What Kind of Hail Causes Roof Damage?

There’s no avoiding it: hailstones of any size can cause damage to a roof, depending on its overall condition and the speed with which the hailstone strikes it. Hailstorms can hasten the destruction of your roofing system.

As a result of the impact, hailstones can damage your roof, causing gaps that allow water to easily access the system. However, because hailstones come in a variety of sizes, which one should be the most concerned about?

Here’s a quick rundown of the types of damage different-sized hailstones can do to your roof.

• ¾” Hail – While this is the tiniest hail we record, depending on the wind velocity, it can still be catastrophic. Vinyl siding, window screens, metal fascia and deck paint are all destroyed by large hail. Additionally, it wreaks havoc on asphalt shingles, gutters, and downspouts. Due to its diminutive size, hail less than one inch in diameter sometimes passes unnoticed.

• 1” Hail – After one inch of hail, the shingle underlayment is bruised, and the siding, gutters and fascia are seriously damaged. Wind speeds have an effect on the extent of the damage, and roof damage will mimic that caused by smaller hail.

• 1¼” Hail – Hail severity increases by 14%. Hail can wreak havoc on your roofing, turning it into swiss cheese. Even in the absence of wind, this hail will do damage by falling from the sky.

• 1½” Hail – Large hail is capable of causing significant property damage. If you live in an area prone to hailstorms, you must take precautions to safeguard your property.

• 1¾ – 2” Hail – At this size, the hail can pierce softer roof components such as ridge caps or plastic roof vents. When paired with wind, a hail of this size can completely destroy siding, crack windows, and cause damage to the majority of metal fixtures.

• 2” Hail – Anything greater will do significant damage to your property. We are no longer interested in “whether” you have property damage, but in “where.” Hire a roofing contractor with insurance experience immediately following a storm.

Get a Roof Inspection for Hail Damage

Some roof damage is difficult to detect from the ground, so get as near to the roof as possible for a thorough check. We recommend hiring a professional roofer to examine your roof securely and completely. Inspections and estimates are usually free. If you choose to inspect the roof yourself, please observe all safety precautions.

Need help with your roofing? Call Chase Roofing LLC at (757) 260-5756 or (757) 206-1948. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in Yorktown, VA, and the surrounding communities.