When hail strikes, your roof is often the part of your home that takes the greatest impact. While not every hailstorm causes roof damage, certain types of hail can leave lasting effects that compromise your roof’s integrity. Understanding the factors that determine whether hail will damage your roof can help you act quickly after a storm and prevent minor issues from becoming costly repairs.
The size of hailstones is one of the most critical factors in determining roof damage. In general, hailstones need to be at least 1 inch in diameter, about the size of a quarter, to harm asphalt shingles or wood shakes. However, smaller hail can still cause problems if your roof is older, worn, or already weakened.
Larger hailstones, such as those the size of golf balls or baseballs, can inflict immediate and severe damage. They can crack shingles, shatter tiles, and dent metal roofing. After a hailstorm, especially when larger hail is reported, scheduling a roof inspection is essential.
Hailstones differ in density and shape, which directly affects how damaging they can be. Dense, solid hailstones hit with greater force than softer ones, and those with jagged or irregular edges can puncture or fracture roofing materials more easily than smooth, round stones. These unique characteristics often create uneven patterns of roof damage across a property.
The velocity of hail, combined with the angle at which it strikes, also influences the severity of roof damage. Hail carried by strong winds strikes harder and at sharper angles, which increases the likelihood of shingle cracks, granule loss, or punctures. Roofs with less slope are especially vulnerable, since hailstones are more likely to hit with full force.
Not all roofs respond to hail the same way. Asphalt shingles are more susceptible to losing protective granules, exposing the mat beneath and shortening the roof’s lifespan. Metal roofs tend to withstand hail well but can still be dented. Clay and concrete tiles are highly durable, but large, dense hail can cause them to crack or break.
The age and condition of your roof also play a major role. A well-maintained, newer roof is better equipped to handle hail impacts than one that is old, brittle, or already in disrepair.
At M&A Exterior Home Improvement in Norfolk, VA, we know how destructive hail can be to your roof and your peace of mind. Our roofing experts specialize in inspections, repairs, and replacements to keep your home protected. If your roof has recently endured a hailstorm, prompt inspection is key to preventing leaks and costly damage.
Call us today at 757-779-5244 or fill out our online form to schedule your free roof inspection. Serving homeowners across Norfolk, VA, we provide trusted solutions to keep your roof strong, secure, and ready for any storm.