While the most severe and noticeable damage comes from hailstones the size of quarters or larger, even less violent storms can cause damage that builds up over time. As hail damage causes shingles to weaken and pull away from their backing, other issues may arise.
This loss in structural integrity can have a ripple effect on your entire roof. UV rays from the sun can cause exposed and unprotected areas of your roof to become brittle and more susceptible to leaks.
Your roof may also absorb more water from rain and snow when it’s damaged by a hail storm. In the winter, freezing might cause the water absorbed by the shingles to expand, damaging them even further. A damaged roof may reduce its ability to insulate the house, cause serious leaks, introduce mold into the house, and lead to electrical damage.
Essentially, hail damage can become a serious issue long before you notice it on your roof!