Hailstorms can be nerve-wracking for homeowners, especially when considering the potential hail damage on roofs. But what size of hail can damage roofs, and how can you protect your property? In this post, we’ll break down the impact of different hail sizes and provide insight into when you should take action to safeguard your roof.
After any major storm, Benny’s Roofing is here to help. If you’ve experienced a hailstorm in your area, our storm damage repair service can assess you.
The Impact of Hail on Your Roof
Hail can range in size from small, almost harmless pebbles to large, damaging stones. The extent of hail damage on roofs depends not only on the size of the hail but also on factors such as wind speed, storm duration, and even the angle of impact. While a brief hailstorm might leave your roof unscathed, a more prolonged or intense storm could cause serious issues.
Why Hail Size Matters
Understanding the size of hail that can damage roofs is crucial for knowing when to act. Larger hailstones carry more energy, resulting in more severe damage. Roofs with pre-existing weaknesses, such as older shingles or compromised flashing, are particularly vulnerable to larger hailstones.
What Size Hail Can Damage Your Roof?
Let’s explore the various hail sizes and their potential to damage your roof:
Pea-sized hail (1/4 inch)
While the sound of pea-sized hail hitting your roof can be alarming, this size rarely causes any significant damage to well-maintained roofs. However, if your roof is older or already has minor wear, it’s always a good idea to check for small dents or dings.
Marble-Sized Hail (1/2 inch)
Marble-sized hail can begin to pose a risk to roofs, particularly those made from more fragile materials like wood shakes or older asphalt shingles. Although significant damage is still uncommon, it’s smart to keep an eye on vulnerable areas, especially if the storm is prolonged.
Dime-Sized Hail (3/4 inch)
At this size, hailstones have the potential to cause damage to vinyl siding, paint, and wood shakes. Roofs with asphalt shingles may not suffer immediate damage, but repeated storms with this size of hail can weaken shingles over time, leading to long-term issues.
Quarter-Sized Hail (1 inch)
Quarter-sized hail is where homeowners should start to worry. This size of hail is large enough to cause significant damage to roofs, especially asphalt shingles, clay tiles, or even metal roofing. Cracked shingles, dents, and leaks can occur, and a professional inspection is recommended after such a storm.
Golf Ball-Sized Hail (1.5 inches) and Larger
When hail reaches golf ball size and beyond, the potential for roof damage is severe. Large hailstones can puncture shingles, crack tiles, and even damage the roof’s underlying structure. If your home experiences hail this large, it’s vital to have your roof inspected immediately to prevent further damage from leaks or structural issues.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, hail larger than one inch is classified as severe, meaning it can cause substantial property damage, including roof destruction.
Identifying Hail Damage on Your Roof
It’s important to inspect your roof after any hailstorm, particularly if the hail is quarter-sized or larger. Here’s what to look for when assessing hail damage on roofs:
Visual Inspection from the Ground
Without getting on your roof, you can check for obvious signs of damage:
- Missing or cracked shingles
- Dented metal roofing or gutters
- Accumulation of shingle granules in gutters
- Visible damage to vents, flashing, or skylights
Close-Up Inspection (If Safe)
If you feel confident and safe inspecting your roof closer up, look for:
- Circular cracks or dents on shingles
- Soft spots or areas that feel “spongy.”
- Exposed fiberglass matting beneath the shingle surface
Given the risks involved with climbing onto a roof, it’s often best to leave this task to the professionals at Benny’s Roofing. We can perform a thorough inspection to determine the extent of damage and the best repair options.
Protecting Your Roof from Hail Damage
While hailstorms are out of your control, there are measures you can take to help prevent hail damage on roofs.
Regular Roof Maintenance
Routine maintenance is your first line of defense. Scheduling regular inspections and fixing small issues early can help extend the life of your roof and prevent more serious damage in the future. A well-maintained roof is far more likely to withstand the impact of smaller hailstones.
Impact-Resistant Roofing Materials
Consider upgrading to impact-resistant shingles or tiles, especially if you live in a hail-prone region. These materials are designed to absorb the impact of hailstones better, significantly reducing the chance of damage. According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, using Class 4 impact-resistant shingles can reduce roof damage from hail and potentially lower your homeowner’s insurance premiums.
Protective Measures for Your Roof
In areas where hailstorms are frequent, you may want to install hail guards or screens to shield vulnerable parts of your roof. While these measures may not fully protect against the largest hailstones, they can help minimize damage from smaller storms.
What to Do After a Hailstorm
After a hailstorm, especially one involving quarter-sized hail or larger, it’s crucial to act quickly:
- Document the damage: Take photos and videos of any visible hail damage.
- Contact your insurance provider: Report the damage and begin the claims process.
- Schedule a professional inspection: Contact a trusted roofing contractor, like Benny’s Roofing, to assess the damage and make recommendations for repairs.
Our experienced team can help with storm damage repair, working directly with insurance companies to ensure you get the coverage you deserve. Don’t wait until leaks or further damage occur—address the problem right away.
How Benny’s Roofing Can Help You
At Benny’s Roofing, we understand the stress and urgency that comes with hail damage. Our expert team offers comprehensive storm damage repair services, from detailed inspections to long-lasting repairs. We specialize in identifying hidden damage that may not be visible from the ground and work with high-quality, hail-resistant materials to ensure your roof is ready for the next storm.
Whether your roof has minor or severe hail damage, we’re here to restore your home’s safety and comfort. Don’t leave your roof’s condition to chance—book your services now!
