Hail vs Wind Damage: How to Tell the Difference on Your Roof
After a major storm, it’s normal to check your property for damage—but knowing what kind of damage your roof has is just as important. Both hail and wind can do serious harm, but they leave behind different signs. Understanding the difference helps with insurance claims, repairs, and preventing future issues.
Here’s how to tell if your roof is showing signs of hail damage, wind damage, or a combination of both—and what to do next.
Why It’s Important to Know the Difference
Hail and wind impact your roof in different ways:
- Hail typically causes direct impact damage—dents, bruises, or granule loss.
- Wind tends to lift, crease, or rip off shingles, especially around edges and peaks.
Insurance adjusters and roofing contractors look for specific indicators tied to each type of storm. Knowing what to look for can strengthen your claim and ensure the right repairs are made.
What Hail Damage Looks Like on a Roof
Signs of Hail Damage:
- Dented or bruised shingles: Usually circular and random in placement
- Granule loss: Shingles may look darker or bald in spots
- Damaged vents and flashing: Metal components often show the clearest signs
- Hail splatter marks on gutters, siding, or driveway
Even if the shingles look okay from the ground, bruised areas can weaken their ability to protect your home. If you’re not sure what’s normal vs. damaged, contact a
Pickerington roofer and have your property inspected.
What Wind Damage Looks Like on a Roof
Signs of Wind Damage:
- Missing shingles: Usually along edges, ridges, or valleys
- Creased or lifted tabs: Caused by upward wind pressure
- Displaced ridge caps or flashing: Often pulled back or flapping in strong winds
- Debris or shingle fragments around your home after the storm
If your roof has multiple shingle layers, wind damage can be more severe due to added weight and poor adhesion. Not sure how many layers are on your roof? Check out our blog on how many layers of shingles should be on a roof.
Quick Comparison Chart
| Feature | Hail Damage | Wind Damage |
|---|---|---|
| Pattern | Random, scattered | Along edges or slopes |
| Common Signs | Dents, bruises, granule loss | Missing or creased shingles |
| Affected Areas | Shingle surface, metal flashing | Shingle seams, ridge caps |
| Severity | May appear minor but cause leaks | Often visible and urgent |
What to Do If You Notice Damage
If your roof has taken a hit from a storm, here’s what to do next:
- Document the damage with photos from the ground
- Avoid climbing on the roof—it's unsafe and you may miss subtle issues
- Schedule a professional roof inspection to determine the exact cause and extent
- Keep records of the storm date, damage signs, and inspection results
Work With a Local Roofing Professional
Storm damage can be complex. A licensed roofing contractor knows what insurance companies look for and can:
- Confirm the type of storm damage
- Provide documentation for your claim
- Recommend the right repair strategy
At Price Brothers Restoration, we inspect, document, and repair storm-damaged roofs across Central Ohio. Whether you’re dealing with hail, wind, or both—we’ll help you get your roof (and your home) back in shape.
Contact us today to schedule your storm damage inspection.
FAQ: Quick Answers to Common Questions
Q: How can I tell if my roof was damaged by hail or wind?
Hail usually leaves dents or bruises on shingles and metal, while wind often causes lifting, creasing, or full shingle loss—especially near roof edges.
Q: Can hail and wind damage happen at the same time?
Yes. Many severe storms include both strong winds and hail. A professional inspection will identify and document each type of damage.
Q: Will insurance cover hail or wind damage?
In most cases, yes—but proper documentation and timely filing are key. Your policy details and deductible will determine your exact coverage.
Q: Is it safe to inspect the roof myself?
We don’t recommend it. Even minor-looking damage can be dangerous to walk on. A qualified contractor can assess the damage safely and thoroughly.
