The process of detecting and evaluating hail damage is subjective at best, and often everyone involved will offer a different assessment. Damage can range from large, highly visible dents and tears to almost undetectable indentations or invisible granule damage. However, even small amounts of damage can harm the surfacing material, leading to deterioration of the shingles months later.

Normally, if a shingle indicates outward damage, the underlying components may be compromised and affected to some degree. On damaged roofs, the hail impact may affect the embedment of the granular surfacing in the asphalt top coating. This loosens the granules, potentially allowing the granules to separate from the coating layer and wash off the roof. Without the granule surfacing, the asphalt top coating is exposed to ultraviolet radiation from ordinary sunlight and will eventually deteriorate, exposing the fiberglass substrate and creating the potential for a leak. On severe hail damage, the fiberglass substrate may be physically broken further, compromising the weather integrity of the shingle. Without visible damage there is no real way to be sure how much damage shingles have encountered. Outward damage may not appear until months or years later. In accordance with the terms of the Limited Warranty, there is no coverage for damage caused by hail. However, should the shingles be damaged by hail, there is continuing coverage for manufacturing defects. There is a definite distinction between a manufacturing defect and damage caused by hail. When evaluating hail damage, look for the following conditions: