What Is Hail Damage and How Does It Affect Roofing Materials?

September 5, 2024
hail on roof after storm

Hail damage might sound like a distant concern until you’ve actually experienced it.

Hailstones, depending on their size, strike the roof with enough force to cause dents, cracks, and even punctures. While you may not notice these issues immediately, the damage can compromise your roof’s protective layers, leading to leaks, water damage, and mold growth down the road.

But not all roofing materials are affected the same way. Asphalt shingles, for example, might lose granules, creating vulnerable spots for future weathering, while metal roofs could show dents but still hold strong. The severity of the damage depends on the hail’s size, the wind speed, and even the age and material of your roof.

Whether you’ve just faced a storm or you’re preparing for the next one, understanding how hail impacts your roof is the first step in protecting your home.

Table of Contents

What Size of Hail Causes Roof Damage?

One question that comes up often is, “How big does hail have to be to damage my roof?” The answer might surprise you-it doesn’t always take giant, golf-ball-sized hail to cause problems. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how different sizes of hail can affect roofing materials:

Pea-Sized Hail (1/4 inch)

Pea-sized hail is relatively small and rarely causes significant damage to roofs. However, repeated exposure to such small hailstones over time can wear down roofing materials, particularly asphalt shingles, leading to gradual deterioration. While this size of hail is unlikely to cause immediate problems, it can contribute to the aging process of a roof.

Marble-Sized Hail (1/2 inch)

Marble-sized hail is more likely to cause minor damage, especially to older roofs or those made from softer materials like asphalt shingles. This size of hail can lead to the loss of granules on shingles, which are crucial for protecting the roof from UV damage and providing water resistance. While the damage might not be immediately obvious, it can reduce the lifespan of the roof.

Dime to Quarter-Sized Hail (3/4 inch to 1 inch)

Hailstones in this size range are more likely to cause noticeable damage to roofing materials. The impact of hail this size can bruise shingles, crack tiles, or dent metal roofs. Bruising refers to areas where the protective granules are knocked off the shingle, leaving dark spots that are more susceptible to further damage. These bruises can weaken the shingle and lead to leaks over time.

Golf Ball-Sized Hail (1.75 inches)

Golf ball-sized hailstones are large enough to cause severe damage to most roofing materials. The force of these hailstones can create deep dents, punctures, and cracks in shingles, tiles, and metal roofs. In some cases, hail of this size can even puncture the roof deck, leading to immediate leaks and water damage inside the home.

Larger Hail (2 inches and above)

Hailstones larger than 2 inches in diameter almost always result in significant roof damage, often necessitating roof replacement. The sheer size and weight of these hailstones can shatter tiles, create large dents in metal roofs, and cause asphalt shingles to crack or become dislodged. When a roof is hit by hail of this magnitude, it’s essential to have a professional inspection to assess the full extent of the damage.

Assessing the Signs of Hail Damage

Inspecting your roof might not be on the top of your to-do list after a storm, but it’s one of the smartest moves you can make to protect your home. The problem is, hail damage isn’t always obvious. That’s why we’ve put together a few key steps to help you assess the damage before it turns into costly repairs.

DIY Inspection Tips

The first step is a simple visual inspection. You don’t need fancy tools-just your eyes, a good vantage point, and maybe a pair of binoculars. Here’s what to look for:

  • Dents and Dings: Pay attention to metal components like flashing and gutters. If they’re dented, there’s a good chance your shingles took a hit too.
  • Shingle Damage: Look for missing granules (dark spots on the shingles) or cracks. Granule loss means the protective layer is compromised, and cracks mean water could seep in.
  • Leaks Inside: Check your attic for water stains, mold, or damp spots. This could indicate that hail has damaged your roof’s protective layers, allowing moisture to enter.

If you spot any of these issues, don’t delay. Catching the damage early can save you from dealing with leaks or even more extensive repairs down the line.

What Does Hail Damage Do to a Roof?

Hail damage can have a cumulative effect on your roof. Even minor damage can accelerate wear and tear, leading to bigger problems like water damage, mold, and structural decay. Asphalt shingles, for instance, are designed to protect your roof from the elements, but if granules are knocked loose by hail, those vulnerable spots become prime targets for leaks. Metal roofs might not suffer leaks as quickly, but visible dents can weaken the structure, leading to future problems.

The bottom line: hail damage might start small, but it won’t stay that way if left unaddressed. That’s why it’s critical to assess the situation right after a storm.

When to Call a Professional

Sure, DIY inspections are great, but when should you bring in the pros? If you see widespread damage, or you’re just not sure whether what you’re looking at is serious, it’s time to call a professional roofer. They’ll perform a more detailed inspection, checking for damage beneath the surface that you might not notice.

Calling in a professional early can save you from a world of trouble-and potentially a lot of money-down the line.

Insurance Claims for Roof Hail Damage

Dealing with hail damage is stressful enough, but filing an insurance claim can feel like a whole new challenge. The good news? With the right approach, you can maximize your claim and get the compensation you need to fix your roof properly.

How to File a Claim

  1. Document Everything: Start by taking photos of the damage-both wide shots and close-ups. Don’t forget to document the storm’s aftermath inside your home, especially if there’s water damage.
  2. Contact Your Insurance Company: Once you’ve documented everything, get in touch with your insurance provider as soon as possible. Most policies have time limits for filing claims, so don’t wait too long.
  3. Schedule an Adjuster Visit: Your insurance company will send an adjuster to assess the damage. Be sure to be present during the visit to point out all the problem areas you’ve identified.

What to Expect

Adjusters will estimate the cost of repairs, but their assessment might not always match up with the estimates from contractors. If their offer seems too low, don’t be afraid to push back-getting multiple quotes from roofers can help you negotiate a better settlement.

Tips for Maximizing Your Claim

  • Get Multiple Estimates: Having more than one estimate from contractors can give you leverage during negotiations.
  • Hire a Public Adjuster: If you’re not satisfied with your insurance company’s assessment, a public adjuster can advocate on your behalf to get the best payout.

Preventing Future Hail Damage

If you live in an area prone to hail, it makes sense to think ahead. After all, the best way to deal with hail damage is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here’s what you can do:

Reinforcing Your Roof with Upgrades and Improvements

  • Impact-Resistant Shingles: These shingles are designed to withstand severe weather, including hail. They may cost more upfront, but they can save you a lot of money in future repairs.
  • Reinforce Roof Decking: Strengthening the structure beneath your shingles can add an extra layer of protection, making your roof more resilient to impact.

Maintenance Tips

  • Regular Inspections: Twice a year is a good rule of thumb-once in the spring and again in the fall.
  • Clear Gutters and Downspouts: Make sure they’re free of debris so water can flow away from your roof properly during storms.

Cost Considerations for Hail Damage

Roof repairs aren’t cheap, but knowing what to expect can help you budget more effectively. Here’s a breakdown:

Repair vs. Replacement

  • Minor Damage: Small repairs (like replacing a few shingles) can range from $300 to $1,500.
  • Severe Damage: If your roof is severely damaged, a full replacement could cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000, depending on materials and labor.

Budgeting for Roof Repairs

Plan ahead and be prepared for emergency repairs. Having a rainy-day fund specifically for home maintenance can ease the financial burden when unexpected repairs pop up.

Conclusion

Roof hail damage is a serious concern for homeowners, especially in regions prone to severe weather. By understanding the potential impact of hail on your roof, conducting regular inspections, and taking proactive measures to prevent damage, you can protect your home and avoid costly repairs. If your roof has been damaged by hail, it’s important to act quickly to assess the damage, file an insurance claim, and make the necessary repairs or replacements.

Investing in durable roofing materials and maintaining your roof regularly can also help minimize the risk of future damage. Whether you’re dealing with a minor repair or a full roof replacement, having a plan in place and budgeting accordingly can help you navigate the process with confidence.

For more information on roofing services and to schedule an inspection, contact us today.

FAQs

What does hail damage do to shingles?

Hail damage can cause shingles to crack, lose granules, and develop bruises, leading to reduced protection against the elements. Over time, these issues can worsen, leading to leaks and water damage.

Do shingle warranties cover hail damage?

Most shingle warranties do not cover hail damage unless specified in the terms. It’s important to check with your manufacturer or installer to understand the coverage provided by your warranty. Some manufacturers offer limited coverage for hail damage, particularly if the shingles are rated for impact resistance.

How big does hail need to be to damage a roof?

Hail as small as 1 inch in diameter can cause significant roof damage, particularly to older roofs or those made from less durable materials like asphalt shingles. Larger hailstones, such as those 2 inches or more in diameter, can cause severe damage, including punctures and cracks in the roof’s surface.

How can I tell if my roof has been previously damaged by hail?

Signs of previous hail damage include dents in metal flashing, gutters, and downspouts, missing or damaged shingles, and dark spots on shingles where granules have been knocked off. If you’re unsure whether your roof has been damaged, a professional inspection can help identify any issues.

What are the long-term effects of untreated hail damage?

Untreated hail damage can lead to a range of long-term issues, including water leaks, mold growth, wood rot, and structural damage. Over time, these problems can worsen, leading to more extensive and costly repairs.

Are there specific roofing materials that are more hail-resistant?

Metal roofs, impact-resistant shingles, and tile or slate roofs are generally more durable and better able to withstand the impact of hailstones.

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Additional Roofing Resources