Colorado is the #1 state for hail damage in the US. Learn how to identify hail damage, understand your insurance coverage, and protect your home with this comprehensive guide.
Understanding what size hail causes roof damage
| Hail Size | Expected Damage | Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Pea (0.25") | Minimal - Usually no damage | Rarely covered |
| Marble (0.5") | Minor - May affect older shingles | Case by case |
| Dime (0.75") | Moderate - Possible granule loss | Often covered |
| Quarter (1") | Significant - Likely damage | Typically covered |
| Golf Ball (1.75") | Severe - Almost certain damage | Always covered |
| Tennis Ball (2.5") | Extreme - Major structural damage | Full replacement |
| Baseball (2.75") | Catastrophic - Emergency repairs needed | Full replacement |
These are general guidelines. Actual damage depends on hail density, wind speed, roof age, and shingle quality. Even smaller hail with high winds can cause significant damage. Always get a professional inspection after any hailstorm.
6 key indicators that your roof has hail damage
Black spots where protective granules have been knocked off, exposing underlying asphalt
Soft spots that feel spongy when pressed, indicating compromised shingle integrity
Visible splits in shingles, often accompanied by missing pieces
Shiny, reflective areas where granules and asphalt have been removed
Complete shingle loss from severe impact or subsequent wind damage
Dented metal components that may allow water intrusion
Step-by-step inspection guide you can do from the ground
Start your inspection from ground level. Look for dents, dings, or dimples on gutters, downspouts, and gutter screens. Aluminum gutters show hail damage clearly and indicate the storm's severity.
Examine vinyl siding, window frames, and trim for cracks, chips, or impact marks. Check AC units, outdoor furniture, and deck railings. These surfaces often show damage when roofs are affected.
Check where downspouts discharge for piles of shingle granules (looks like coarse sand). Significant granule accumulation after a storm indicates roof damage. Some granule loss is normal, but excessive amounts signal problems.
Using binoculars, inspect metal roof vents, plumbing boots, and flashing for dents. Metal components show hail impact clearly. Damaged vents may need replacement even if shingles seem intact.
Do NOT walk on your roof—it's dangerous and can void insurance claims. A licensed inspector will safely assess the roof, document all damage with photos, and provide a detailed report for insurance purposes.
Photograph all damage from multiple angles with dates. Save weather reports showing hail size and storm timing. This documentation supports your insurance claim and establishes the damage timeline.
Walking on a hail-damaged roof is dangerous—damaged shingles can break underfoot. It can also void your insurance claim if the insurer claims you caused additional damage. Always hire a licensed professional for roof inspections.
The best protection against Colorado's severe hail. Class 4 shingles are tested to withstand 2-inch steel ball impacts and can reduce your insurance premiums by 10-30%.
Highest impact rating available for residential roofing
Most Colorado insurers offer 10-30% premium reductions
Typically 50+ year warranties with impact protection
SBS-modified asphalt for flexibility in extreme temps
Popular choice with StainGuard Plus technology
SBS-modified with patented SureNail technology
Premium look with Class 4 protection
Polymer-modified with NEX technology
What you need to know about filing and maximizing your claim
We've helped 312+ Colorado homeowners get their hail damage claims approved. Free inspection, documentation, and adjuster meeting assistance.
"We had golf-ball sized hail hit our neighborhood. Best Roof And Gutter found damage I never would have noticed—dents in our vents and granule loss across the entire roof. They handled everything with our insurance and we got a brand new Class 4 roof. The whole process was seamless."
Get a free professional inspection within 24-48 hours. We document all damage and help you through the insurance process at no upfront cost.