How Hail Damage Roof Replacement Works Start to Finish

Before any work begins, you need a clear picture of what the hail actually did. Walk around your property and look for missing shingles, cracked tiles, or dents in metal roofing. Take photos of every visible issue, and check your gutters and downspouts for granules from worn shingles.

A water damage inspection is the next step. The pros will examine the roof surface, flashing, valleys, and vents to map out the full extent of the damage. This assessment also shows whether water has already penetrated the underlayment, which affects how much of the roof deck needs replacement.

• Look for bare spots where granules have washed away
• Check for cracks or holes in shingles and tiles
• Inspect metal flashing and vent boots for dents
• Note any water stains on ceilings or walls inside
• Document everything with photos and dates

Removal is a noisy, dusty step. The pros strip away shingles, underlayment, and any damaged flashing, working from the top down. They haul each load off separately, keeping the site tidy and reducing the risk of slips.

During removal, the pros inspect the roof deck for soft spots, water stains, or sagging. If hail or moisture has damaged the plywood or OSB, those sections get cut out and replaced. This step is critical because a new roof over a bad deck will fail early.

After the last shingle is nailed, the pros walk the entire roof to check for loose fasteners, gaps, or misaligned courses. They also inspect the new flashing and sealant around chimneys and skylights. This final pass catches small issues before they become leaks.

Cleanup is just as important as installation. The pros remove all debris, nails, and old materials from your property and run a magnet over the yard to pick up stray fasteners. You should also check your attic for any new water stains after the first heavy rain. A quick post-rain check gives you peace of mind.