Some storm damage is obvious — missing shingles, tree limbs, dented gutters. Other damage hides until it's too late for an insurance claim or has already started leaking. Here's what to look for after every major North Alabama storm.
Soft Metal Collateral Damage
Aluminum gutters, downspouts, AC condenser fins, and roof vents are 'soft' targets that record hail strikes before shingles do. If you see dents on those, your roof was almost certainly hit too.
Granule Accumulation
Walk your gutters and downspout exits after a storm. Concentrated granule deposits — beyond normal weathering — are a strong indicator of hail or wind damage on the slope above.
Wind Creasing
Look at the roof edge with binoculars. Slightly lifted or 'creased' shingles indicate wind that briefly broke the thermal seal — those shingles will fail in the next storm.
Key Takeaways
- Dented gutters or AC fins
- Concentrated granule loss in one spot
- Lifted/creased shingles at edges
- Splatter marks on painted surfaces
- Dented vents or roof penetrations
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon after a storm should I get inspected?+
Within 30 days — definitely within 90. The longer you wait, the harder the insurance claim becomes.