How Does Hail Affect a Cedar Roof?

Cedar shakes and shingles are durable, natural roofing materials—but like any roof in Georgia, they can be damaged by hail. At L&L Roofing & Construction, we inspect and repair cedar roofs after storms to help homeowners understand the impact and their options.

How Hail Damages Cedar Roofs

• Surface Splitting: Hailstones can cause fresh cracks or splits in cedar shakes. These are often sharp-edged and expose raw wood.

• Bruising & Impact Marks: Even when not split, the wood may show dents or crushed fibers that weaken the shingle.

• Accelerated Aging: Damaged areas allow water to penetrate more easily, shortening the life of the roof.

• Granule-Free Material: Unlike asphalt shingles, cedar doesn’t lose granules—but hail can still compromise its structural integrity.

What to Watch for After a Hailstorm

• Visible cracks or missing pieces of cedar shakes

• Splits with fresh, lighter-colored wood exposed

• Leaks or water stains inside your home

• Accumulated wood fragments in gutters or around the home

FAQ: How Does Hail Affect a Cedar Roof?

Q: Is cedar more resistant to hail than asphalt shingles?
A: Cedar can absorb some impact better than asphalt, but large hail can still cause significant damage.

Q: Will small hailstones damage my cedar roof?
A: Small hail may only cause cosmetic marks, but larger hail (1” or more) often causes splits that shorten roof life.

Q: Can I see hail damage from the ground?
A: Not always. Many cracks or bruises are subtle and require a professional inspection.

Q: Does insurance cover hail damage on cedar roofs?
A: In most cases, yes. If hail caused the damage, your homeowner’s insurance may help cover repair or replacement.

At L&L Roofing & Construction, we believe in doing the right thing—because it’s the right thing. That means giving you an honest assessment after a hailstorm and guiding you through repairs or insurance claims if needed.

Call us today at (770) 874-0372 for a cedar roof inspection in Gainesville and nearby areas.