How to Spot Roof Damage After a Storm
Storm damage often shows up as missing shingles, granule loss, hail bruising, cracked flashing, or interior water stains. Some signs are obvious—but others can be easy to miss.
In Minnesota, spring and summer storms bring hail, high winds, and heavy rain that can quietly compromise your roof’s integrity. Knowing what to look for is the first step in preventing costly repairs. At Wright at Home Roofing & Exteriors, we’ve helped hundreds of Minneapolis-area homeowners identify and fix roof damage before it becomes a bigger problem.
Let’s walk through the signs to look for, how damage happens, and what steps to take if your roof needs help.
How Storms Damage Your Roof
Your roof is designed to protect your home from the elements—but even the best roofing system can suffer under the weight of Minnesota’s spring and summer storms. Here’s how different types of weather can impact your roof:
- Hail can crack or bruise shingles, dislodge granules, and damage flashing or vents.
- High winds can lift or tear off shingles, leaving your roof exposed to water intrusion.
- Heavy rain can exploit weak spots, flashing issues, or previous hail damage to cause leaks.
- Debris, like branches or limbs, can puncture shingles or damage gutters and flashing.
Common Signs of Storm Damage on Roof
Knowing the signs of roof damage is your first line of defense. Here are the most common visual indicators to watch for after a storm:
1. Missing or Lifted Shingles
If you notice shingles that have blown off or appear lifted or curled at the edges, it’s a clear sign that wind has compromised your roof. Even one missing shingle can lead to water infiltration.
2. Granule Loss
Storms can knock the protective granules off your asphalt shingles, exposing the underlying mat. You might see granules in your gutters or downspouts, or notice “bald” spots on your shingles. This reduces the shingles’ lifespan and makes them more vulnerable to UV damage and leaks.
3. Bruised or Cracked Shingles
Hail often causes bruising or cracking. Run your hand gently over the shingle surface—if it feels soft in spots or looks dented, that’s hail damage.
4. Damaged Flashing or Vents
Check around chimneys, skylights, and roof vents. If flashing is dented, bent, or missing, water may be getting into your attic or walls.
5. Leaks or Water Stains Inside
Sometimes, the first sign of roof damage is inside your home. If you notice water stains on ceilings or walls, or hear dripping during a rainstorm, there’s a good chance your roof has been compromised.
What If You Don’t See Anything?
Not all storm damage is visible from the ground. Small cracks, bruised shingles, or flashing issues may go unnoticed—but can lead to bigger problems over time. That’s why a professional roof inspection after a major storm is always a smart move. Early detection makes for easier repairs—and improves your chances of insurance coverage.
What to Do If You Suspect Storm Damage
If you think your roof may have been damaged, here’s what you should do:
- Document everything. Take photos of your property and any visible roof damage from the ground. Include photos of hailstones or debris if you see them.
- Call a professional roofer. At Wright at Home Roofing & Exteriors, we offer free inspections and will provide a detailed report of any damage we find.
- Notify your insurance company. If damage is found, you will want to file an insurance claim. We can work with you to ensure that all of the damage is properly scoped.
- Schedule repairs or replacement. Once your claim is approved, we’ll get to work restoring your roof quickly and correctly—using high-quality materials and expert workmanship.
Why Work with Wright at Home Roofing and Exteriors?
We’ve been serving Minneapolis and the surrounding metro since 2005, and we understand exactly what Minnesota weather can do to a home. When storms hit, we don’t just patch things up—we take the time to assess your roof thoroughly, communicate clearly, and complete the work with care.
- Certified roofing professionals
- Specialists in storm damage repair
- Locally owned and operated
- Lifetime labor warranty on all our work
Protect Your Home with Confidence
Storms may be unpredictable, but your roofing company shouldn’t be. If you’ve recently experienced bad weather and are wondering what storm damage looks like on a roof, don’t guess—get the answers from a trusted local expert.
Call us at (763) 363-4056 or request a free roofing or siding quote online. We’ll take care of your roof like it’s our own—because when storms pass, your peace of mind shouldn’t.
