How to Tell If You Have Hail Damage on Your Minnesota Home

by Legacy Construction | Jun 1, 2025 | Blog, Roofing, Storm Damage

When a big Minnesota storm rolls through, hail can come fast and leave behind more damage than you might expect. While it’s easy to spot a broken window or dented car, the damage hail can do to your roof isn’t always obvious. Even worse, if it’s left unchecked, it can quietly turn into a much bigger and more costly problem.

At Legacy Construction, we live and work right here in the Minnesota communities we serve. We’ve been up on thousands of roofs across Minnesota and know exactly what to look for after a storm. If you believe your roof took a hit from hail, wind, or is in need of storm damage repair, we’re here to walk you through what to do next. Here’s what you should be on the lookout for when it comes to hail damage.

Why Does Hail Damage Even Matter?

Hail may only last a few minutes, but it can do a lot of damage that lasts. Even small (less than 1” in diameter) hailstones can damage shingles, dent flashing, and compromise your roof’s ability to protect your home from moisture. Combine that with high winds that can potentially loosen or lift shingles and you have a real recipe for disaster. Once water gets in through your roof, your attic, walls, insulation, and ceilings could all be affected too.

Hail damage can be tough to spot from the ground, and many homeowners don’t notice a problem until it turns into a leak. It might be tempting to check for damage yourself, but one wrong step can lead to serious injuries. Our trained team knows exactly what to look for—and we’ll get up on your roof for free, so you don’t have to risk it. It’s so important to inspect your roof after a storm, and while you should have a local roofing company do it for you, you may be able to spot some signs of hail damage from the ground.

The Signs of Hail Damage

Here’s what to look for after a hailstorm:

1. Damaged or Missing Shingles

Hail can knock granules off asphalt shingles or cause cracks and bruising that aren’t always visible from the ground. Look for:

White or light grey spots or areas where granules are missing
Soft spots that feel spongy when touched
Cracked or curled edges
Shingles that look “bald” or discolored

2. Dented Gutters, Downspouts, or Flashing

If your metal gutters or flashing have visible dents or dings, that’s a good indication your roof took a beating too. Check your:

Gutters and downspouts for pitting or bent metal
Flashing around chimneys and vents for dents or uplifted edges
Fascia boards for chipping or paint loss

This kind of impact damage isn’t just cosmetic, it can also lead to improper drainage and future water issues.

3. Damage to Siding or Windowsills

Hail often hits siding and other parts of your home’s exterior. If you see cracks, dents, or paint chipping on siding panels, windowsills and casings, or screens or trim, there’s a good chance your roof took similar hits.

4. Granules in Your Gutters

After a hailstorm, check your gutters and downspouts for an accumulation of black or sand-like granules. These granules help protect your shingles from the sun and weather. Once they’re gone, the underlying asphalt is exposed and vulnerable.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Act

If your roof has been damaged—even slightly—delaying repairs can turn a minor issue into a major headache. Over time, compromised shingles can let water seep into your home, leading to mold, wood rot, and even structural damage.

Plus, the longer you wait, the harder it can be to file an insurance claim. Most insurers have a window of time after a storm for reporting damage. If you miss that window, you may be footing the bill yourself.

What to Do After a Hailstorm

Here’s how to protect your home and your peace of mind:

Document the Storm
Take photos of hailstones, if possible, and make note of the date and time.
Look for Visible Signs of Damage
Use the checklist above to look for any issues you can safely see from the ground. Leave the roof inspection to trained professionals with the proper equipment.
Schedule a Roof Inspection
Reach out to a licensed, local roofing company (like Legacy Construction) for a detailed inspection.
File an Insurance Claim if Needed
If damage is found, we’ll walk you through the process and help you communicate with your insurance provider.

Your Trusted Roofing Partner in Minnesota

At Legacy Construction, we’ve seen the damage that a storm can leave behind. We’re a local, family-owned roofing company that stands behind our work with 5-star ratings and a workmanship warranty. You won’t just see us after the storm, you’ll see us at the grocery store, the ball field, or the coffee shop, and we’ll be here for years to come.

Your roof is too important to leave to chance. At Legacy Construction, we’re here to help you protect your home, avoid costly repairs, and make smart decisions after a storm. Whether you’re dealing with visible damage or just want the peace of mind that comes with a professional inspection, we’re ready to help. We serve you with no pressure, just honest advice from a neighbor who cares.