How to Assess and Repair RV Hail Damage Before It Gets Worse

Hailstorms don’t give much warning, and by the time the ice stops falling, the damage is already done. What looks like a few harmless dents or cracks can turn into major repair bills if ignored. Whether it’s a rubber roof, fiberglass siding, or aluminum panels, every part of an RV is vulnerable. The key is spotting the damage early and handling it the right way before leaks, rust, or structural issues set in.

Assessing the Damage

After a storm, the first instinct might be to check the obvious spots—the roof, the sides, maybe the awning. But hail doesn’t hit just one area. It can cause problems in places that aren’t immediately visible.

Roof Inspection

Most RV roofs are either rubber (EPDM or TPO), fiberglass, or aluminum. Rubber roofs can develop soft spots where the hail has weakened the material. Fiberglass roofs may crack or develop hairline fractures. Aluminum roofs, while strong, can dent badly and warp under heavy impact.

Start by feeling for soft spots

Running a hand along the surface can reveal weak areas that might not be visible.

Check for punctures

Even small tears in a rubber roof can lead to leaks later.

Inspect around vents and skylights

Hail can loosen sealants, which creates an entry point for water.

A close inspection is best done in good lighting. Water pooling on the roof, even in small amounts, is a sign that something isn’t right.

Side Panel and Window Damage

Aluminum and fiberglass siding take hits differently. Aluminum will dent, while fiberglass can crack. Both can allow moisture in if the damage is bad enough.

Feel for irregularities

Running a hand along the surface can reveal dings that are hard to see.

Look for stress cracks around windows

The force of hail can weaken areas near seams and trim.

Check the seals

Window and door seals may loosen from the impact.

Cracks or loose trim around windows can cause long-term problems. Water gets in, and once moisture reaches the insulation, mold and rot aren’t far behind.

Vents, AC Covers, and Awnings

Plastic vent covers and air conditioner shrouds are often the first things to go. Even a minor crack in a vent cover can let in enough rain to cause interior damage. Awnings, while flexible, can get punctured by larger hailstones, especially if the storm came with strong wind.

Look for cracks in plastic components

Even hairline fractures will expand over time.

Test awning function

If the frame is bent, it may not retract smoothly.

Check the AC unit

Dents in the housing might mean internal damage to the coils.

Repairing Dents in Siding

Aluminum siding dents are common, but not all need immediate fixing. If the damage is purely cosmetic, it might not be worth the effort. However, deep dents or bent panels can trap moisture, leading to corrosion.

Suction dent pullers work on minor dents

This method is best for smoother surfaces.

The heat-and-cool method can help

Heating the area with a hairdryer and then spraying it with compressed air may pop some dents back out.

Severely damaged panels should be replaced

If the aluminum is creased or cracked, it’s best to swap it out before rust starts forming.

Fiberglass siding requires a different approach. If the gel coat is cracked, it needs sanding, filling, and repainting. A fiberglass repair kit is enough for small areas, but matching the paint can be tricky without professional help.

Roof Repairs

Fixing a rubber roof depends on the severity of the damage.

Small punctures can be sealed with a patch kit

These are easy to apply and can extend the life of the roof.

Larger holes require a full section replacement

If water has already seeped in, drying the area first is crucial.

Seams and seals should be reinforced

Even if no visible damage is found, resealing joints around vents, skylights, and edges prevents future leaks.

Fiberglass roofs should be treated like fiberglass siding. Cracks need an epoxy resin to stop water from getting in. Since fiberglass is prone to stress fractures, it’s smart to inspect the entire surface, not just the obvious impact points.

Preventing Water Damage

A leak might not show up immediately after a hailstorm. Sometimes, it takes weeks for moisture to become visible inside. The best way to prevent this is by sealing any potential weak spots right away.

Use a moisture meter

Checking around windows, doors, and ceiling panels can reveal hidden leaks.

Apply fresh sealant to seams and joints

Silicone-based sealants last longer than traditional putties.

Inspect the ceiling for soft spots

A sagging or discolored ceiling panel means water is getting in somewhere.

Replacing Damaged Vents and Covers

Broken vent covers and AC shrouds should be replaced immediately. Even small cracks allow rain to get in, leading to mold, rot, or electrical problems.

Measure carefully before ordering replacements

Slight size differences can lead to fitment issues.

Use self-leveling lap sealant for a waterproof finish

This prevents leaks around the edges.

Test moving parts

If a vent lid doesn’t open and close smoothly, it might not seal properly.

Filing an Insurance Claim

If the hail damage is more than cosmetic, insurance may cover repairs. The process is easier with thorough documentation.

Take photos immediately after the storm

Wide shots and close-ups help prove the extent of the damage.

Get a professional inspection if needed

Some insurance companies require an expert assessment before approving a claim.

Read the policy carefully

Some plans only cover functional damage, not cosmetic issues.

If filing a claim, acting fast increases the chances of approval. Waiting too long might result in denial due to “delayed reporting.”

When to Get Professional Help

Some RV owners handle their own repairs, but certain situations call for expert work.

Roof damage that affects large areas may require a full replacement.

Fiberglass cracks that spread over time can weaken the structure if not repaired correctly.

Leaks that won’t go away mean moisture has already reached the insulation or framework.

A bad DIY repair can sometimes cause more problems than the original damage. If in doubt, an experienced technician can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action.

Hail damage might not seem like an urgent issue at first, but ignoring it can lead to serious problems. Taking time to inspect and repair the damage as soon as possible prevents costly repairs down the road. Whether handling it personally or bringing in a professional, staying ahead of potential issues keeps an RV in solid shape for years to come.