When hail the size of quarters begins pelting rooftops, it leaves more than just a mark—it raises real concerns about the condition of your home’s first line of defense. The recent hailstorm that swept through East Cleveland, dropping 1.25-inch hailstones, was a powerful reminder of how unpredictable and damaging our weather can be. For homeowners across the East Side, this storm wasn’t just loud—it was potentially costly.
But how can you tell if your roof took a hit? And what steps should you take now?
If you’re unsure whether your home sustained damage, getting a professional roof inspection is your best next move. Even if there’s no visible harm from the ground, hail of this size can cause hidden issues that worsen over time. That’s why Atlas Roofing & Restoration is offering free roof inspections to homeowners in East Cleveland and surrounding communities.
Let’s dive into why this storm matters, what signs to watch for, and how Atlas Roofing & Restoration can help you protect your property.
Why 1.25-Inch Hail Is a Big Deal
Hailstones of 1 inch or larger are considered severe by meteorological standards. Once hail hits the 1.25-inch mark—as it did recently in East Cleveland—it’s large enough to damage:
- Asphalt shingles
- Roof vents and flashing
- Skylights
- Siding and gutters
- Air conditioning units and vehicles
Even if you didn’t see pieces of your roof fall off or find shingles in your yard, hail doesn’t have to break through a roof to weaken it. Shingles can bruise or crack from the impact, and protective granules can be knocked loose, leaving your roof vulnerable to UV damage and water penetration.
Worse yet, this kind of damage isn’t always visible without getting up on the roof—and most homeowners don’t have the tools or training to do that safely or effectively.
What Damage Could Be Hiding on Your Roof?
One of the trickiest aspects of hail damage is that it can go unnoticed until a leak or interior stain develops—often months later. Here’s what could be happening on your roof right now without you knowing:
Granule Loss
Asphalt shingles are coated with granules that protect them from sunlight and rain. Hail can knock these granules off, exposing the asphalt underneath and accelerating roof aging.
Shingle Bruising or Cracking
When hail hits with force, it can create soft spots (bruises) or cracks in shingles. These areas may not leak immediately, but over time, they can fail under heavy rain or snow.
Flashing and Vent Damage
Hail can dent or crack metal flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vents. If these are compromised, water can find its way into your attic or interior walls.
Gutter and Downspout Dents
While cosmetic, dents in gutters can also point to significant hail force that likely affected your roofing materials too.
Why Prompt Inspections Matter
After a storm, many homeowners take a “wait and see” approach—but that can be risky. Insurance policies often limit how long you can file a storm damage claim, and some carriers may deny a claim if too much time has passed between the weather event and your report.
By acting quickly:
- You increase the likelihood of insurance covering repairs.
- You prevent small damage from turning into costly leaks.
- You gain peace of mind knowing your roof is sound—or get ahead of the problem if it isn’t.
Free Inspections from Atlas Roofing & Restoration
Local to Northeast Ohio, Atlas Roofing & Restoration understands the specific storm patterns and roofing needs of East Cleveland. After this most recent hail event, their team of experts is offering no-cost, no-obligation inspections to help homeowners assess their situation.
Here’s what you can expect from a free inspection:
- A thorough evaluation of your roof, gutters, vents, and more
- High-resolution photos showing any visible damage
- Honest recommendations for repair or replacement
- Help navigating insurance claims if necessary
Atlas Roofing & Restoration doesn’t push unnecessary work. If your roof is fine, they’ll tell you. If not, they’ll give you clear, affordable solutions and guide you every step of the way.
East Cleveland Homes Face Added Risk
Many East Cleveland homes were built decades ago and have older roofs that may already be nearing the end of their life span. These aging structures are more vulnerable to hail, even if the roofing system has held up well in the past.
Some homes also feature steep roof pitches, multiple valleys, or architectural elements that trap hail and ice—all increasing the risk of damage.
Whether your roof is five years old or 25, a professional inspection is essential after a storm of this magnitude.
Not All Damage Is Obvious—or Immediate
It’s important to remember: just because your ceiling isn’t leaking today doesn’t mean there’s no damage.
Water intrusion can start slowly, seeping under compromised shingles or flashing. Over weeks or months, that moisture can:
- Rot wooden decking beneath the roof
- Create mold or mildew in attic spaces
- Lead to interior water stains or wall damage
- Reduce your home’s energy efficiency
Preventative inspections and maintenance are always more affordable than major repairs down the line.
The Atlas Roofing & Restoration Difference
What makes Atlas Roofing & Restoration a trusted name across Northeast Ohio?
Local Knowledge
They’ve worked extensively in East Cleveland and surrounding areas. They understand the building codes, the architectural styles, and the insurance processes that matter most to local homeowners.
Storm Damage Expertise
Their team is trained to identify hail and wind damage that others might overlook. They know what insurance adjusters look for—and what they miss.
Insurance Support
They don’t just inspect and walk away. If you need to file a claim, they’ll help you document everything and even meet with your adjuster if needed.
Quality Workmanship
From quick shingle repairs to full roof replacements, they use top-quality materials and back their work with solid warranties.
What’s the Next Step?
If your East Cleveland home was in the path of the recent hailstorm, don’t assume everything is fine based on looks alone. Damage from 1.25-inch hail can be deceptive and destructive over time.
Contact Atlas Roofing & Restoration today to schedule your free inspection. With no cost, no pressure, and no commitment required, you’ve got everything to gain—and nothing to lose.
