The short answer
Hail Size and Common Damage Thresholds
Hail size is measured by its diameter. Pea-sized hail, about a quarter inch, rarely causes property damage. Marble-sized hail, around half an inch, might bruise leaves but is still unlikely to harm your home. Once hail reaches one inch, the size of a quarter, it can start causing noticeable cosmetic and functional damage to building materials.
At one inch, you might see dents in window screens, aluminum siding, and soft metal roof vents. This size can also bruise and crack asphalt roofing shingles, potentially compromising their waterproof seal. Hailstones measuring 1.5 inches, similar to a ping-pong ball, have enough mass to break wood shingles and crack vinyl siding or gutter systems.
When Hail Causes Water Intrusion and Leaks
Water damage from hail often starts when the protective outer layer of your roof is compromised. Hailstones create small fractures or bruising in shingles, which can lift the protective granules away. This exposes the asphalt or felt underneath to the elements, allowing water to seep through during the next rainstorm, often without an obvious leak at first.
Larger hail can directly puncture roofing materials. This includes breaking fiberglass shingles, cracking clay or concrete tiles, and shattering skylights or roof vents. A puncture creates an immediate opening for water to enter your attic and ceilings. Even small, repeated hail impacts can weaken a roof over time, making it more susceptible to failure during heavy winds or rain.
- Cracked or missing shingle granules, leaving dark spots.
- Bruises or soft spots on shingles that feel spongy.
- Dented or cracked flashing around chimneys and vents.
- Shattered skylights or cracked window seals.
- Dents in gutters and downspouts that disrupt water flow.
- Punctures in soft metal roof valleys or seams.
Inspecting Your Property After a Hailstorm
After a hailstorm passes, you can perform a visual inspection from the ground. Use binoculars to look for missing shingle granules collecting in gutters or at downspout outlets. Check for dents on your air conditioning unit, vents, and siding. Look for any obvious damage to windows, screens, or exterior light fixtures, which are often the first signs of impact.
It is crucial to inspect your attic as well. Go into the attic with a flashlight and look for any signs of daylight coming through the roof decking. Check for water stains, damp insulation, or moisture on the wood framing. If you see any of these signs, water is likely entering your home and you should contact local water damage pros for an inspection.
The Role of a Professional Inspection
A professional inspection is important because hail damage is not always obvious from the ground. The pros have the tools and training to safely access and evaluate your roof. They can identify subtle damage like fractured shingle mats or compromised seals that you might miss, which are critical for determining the full extent of potential water intrusion risks.
The inspection report from the pros documents the type and extent of damage. This detailed assessment is often required by your insurance company when filing a claim. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. An accurate report helps ensure all necessary repairs are identified and can prevent future leaks that stem from overlooked hail damage.
Next Steps for Hail Damage Repair
If hail damage is confirmed, the primary goal is to prevent water from entering your home. The pros may recommend temporary measures like tarping the roof to protect it until permanent repairs can be scheduled. They can also help identify which interior areas are at immediate risk and may need moisture monitoring or drying equipment to prevent secondary damage.
Permanent repairs involve replacing damaged roofing materials, siding, or gutters. For commercial properties like stores or hotels, the scale is larger and may involve coordinating with property managers. The repair process focuses on restoring the building envelope's integrity. The cost depends on the materials, the extent of damage, and the property's size, so getting a thorough assessment is the first practical step.
Talk to someone now
Call (405) 565-9833 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
Can hail damage cause mold growth?
Yes, if hail damage allows water to seep into walls, ceilings, or insulation and it is not dried quickly, it creates the damp conditions where mold can grow. Mold can begin developing within 24 to 48 hours. If you suspect a hidden leak, have the area inspected and dried promptly to prevent mold issues.
What should I do if my skylight is broken by hail?
Cover the broken skylight from the inside with plastic sheeting and tape to prevent rain from entering. Then, contact a roofer for a permanent repair or replacement. Water entering through a broken skylight can damage ceilings, walls, and flooring, so addressing it quickly is important to limit water damage.
Does homeowners insurance cover hail damage?
Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover sudden, accidental damage from hail. This typically includes repair costs for your roof, siding, and damaged personal property inside from resulting water leaks. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. You should review your policy and report the damage to start the claims process.