Hail Bruising
Hail Bruising | Roof Inspections | Roofing | Gatlinburg
When Gatlinburg’s sudden mountain hailstorms pepper your shingles with dime-sized dimples, the damage isn’t just skin-deep—it’s a ticking clock toward leaks, rot, and costly structural repairs. HEP’s seasoned pros uncover what the untrained eye misses, using infrared cameras, moisture meters, and decades of Smoky Mountain experience to perform meticulous roof inspections that document every bruise for your insurance adjuster.
From same-day arrivals to crystal-clear photo reports and honest repair estimates, we make protecting your cabin or chalet Happy, Easy, and Professional. Schedule your free hail-bruise evaluation today and see why Gatlinburg homeowners trust HEP to keep the view above as perfect as the one below.
FAQs
How can I tell if my roof has hail bruising damage?
Hail bruising usually appears as dark, soft spots on asphalt shingles where the granules have been displaced. Unlike obvious punctures or cracks, bruises are often subtle and can be missed from the ground. If you notice discolored circles, exposed black substrate, or granule accumulation in your gutters after a storm, you may have hail bruising. A qualified inspector will gently press on suspect areas to feel for the tell-tale “give” that indicates hidden damage to the shingle’s mat.
Why is hail bruising a serious issue for my Gatlinburg home?
Bruised shingles lose their protective granule layer, making the underlying asphalt mat vulnerable to UV rays, moisture, and temperature swings common in the Smoky Mountains. Over time, these spots can crack, allowing water to penetrate the roof deck and cause leaks, mold, and structural rot. Addressing bruising early protects your investment and prevents larger, more expensive repairs down the road.
What happens during a professional hail bruising roof inspection?
Our trained technicians start with a free visual assessment from the ground and then access the roof with safety gear. We mark hail hits with chalk, measure the bruised area density per roofing square, and check soft metal components (vents, flashing, gutters) for impact dents as corroborating evidence. We also photograph every bruise and note shingle manufacturer, age, and overall roof condition. A written report with photos and repair recommendations is delivered within 24 hours.
How soon after a hailstorm should I schedule an inspection in Gatlinburg?
As soon as it is safe. Gatlinburg’s humid climate accelerates moisture absorption in bruised shingles, so we recommend calling within 72 hours of a hail event. Most insurance policies require damage to be reported promptly—often within 6–12 months—but early documentation strengthens your claim and helps prevent further deterioration caused by repeated rain and temperature fluctuations.
Will my homeowner’s insurance cover hail bruising repairs?
In most cases, yes. Hail is considered a named peril in standard Tennessee homeowner policies. Coverage typically applies when the damage compromises the roof’s ability to shed water, even if you don’t yet have active leaks. You will be responsible for any deductible. Our inspection report includes the photo evidence, measurements, and repair estimate insurers require, and we can meet adjusters on-site to advocate for a fair settlement.
How does your company document hail damage for insurance claims?
We use a combination of high-resolution photography, drone imagery, and HAAG-certified roofing inspection protocols. Each bruise is labeled with chalk and photographed alongside a ruler for scale. We compile these images into a PDF report that details slope orientation, shingle type, storm date, and National Weather Service hail size data for Gatlinburg. This thorough documentation streamlines the claims process and helps ensure you receive the coverage you’re entitled to.