garage doors, and fence tops for impact marks.
What Hail Actually Does to a Shingle
A hail strike crushes the granules off the shingle surface, exposing the asphalt mat underneath. UV light then begins breaking down that exposed asphalt. Over time, a roof that has been through a serious hailstorm can deteriorate faster than it otherwise would. That is one reason insurance carriers in Texas often include specific provisions for hail damage.
Should You File a Claim?
If you have visible granule loss, dented metal components, or pieces of shingle on the ground, filing a claim is worth considering — but document first. Take date-stamped photos before any repair work begins, and get a written inspection report from a qualified roofing professional.
When to Call NRZ
If you are in Lakehills, Pipe Creek, Bandera, or anywhere in San Antonio and you have just been through a hailstorm, NRZ Home Services can help assess the situation. Catching potential damage early is much more affordable than dealing with interior ceiling and insulation repairs later.