Storm Damage: Hidden Signs Homeowners Almost Always Miss

The 'looks fine from the street' problem

After a storm, most homeowners walk outside, see no tree on the house, and assume they got lucky. Months later, water starts dripping through a ceiling, and the insurer questions why the claim wasn't filed sooner.

Storm damage is often quiet. Here's what to look for before it becomes loud.

Granule loss in your gutters

Asphalt shingles shed protective granules in heavy wind and hail. A handful of granules at the bottom of a downspout is normal. A cup of them is a flag.

Soft spots on the roof decking

Walk the perimeter and look up. Waviness, soft spots, or shingles that look slightly 'lifted' along an edge usually mean the seal underneath has broken.

Dented soft metals

Look at gutters, downspouts, AC fins, and metal flashing. Dimples and dents on these soft metals are one of the most reliable indicators of a recent hail event, and they're easy to photograph.