What qualifies as hail damage on roof?

Asked by: Daisy Sauer  |  Last update: January 26, 2026
Score: 4.3/5 (18 votes)

Once the hail reaches about 1.5 inches in diameter (about the size of a walnut), it can lead to severe roof damage. If the hail is even larger, 1.75 inches in diameter (the size of a golf ball), then it can start to cause significant damage to vehicles parked outside and buildings.

What constitutes hail damage on a roof?

Also, look for any loss of granules, visible damage to the shingle, and asphalt and/or mat that appears shiny. Look for any splits in shingles that are brown/orange in color, have sharp corners and edges or that have little to no deterioration at the edges. Other issues include impact marks or dents along the splits.

How to assess a roof for hail damage?

If the hail was large enough, you'll see dents/dings on your shingles. However, an absence of noticeable dents doesn't mean hail didn't damage your roof. Other signs that hail damaged your roof are dings/dents/splatter marks to your roof vents, gutters, roof flashing, and other roof penetrations.

Can pea-sized hail damage a roof?

Pea-sized hail: Small hail is less likely to cause direct damage unless there are very strong winds. However, if your area experiences small, pea size hail often, it can slowly damage shingles over time.

Will insurance pay for hail damage to roof?

As long as there are no exclusions and your roof has a viable hail damage claim, you'll get a payout for a new roof. However, whether or not the insurance company gives you enough to cover the full cost depends on your insurance policy (ACV or RCV).

How to inspect your roof for hail damage | Pro Exteriors

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How do insurance adjusters determine hail damage?

Once the test square has been created, the adjuster counts the number of hailstrikes within the square. These hailstrikes have to meet the definition of functional damage. The number of hits required to replace that slope of roof will vary. Different insurance companies have different policies.

Is hail damage worth claiming?

Is filing a claim for hail damage worth it? To determine if you should file a hail damage car insurance claim, compare your comprehensive deductible with the estimate to repair your car. If your repair estimate amount is less than your deductible or close to it, you're better off paying for the repairs out of pocket.

Should I replace roof after hail damage?

If you don't have much damage, roof repairs will be fine, and the repair costs won't be as much as the replacement cost. However, if you have experienced significant hail damage, your roofing contractor will most likely recommend a full roof replacement.

What size hail is needed to damage a roof?

Damage to three-tab asphalt and dimensional-style shingles, the most widely used roofing materials, requires a hailstone size of 1 to 1 ¼ inches – or quarter- to golf ball-sized hail.

How much hail damage to replace a roof?

If this happens, you certainly have a viable claim for hail damage. When an insurance adjuster is looking for a quantifiable amount of hail marks, they will test a 10' x 10' square span for hail marks. Typically, if they find 7-10 hail impact marks in the test area, they will recommend a complete roof replacement.

How do home inspectors check for roof damage?

Visual inspection

Roofing inspectors typically are physically on the roof, examining the various roofing components, from shingles to flashing and vents. Then, they'll walk around searching for signs of damage or irregularities. They'll often take pictures to accompany their report.

How long do I have to report hail damage on my roof?

However, most insurance companies will allow you to file a hail claim within a year from the date of loss. Still, it is completely up to the insurance company to determine this time limit. For this reason, you should check your policy or contact your insurer as soon as possible after a hail storm.

How much does hail damage repair cost?

On average, car owners can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $3,000 for hail damage repair. These numbers are a wide spread, and the actual cost will fall somewhere between the two extremes, but a deeper dive into the particular circumstances can better refine these estimates.

How do you negotiate a hail damage claim?

Six Tips for Dealing with an Insurance Adjuster on Hail Damage
  1. Gather evidence of hail damage.
  2. Take proactive measures to keep damage from getting worse.
  3. Be prepared when the claims adjuster assesses your property's damage.
  4. Refuse to give a recorded statement.
  5. Anticipate negotiations.
  6. Seek legal counsel.

What qualifies as a hail resistant roof?

Professionals consider rubber roofs and synthetic roofs, some of the most hail-resistant roofing materials on the market. They are affordable, light, and made of recycled materials. The hail bounces right off a plastic roof and a rubber roof.

What does a hail hit look like on a roof?

Signs of Damage on Composite and Asphalt Shingles

Indentations: Look for dimples or depressions in the shingle surface. They can be round or irregular and may vary in size, depending on the hailstone or debris that caused them. Black scuffs: These will appear as dark, streaky marks on the shingle surface.

What is considered hail damage to shingles?

For asphalt shingled roofs, hail damage typically consists of radial/circular areas of granule loss, which constitute latent damage and may affect the future performance and lifespan of the shingles.

Will pea size hail damage a roof?

Pea-sized Hail (around 1/4 inch): Pea-sized hail typically doesn't cause significant damage to most roofing materials. However, it's worth noting that repeated impacts over time may lead to wear and tear, especially on older or worn-out roofs.

Will insurance cover old hail damage to roof?

Your insurance may cover a new roof if hail damage is found, even if the roof is old. It does depend on other factors, though, which is another reason you need a detailed inspection report.

Should I claim hail damage on my house?

Hail can damage your home, so it may make sense to file an insurance claim. Take photos of the damage, but don't start repairs yourself. Be sure the contractor you hire is licensed. Your insurance may issue a payout in one of a few ways.

Can you claim hail damage twice on roof?

The short answer to this question is "yes." You have the right to submit as many hail damage claims as you want.

How do you prove hail damage?

Check your home's exterior for damage, including checking for dimples or dents in siding (a common form of hail damage). Check for leaks in the attic, and water damage on the ceilings. Inspect the ground for pieces of roof shingles. This may mean your roof has sustained damage.

Does home insurance go up after hail claim?

After you file a home insurance claim, it's possible that your premium will increase when your policy renews. If you file one claim, your insurance company may see you as likely to file another in the future. To offset the cost of that potential claim, your insurance company may charge you more for your policy.

Do you have to disclose hail damage?

It's technically legal to sell a vehicle with hail damage. This is true even if you don't repair the damage. However, you will need to disclose everything to potential buyers so that they can make informed purchasing decisions.