Hail Bruising
Hail Bruising | Roof Inspections | Roofing | Charleston
Charleston’s coastal charm comes with a price—sudden hailstorms that can bruise, crack, and weaken even the toughest shingles. HEP’s hail-bruising specialists know exactly where hidden damage likes to hide, pairing decades of local experience with cutting-edge thermal imaging to catch every compromised spot before it spreads. Our thorough roof inspections document each dent and divot, giving you crystal-clear evidence for insurance claims and peace of mind for the next big storm.
From the first friendly greeting to the final, photo-rich report, we make protecting your home effortless. HEP’s certified crews arrive on time, respect your property, and translate roofing jargon into straight talk so you know precisely what needs attention—no high-pressure sales, just honest expertise. Schedule your roof inspections today and let Charleston’s most trusted team turn hail damage into handled damage.
FAQs
What is hail bruising on a roof and why is it a problem?
Hail bruising occurs when hailstones strike an asphalt shingle hard enough to compress the protective granules and dent the underlying mat. The impact leaves a dark, soft spot—much like a bruise on fruit—where granules are missing or loose. While the shingle may not crack immediately, the bruise exposes the asphalt to UV rays and moisture, accelerating deterioration, voiding manufacturer warranties, and eventually causing leaks. Catching bruising early through inspection prevents minor cosmetic damage from becoming major structural or interior water damage.
How can I tell if my Charleston roof has hail bruises?
Signs of hail bruising include crushed or missing granules, faint circular marks, small surface divots you can feel with gentle fingertip pressure, and shingle areas that appear darker than the surrounding roof. You might also find loose granules in gutters or downspouts after a storm. However, bruises can be subtle and unsafe to locate from ground level. A professional inspector uses chalk, drones, and tactile tests to confirm bruising without compromising roof safety.
Why should I schedule a professional roof inspection after a hailstorm instead of checking the roof myself?
Professional inspectors are trained to identify hidden bruises that homeowners often overlook. They document damage with photos and detailed reports required by insurance carriers, reducing claim rejections. Inspectors also spot related issues such as lifted flashings and compromised vents, and they work safely with harnesses, proper footwear, and drones—eliminating the risk of personal injury from slippery or steep Charleston roofs. An expert inspection ultimately saves time, prevents overlooked leaks, and maximizes insurance coverage.
Will my homeowner’s insurance cover hail bruising repairs on my roof in Charleston?
Most standard homeowner policies in South Carolina include hail damage as a named peril, meaning bruising-related repairs are usually covered after you meet your deductible. Timely documentation is key: insurers generally require a claim within 12–24 months of the hail event. A certified inspection report detailing bruise locations, sizes, and photos serves as crucial proof. Keep in mind that cosmetic-only clauses in some policies may exclude surfaces that insurers deem still functional, so confirmation by a qualified roofer strengthens your case.
How soon should hail damage be addressed in Charleston’s humid, coastal climate?
Charleston’s warm, humid air and frequent summer storms accelerate deterioration of hail-bruised shingles. Exposed asphalt absorbs moisture, promoting algae growth and reducing shingle life span. UV rays also intensify granule loss. Industry guidelines recommend an inspection within 72 hours of any hail event producing stones 1 inch or larger. If bruises are found, schedule repairs or a full roof replacement within 30–60 days to avoid secondary water intrusion, mold, and wood rot.
What does a professional hail bruise inspection include and how long does it take?
A standard inspection begins with a ground and attic assessment for leaks or staining, followed by a drone or on-roof visual scan to map hail impact zones. The inspector marks bruises with chalk, measures shingle thickness, tests for mat softness, and checks flashings, vents, gutters, and skylights for collateral damage. High-resolution photos and thermal imaging pinpoint moisture. The process typically takes 60–90 minutes for an average 2,000-square-foot Charleston home, and you receive a written report with repair recommendations and cost estimates within 24 hours.