Hail Damage on Metal Roofs: What It Looks Like

Hail hits metal roofs with enough force to leave permanent dents. On standing seam panels, you often see round, shallow dimples scattered across the surface. On corrugated metal, the dents may be deeper and more irregular, following the shape of the hailstone.

The size of the hail matters. Smaller hail, like pea-sized stones, may only cause tiny marks. Larger hail, such as golf balls or bigger, can create noticeable craters. Walk around your roof safely and look for these patterns, but only if you can do so without risk. Otherwise, use binoculars from the ground.

• Shallow round dimples from smaller hail
• Deep craters from larger stones
• Irregular pitting on softer metal
• Dents concentrated on one side of the roof
• Marks along the edges of panels

Strong hail impacts can loosen the fasteners that hold metal roof panels in place. You might see screws or nails that have popped up slightly, or clips that have shifted. This can create gaps where water can enter, even if the roof looks intact from a distance.

Walk along the roof seams and look for any fastener that is not sitting flush. On standing seam roofs, check the seam clips. On screw-down panels, look for raised screw heads. If you find loose fasteners, it is a sign that the roof needs attention.

Do not try to tighten them yourself if the roof is steep or slippery. That work is right for the pros, who have the proper safety equipment and tools.

If you see dents, scratches, or loose fasteners on your metal roof, it is wise to have a professional take a closer look. The pros can safely inspect the roof, identify all the damage, and recommend the right repairs. They can also check for hidden water damage that you might have missed.

Roof repairs for hail damage usually involve replacing damaged panels, resealing seams, and re-fastening loose sections. The cost depends on the extent of the damage, the type of metal, and the size of your roof. In some cases, your insurance policy may help with the cost, but policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

If you are unsure whether your roof needs repairs, a water damage inspection can give you a clear picture. That way, you can address small issues before they become big ones.