A Homeowner’s Guide to What Kind of Hail Will Cause Damage

A calm blue sky can quickly turn into a loud, violent hailstorm—one that sounds like rocks are pelting your home. And in many cases, that’s exactly what’s happening.

While some hailstones melt away without consequence, others can destroy shingles, dent flashing, and even punch holes in your roof. The challenge? You don’t always see the damage right away. Small cracks or granule loss might not cause leaks for months—but when they do, the repair bill is much higher than it needed to be. Hail can cause both functional and cosmetic damage to your roof, and even cosmetic damage—like dents or bruises that seem superficial—can lead to bigger problems such as leaks or structural issues if left unaddressed.

In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about hail damage, including:

• What sizes of hail damage different roof types
• How to identify hail damage on your roof
• Common myths about hail and roofs
• How regional climates (like in New Mexico and Utah) make roofs more vulnerable
• What to do after a hailstorm
• How Reimagine Roofing offers free inspections and quotes in less than 24 hours

1. How Hail Forms—and Why It’s So Dangerous to Roofs

Before we get into sizes and materials, let’s understand how hail forms. Hailstones develop inside thunderstorms when updrafts of cold air freeze raindrops into solid balls of ice. The stronger the storm’s updraft, the bigger the hailstones.

Hail growth occurs within thunderstorms when strong updrafts carry raindrops into the upper atmosphere, where they freeze and accumulate layers of ice. These strong updrafts and the conditions in the upper atmosphere are crucial for the enlargement of hailstones.

These ice balls are launched into your roof at speeds up to 100+ mph, depending on wind. That kind of impact force can bruise, crack, or completely destroy roofing materials—especially if your roof is older or already weakened.

2. What Size Hail Can Damage a Roof?

Here’s a general guide to hailstone sizes and their potential impact:

Hail Size	Common Comparison	Damage Potential
< 0.5”	Pea-sized	Rarely causes damage
0.5–0.75”	Mothball/marble	Minor damage to old shingles
1.0”	Quarter	Can damage asphalt, dent soft metals
1.25”	Half-dollar	Moderate roof and gutter damage
1.5”–2.0”	Walnut–Egg	Severe shingle, flashing, and skylight damage
2.5”+	Tennis ball and up	Major roof failure, cracked tiles, broken vents

💡 Did you know? Even quarter-sized hail (1.0”) can cause serious roof damage, especially to 3-tab shingles or low-quality installations.

Hailstones measuring 1 inch or larger are considered the threshold for significant roof damage. While smaller hailstones may cause less obvious or only minor damage, larger hailstones are much more likely to result in severe roof problems and extensive property damage.

3. Which Roof Types Are Most Vulnerable to Hail?

Not all roofing materials perform the same in hailstorms. The vulnerability to hail damage depends greatly on the roof type and its materials. Here’s how common residential roof types hold up:

🟠 3-Tab Asphalt Shingles

Vulnerability: HIGH

Thin and inexpensive, these shingles are easily damaged by 1” hail. While 3-tab asphalt shingles contain a fiberglass mat that provides some strength, their thinness still makes them vulnerable to cracks, granule loss, and bruising.

🟡 Architectural Asphalt Shingles

Vulnerability: MODERATE

Heavier and layered, these offer better hail resistance than 3-tabs but can still be bruised or dented by 1.25″ or larger hail.

🟢 Metal Roofing

Vulnerability: LOW

Metal roofs can withstand hail better, especially steel and aluminum. However, hail can still cause cosmetic dents, which might affect resale value.

🟠 Wood Shakes/Shingles

Vulnerability: HIGH

Hail splits wood easily, especially if it’s dry or poorly maintained. Even small hail can shatter aging shakes.

🟢 Clay or Concrete Tiles

Vulnerability: MODERATE-LOW

These are highly durable, but large hail (2” or more) can crack or shatter tiles. Broken pieces may not cause leaks immediately but weaken the system.

🔴 Flat Roofs (Membrane)

Vulnerability: HIGH

Flat roofs often use TPO or EPDM rubber membranes, which can be punctured by sharp hail or weakened by ponding water.

4. How Roof Design Influences Hail Damage

📐 Roof Pitch and Slope: Steep vs. Low Slope

The angle and slope of your roof play a major role in how it stands up to hail storms. Steep roofs are generally better at deflecting hailstones, allowing them to bounce off rather than strike with full force. This means that hail is less likely to cause dents or cracks on a steeply pitched roof. However, when strong winds drive hail horizontally, even steep roofs can take a beating, as hailstones hit the surface at higher speeds and odd angles.

On the other hand, low slope and flat roofs are more exposed during a hail storm. Hailstones land directly on these surfaces, increasing the risk of punctures, bruising, and granule loss—especially if the roofing material is already aging. Flat roofs, in particular, can suffer from pooling water after a storm, which may worsen any damage caused by hail. If you have a low slope or flat roof, it’s wise to consult a roofing contractor to assess your roof’s vulnerability and discuss options for hail damage prevention and roof repairs.

🏠 Overhangs, Valleys, and Architectural Features

Architectural features like overhangs, valleys, and unique roof shapes can also influence how your roof weathers a hail storm. For example, a Dutch gable roof or a traditional gable roof with multiple valleys can create spots where hailstones collect and concentrate, increasing the risk of localized hail damage. Valleys are natural collection points for both hail and water, which can accelerate wear and tear on roofing materials in those areas.

Overhangs may offer some protection to the walls and windows below, but they can also create drip lines where water and hail accumulate, potentially leading to water damage or ice dams. If your home features complex roof designs, it’s important to have a roofing professional inspect these areas for hidden vulnerabilities after a storm. Proactive repairs or modifications can help minimize the risk of hail damage and extend the life of your roof.

🧱 Eaves, Ridges, and Vulnerable Edges

The edges of your roof—such as eaves, ridges, and corners—are often the first places to show signs of hail damage. These areas are more exposed to wind-driven hail and can be especially vulnerable if the roofing materials are thin or aging. For instance, wood shingles are particularly susceptible to cracking or splitting at the edges, while asphalt shingles may lose granules or develop cracks along the eaves and ridges.

In hail-prone regions like hail alley, choosing quality roofing materials and ensuring proper installation is essential. Asphalt shingles, when installed with attention to detail, can offer better protection against hail storms. Regular inspections and maintenance—especially after severe weather—can help detect hail damage early and prevent small issues from turning into costly repairs. Whether your home has a gable roof, hip roof, shed roof, or another common roof design, understanding how roof design affects hail vulnerability is key to protecting your investment.

By working with a knowledgeable roofing contractor and focusing on quality workmanship, you can ensure your roof is ready to withstand even the most damaging hailstorms. The right roof design, combined with regular care, makes all the difference when it comes to weathering the next big storm.

4. Regional Focus: Hail Damage in New Mexico & Utah

🌪️ New Mexico: Hail in the High Desert

While NM is known for heat and arid weather, hail is common in the spring and summer, especially in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Roswell.

• Hail often comes with high winds and dust
• Metal and tile roofs are more popular for durability
• Older asphalt roofs (15+ years) often show hidden damage after hail

🏔️ Utah: High Altitude, High Risk

Places like Salt Lake City, Provo, and Ogden see frequent hail due to elevation and storm activity.

• Hail here is often 1″ or larger
• Ice damming in winter makes damaged roofs worse
• Many homes with older shingles are unprepared for spring storms

Note: Hail damage in these regions may not leak immediately—but will reduce lifespan and increase risk over time.

👉 Reimagine Roofing serves both NM & UT with free post-storm inspections + quotes in under 24 hours.
Book your inspection now →

5. How to Tell If Hail Has Damaged Your Roof

Some signs are obvious—others hide in plain sight. Heavy rain often accompanies hailstorms, which can make it harder to spot damage immediately. Here’s what to look for after a hailstorm:

• Dents or bruises on your roof shingles
• Cracked or broken windows
• Dents in gutters or downspouts
• Damage to outdoor furniture or vehicles
• Cracks or dents in vinyl siding, as it is also susceptible to hail damage

🚩 Obvious Signs:

• Dented metal flashing, vents, or gutters
• Cracked or missing shingles
• Shingle granules piling in gutters or downspouts
• Exposed roof underlayment
• Skylights or windows with cracks

🕵️‍♂️ Subtle Signs:

• Discoloration or bruising on shingles
• Black circular spots on the roof
• Soft areas on the roof surface (shingle bruising)
• Water spots in attic or ceilings weeks after storm

💡 Pro Tip: Not all hail damage causes immediate leaks. That’s why inspections are crucial—even if you don’t see anything wrong from the ground.

6. What Happens If Hail Damage Goes Unnoticed?

Hail damage can start small—but leads to big problems over time:

• Water infiltration from cracked shingles or torn membranes
• Mold growth in attics and insulation
• Rotted wood decking under the roof
• Weakened structural integrity
• Insurance claim denial if damage isn’t reported promptly

By the time you notice a ceiling stain, the damage has likely been developing for weeks or months. That’s why you should act fast.

7. Myths About Hail and Roofs (Debunked)

Let’s clear up a few common misconceptions:

❌ “If I Don’t See Leaks, I Don’t Have Damage”

Reality: Many leaks don’t show up until months later. Early damage is often hidden beneath the surface.

❌ “Only Big Hail Causes Damage”

Reality: Even 1” hail can damage aging or low-quality shingles.

❌ “Insurance Won’t Cover Hail Damage”

Reality: Most homeowner policies cover hail—but only if you report it quickly.

❌ “Metal Roofs Never Get Damaged”

Reality: They resist leaks well but can dent, affecting resale or aesthetics.

8. What to Do After a Hailstorm

1. Inspect the Area Safely
   Check your yard for hailstones, damaged vents, or dented gutters. Remember, people caught outside during hailstorms can be seriously injured, so always make safety your top priority.
2. Document Everything
   Take photos of hailstones, any visible damage, and timestamps. If possible, record the wind direction, as it can help explain the pattern of damage.
3. Schedule a Free Roof Inspection
   Reimagine Roofing can assess the damage thoroughly—and it won’t cost you a dime.
4. File an Insurance Claim (If Needed)
   Our team helps guide you through the insurance process if hail damage is confirmed.

👉 Schedule a no-cost inspection today →

9. Preventing Future Hail Damage

While you can’t stop hail, you can reduce the risk of costly damage:

Upgrade Roofing Materials:
If your roof is old or has been damaged multiple times, consider upgrading to impact-resistant shingles or metal roofing. These materials are designed to withstand hail better than standard asphalt shingles. When installing a new roof, it’s important to choose the right roof design and materials, especially in hail-prone areas, to maximize protection for your house.

Choose the Right Roof Design:
Selecting the best roof design is crucial for protecting your house from hail damage. The most common roof designs include gable roofs, hip roofs, traditional hip roofs, gambrel roofs, mansard roofs, and shed roofs. Gable roofs and gambrel roofs, both featuring two slopes on each side, can be more vulnerable to hail impact depending on their pitch and orientation. Hip roofs and traditional hip roofs, with four sloping sides meeting at a peak, often provide better resistance to wind and hail due to their aerodynamic shape. Mansard roofs, known for their dual slopes and increased attic space, and shed roofs, with a single sloping surface, each offer unique advantages and considerations for different houses and climates. Consulting a roofing professional can help homeowners determine which common roof designs are best suited for their specific house and local weather conditions.

✅ Upgrade Roofing Materials

Install impact-resistant Class 4 shingles or metal roofs rated for hail zones.

✅ Regular Roof Maintenance

Clean gutters, check flashing, and replace worn shingles regularly.

✅ Get Post-Storm Inspections

Even small storms can create vulnerabilities. Stay ahead of issues.

✅ Work With a Trusted Roofing Partner

Like Reimagine Roofing—we offer fast, honest service with no pressure.

10. Why Homeowners Trust Reimagine Roofing

We’ve helped thousands of homeowners protect their homes from storm damage in New Mexico, Utah, and beyond. Here’s why:

• ✅ Free roof inspections after hailstorms
• ✅ Quotes within 24 hours
• ✅ Local teams who understand regional climate risks
• ✅ Insurance claim guidance
• ✅ High-quality materials and installation
• ✅ Friendly, no-pressure experts

Know Your Roof. Beat the Storm.

Not all hail will damage your roof—but when it does, the effects can be serious, expensive, and long-lasting. Understanding what kind of hail is dangerous, and how your roofing material holds up, helps you make smarter decisions.

If your area just got hit—or if you’re worried about damage from a past storm—don’t wait.

👉 Get your free hail damage inspection today
📞 Call Reimagine Roofing at (480) 900-7663
🌐 Explore more resources at www.reimagineroofing.com

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense. Let us make sure it’s ready for the next storm.