Hail vs Blistering: What Denver Homeowners Need to Know About Roof Damage
Denver is known for its unpredictable weather, and nowhere is that more evident than on your rooftop. From sudden spring hailstorms to high-altitude UV exposure, your roof takes a beating year-round. But when damage appears—are you looking at hail damage or blistering? The difference matters more than you might think.
In this article, we’re tackling the debate of hail vs blistering to help Denver homeowners understand what’s happening above their heads, how to spot the signs, and what action to take before small issues turn into costly repairs.
Why It’s Important to Know the Difference
When it comes to insurance claims and long-term roof performance, mistaking blistering for hail (or vice versa) can cost you. Hail damage is typically covered by homeowners insurance, while blistering—often a result of poor ventilation or installation—is considered a maintenance issue.
Understanding the hail vs blistering distinction can help you avoid claim denials, premature roof replacements, and contractor miscommunication. And in a place like Denver, where hail is among the most frequent causes of property damage, knowledge is power.
What Is Hail Damage?
Hailstones are essentially balls of ice that range in size from tiny pellets to baseballs. When these chunks of ice slam into your roof, they can cause immediate and visible damage.
Signs of hail damage include:
- Bruised or dented shingles: You may see circular depressions or dark spots.
- Granule loss: Hail often knocks the protective granules off asphalt shingles, shortening their lifespan.
- Cracked or split shingles: This is especially common in older roofs or during severe hailstorms.
- Exposed underlayment: In extreme cases, the impact of hail can strip away shingle layers entirely.
Denver residents are no strangers to summer hailstorms, and even a short event can leave behind significant damage. At Shamrock Roofing, we’ve seen first-hand how fast a Denver storm can turn a healthy roof into a vulnerable one.
What Is Blistering?
Blistering looks similar to hail at first glance, but the cause is completely different. Roof blisters are small, raised areas or “bubbles” on shingles caused by trapped moisture or poor ventilation. Over time, heat causes these pockets to expand and rupture, leaving pockmarks or bare spots on the roof.
Common causes of blistering include:
- Improper attic ventilation: Trapped heat cooks the shingles from below.
- Poor manufacturing: Some lower-quality shingles are more prone to blistering.
- Aging shingles: As shingles near the end of their lifespan, they’re more likely to develop blisters.
- Poor installation: Overheating during manufacturing or faulty adhesive application can create blisters.
In the context of hail vs blistering, it’s worth noting that blistering usually develops gradually and is not a result of impact damage. That’s a major distinction when it comes to determining whether your issue is claim-worthy or not.
Hail vs Blistering: Key Differences
Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you tell them apart:
| Feature | Hail Damage | Blistering |
| Cause | Impact from hailstones | Trapped moisture or heat |
| Timing | Sudden (after a storm) | Gradual (over time) |
| Shape | Circular dents or splits | Raised bubbles, eventually pockmarks |
| Location | Often random and widespread | Commonly on sun-facing slopes |
| Insurance Coverage | Typically covered | Often considered wear and tear |
If you’re ever in doubt about hail vs blistering, call a trusted Denver roofing professional like Shamrock Roofing. Our team is trained to identify the type of damage correctly and guide you through the next steps.
Why Denver Roofs Are at Higher Risk
Denver’s unique weather mix—high altitude, intense UV exposure, and frequent hailstorms—makes it one of the most challenging environments for roofs in the U.S.
- Hail: Colorado ranks second in the nation for hail claims.
- UV Exposure: At one mile above sea level, Denver’s roofs are subjected to harsher sunlight, which accelerates shingle aging and makes blistering more likely.
- Rapid Temperature Swings: Hot days and cool nights can cause roofing materials to expand and contract quickly, leading to stress and damage.
These conditions mean Denver homeowners need to be extra vigilant in monitoring their roofs and scheduling regular inspections—especially after storms.
What to Do If You See Roof Damage
Whether you’re dealing with hail vs blistering, immediate action is key:
- Document the damage with clear photos.
- Check your insurance policy for storm-related coverage.
- Schedule a professional inspection to confirm the type and extent of damage.
- Don’t DIY: Roofing repairs or assessments without proper experience can cause more harm than good—and potentially void warranties.
- Contact Shamrock Roofing for a trusted second opinion.
As one of the leading roofing companies in the Midwest, Shamrock Roofing serves Denver and surrounding communities with fast, honest inspections and repairs. We don’t just fix roofs—we educate homeowners on how to protect their investment.
Final Thoughts on Hail vs Blistering
When it comes to hail vs blistering, don’t leave your roofing diagnosis to guesswork. What may seem like minor damage could either be a quick fix—or a sign of bigger problems. In Denver’s storm-prone climate, knowing the difference could be the key to protecting your home and your wallet.
Need a Roof Inspection in Denver? Contact us Today!
If you suspect your roof has damage but aren’t sure if it’s hail or blistering, let Shamrock Roofing help. Our experts specialize in accurate assessments and honest advice. Book your free inspection today and find out what’s really going on up there—before the next storm hits.