Phone answered 24/7 · Bellingham, WA and nearby communities

Call 24/7: (360) 685-7801
Whatcom Creek Water Damage HelpBellingham, WA · Answered 24/7

What Hail Size Causes the Most Serious Roof Damage?

Last updated October 26, 2026

Call Now (360) 685-7801

The short answer

Hail Size and Roof Damage

Hailstones vary widely in size, from small pellets to baseball-sized chunks. The most serious roof damage usually comes from hail that measures two inches or more across. At that size, the weight and velocity behind each stone can break through asphalt shingles, leave dents in metal roofs, and crack older or brittle materials.

Wind plays a big role too. A strong gust can drive hail sideways, hitting your roof at an angle that increases the force. Even smaller hail can cause harm if the wind is severe or if your roof is already worn. So size matters, but it is not the only factor.

How Hail Damages Different Roofing Materials

Asphalt shingles are common and can show damage as bruising or granule loss. When hail impacts, it knocks off the protective granules, exposing the mat underneath. That makes the shingle more vulnerable to sun and water. Larger hail can crack or tear the shingle entirely.

Metal roofs handle small hail well, but big stones can dent or scratch the surface. Dents may not leak right away, but they can weaken the metal over time. Wood shakes and tile roofs can crack or split, leaving gaps where water can enter. Each material reacts differently to the same storm.

Signs of Hail Damage to Look For

After a hailstorm, check your roof from the ground with binoculars if you can. Look for missing shingles, dark spots, or areas where granules have collected in gutters. On metal, look for dents or scratches. Inside your home, watch for water stains on ceilings or walls, which can signal a leak.

Do not walk on the roof yourself if it is steep or wet. A fall is a real risk. If you see signs of damage, contact a local water damage pro to inspect the roof and attic. They can identify issues you might miss and help you understand what needs repair.

Bullet points to check for hail damage:

Check for missing or cracked shingles, dark or bruised spots on asphalt, granules in gutters or downspouts, dents or scratches on metal flashing, and water stains on ceilings or walls.

What to Do After a Hailstorm

Act quickly after a hailstorm. The longer water sits, the more damage it can cause to your roof, attic, insulation, and walls. If you see active leaking, place a bucket under the drip and move valuables away. A local water damage pro can tarp a damaged roof to prevent further water entry until repairs are done.

Document the damage with photos and notes. That helps your insurance company understand what happened. Keep any hail samples if you can, and note the date and time of the storm. This record can be useful when you file a claim. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Preventing Future Hail Damage

You cannot stop hail, but you can reduce the risk. If your roof is old or already damaged, consider replacing it with impact-resistant materials. Those are designed to withstand larger hail better than standard shingles. Also, keep trees trimmed so branches do not fall on the roof during a storm.

Regular roof maintenance helps too. Check for loose or missing shingles before storm season. Clean gutters so water can flow away easily. If you live in a rainy climate, staying ahead of small issues is wise. A local water damage pro can help with inspections and repairs.

  • Use impact-resistant roofing materials
  • Trim overhanging branches near the roof
  • Inspect your roof before storm season
  • Clean gutters and downspouts regularly
  • Fix small leaks right away to avoid bigger issues

Talk to someone now

Call (360) 685-7801 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.

Call Now (360) 685-7801

Frequently asked questions

Can small hail cause roof damage?

Small hail, under one inch, can cause minor damage like granule loss on asphalt shingles, but it rarely leads to serious leaks. However, if the wind is strong or your roof is old, even small hail can be a problem. Always check for signs after any storm.

How do I know if my roof is damaged after hail?

Look for missing shingles, dark spots, or granules in gutters. Inside, check for water stains on ceilings. If you are unsure, contact a local water damage pro to inspect. They can spot damage that is not visible from the ground.

Should I file an insurance claim for hail damage?

If you have significant damage, filing a claim makes sense. Document everything with photos and notes. Contact your insurance company to start the process. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. A pro can help you understand the extent of damage before you call.

Call Now (360) 685-7801