What Size Hail Causes Roof Damage?

Hail starts to threaten most residential roofs at about one inch in diameter, roughly the size of a quarter. At this size, hail can bruise asphalt shingles, knocking off granules and leaving soft spots that may not show damage right away. Wind during a storm can make even smaller hail more damaging, as it strikes at an angle and with more force.

Once hail reaches two inches, about the size of a hen egg, the risk of visible damage increases greatly. You might see cracked or split shingles, dents in metal flashing, or divots in softer roofing materials. Hail bigger than two inches can punch through older or brittle shingles and may even damage the roof deck underneath.

• One inch hail can bruise asphalt shingles
• One and a half inch hail may crack shingles
• Two inch hail often dents metal roofs
• Two and a half inch hail can puncture older roofs
• Wind speed raises the damage risk at any size

After a hailstorm, check your roof for telltale signs. Look for missing granules in your gutters or downspouts, which look like coarse black sand. On asphalt shingles, you might see dark, bruised areas that feel soft or spongy when you press on them. These are not always obvious from the ground, so a close inspection is important.

Also check for cracked or split shingles, especially along the edges, and dents on vents, gutters, or metal flashing. Inside your home, look for water stains on ceilings or walls, which can signal that hail has compromised the roof. If you spot any of these, it is wise to have a professional assess the condition.

Good documentation helps if you decide to file a claim. Take photos of any visible damage, both on the roof and inside your home, and note the date of the storm. Keep records of any temporary repairs you make, like tarping, and save receipts for materials. This information can be useful when discussing the situation with your insurance company.

Water damage documentation is a step that many homeowners skip, but it can make a difference in how smoothly a claim goes. Write down a description of the damage and take wide shots as well as close-ups. If you hire a pro for an assessment, ask for a written report. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.