What Size of Hail Damages a Roof?

Damage from hail stones is a big concern for homeowners in Phoenix, especially when storms unleash large debris. The impact of hail can be devastating, causing severe structural damage to your roof and other parts of your home. But what hail size is considered dangerous that it will cause severe roof damage?

Understanding what hail size can cause the most damage is important for protecting your home. Different sizes of hail can result in varying degrees of destruction. By being aware of the specific hail sizes, you can take proactive measures to safeguard your investment and avoid costly repairs in the future.

Can Pea-Sized Hail Damage a Roof?

Pea-sized hail, typically about 0.25 inches (0.6 cm) in diameter, is generally not large enough to cause damage to most roofs or even window screens. Roofs can withstand a certain amount of impact and environmental stress, and small hailstones usually lack the mass and velocity needed to compromise roofing materials. 

However, the potential for damage from even small hailstones can vary based on several factors:

• Roofs that are aged or have existing wear and tear may be more susceptible to minor damage.
• Roofs made from less durable materials might experience more impact from pea-sized hail.
• Minor damage can include granule loss on asphalt shingles.
• Repeated exposure to pea-sized hail over time can lead to cumulative damage.

While pea-sized hail rarely poses a serious threat to the structural integrity of the entire roof, homeowners should still inspect it after a hailstorm to ensure there are no developing issues.

What Size of Hail Can Damage Roofs?

Hail can cause severe damage to roofs, but the damage will depend on the hailstone size, the roofing material type, the roof’s age and condition, and the storm’s intensity, duration, and wind speed. Generally, hailstones that are 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter (about the size of a quarter) or larger are enough to damage most roofing materials.

• Marble to quarter-sized hail (0.5 to 1 Inch/1.2 to 2.5 cm) can damage older or compromised roofs. The impact may result in granule loss from asphalt shingles, which reduces the roof’s effectiveness at shedding water and protecting the underlying materials.
• Golf ball-sized hail (1.75 inches/ 4.4 cm) and larger can cause more serious damage, such as splatter marks or dents on metal roofs, cracks or broken shingles, and damaged vents, flashing, and shingles.

How Weather Conditions Can Affect a Hail Storm’s Destructive Properties

It’s important to understand how different weather conditions influence a hailstorm’s ability to cause damage. By examining the key atmospheric factors that contribute to hailstorm development, we can gain insights into their potential destructiveness. Below are the primary weather conditions that affect the severity of a hailstorm:

• Temperature Profile of the Atmosphere. The temperature throughout the atmospheric column greatly affects hail formation. A warm surface with cold air aloft promotes the strong updrafts needed for hail development. The freezing level and lapse rates (temperature decrease with altitude) determine how large hailstones can grow before falling.
• Updraft Strength. Strong winds and updrafts are vital for carrying hailstones upward, allowing them to grow larger as they accumulate layers of ice. The more powerful the updraft, the larger the potential hailstones; hence, the more destructive the storm might be.
• Humidity and Moisture Levels. High humidity provides the moisture needed for cloud formation and hailstone growth. The more moisture available, the more layers can be added to developing hailstones, potentially increasing their size and mass.
• Wind Shear. Wind shear relates to changing wind speed and direction with height. It can enhance the rotation and organization of thunderstorms, leading to more sustained and potent storm systems capable of producing larger and more destructive hail.
• Storm Duration. Longer-lasting storms provide more time for hailstones to grow as they cycle through updrafts within the storm. This increases the likelihood of producing large, damaging hail.
• Storm Intensity and Thunderstorm Type. Supercell thunderstorms, often driven by severe wind shear and substantial atmospheric instability, are typically more likely to produce larger and more destructive hailstones than typical thunderstorms.
• Frontal Interactions. Frontal boundaries (e.g., cold fronts) can enhance atmospheric instability, increase lift, and generate more intense thunderstorms, raising the potential for destructive hail.
• Cloud Base Elevation. A lower cloud base with a high freezing level can create hail that takes more time to melt or shrink before reaching the ground, potentially reducing its destructiveness.
• Barometric Pressure Systems. Low-pressure systems typically correlate with increased atmospheric instability and greater thunderstorm activity, leading to increased chances of hail formation.
• Proximity to Atmospheric Disturbances. Areas near jet streams or other upper-atmospheric disturbances may experience enhanced convection and updrafts that are favorable for producing significant hail.

What Issues to Expect When Hail Damages Each Roof Type

When a severe hailstorm occurs in Phoenix, Arizona, different roof types may experience specific issues. It’s good to know the signs of hail damage for each roofing type, as it can make the repairs faster and more efficient. Some examples of damage that may happen on each roofing type include:

Asphalt Shingles

• Granule Loss. Hail can knock granules off the shingles, which protects the underlying asphalt from UV rays. Granule loss can lead to faster aging and potential leaks.
• Bruising. Hail impacts can leave soft spots or bruises in the shingle, weakening its integrity.
• Cracking. Larger hailstones can crack shingles and expose the substrate, leading to potential water ingress.
• Mats Exposed. Excessive damage can expose the fiberglass mat, making it vulnerable to further damage.

Metal Roofs

• Denting. Hail can leave dents on metal panels, which, although usually not compromising structural integrity, can be unsightly.
• Paint Chipping. The protective paint layer may chip away, which can cause potential rust and degradation over time.
• Seam and Fastener Damage. The force of hail can loosen fasteners or seams, which can lead to leaks.

Tile Roofs (Concrete or Clay)

• Cracking or Shattering. Hailstones can crack or even shatter the tiles, which can cause water penetration if not repaired.
• Surface Damage. The surface glaze may be damaged from large hail sizes, increasing water absorption and weakening over time.
• Broken Edges. Impact along the roof edges can chip tiles and create further structural risks.

Slate Roofs

• Chipping. Edges of slate tiles can chip, compromising their effectiveness and leaving gaps.
• Cracking. Severe impact can cause cracks or even breakage of slate tiles, leading to water infiltration.
• Delamination. Layers of slate can separate and weaken the tile and its effectiveness.

Wood Shingles and Shakes

• Splitting and Cracking. Hail can split or crack wooden shingles and shakes, creating gaps where water can enter.
• Dent and Puncture. Heavy impacts create dents or puncture the wood, making the roof susceptible to leaks.
• Surface Damage. Deformation of the wood surface can lead to water ponding and further damage.

Flat Roofs (TPO, EPDM, and BUR)

• Membrane Puncturing. Hail can puncture the roof membranes and potentially cause leaks afterward.
• Blistering. Impacts may cause blisters or bubbles in the membrane surfaces.
• Gravel Displacement (BUR). BUR can lose gravel surfacing, exposing the underlying layers and increasing vulnerability.
• Drainage Impairment. Debris and deformation can impede proper water drainage, exacerbating pooling issues.

Different Ways to Prevent Hail Storms From Damaging Roofs

Even if you already have old roofing, there are still ways you can do to stop hail storms from further roof damage. By implementing these damage prevention methods, you save a ton of money on extensive roofing repairs and replacements. These are some of the most well-known preventive methods:

• Install Impact-Resistant Roofing Materials. Choose roofing materials specifically built to withstand hail, such as Class 4 impact-resistant shingles. These materials are tested and rated for hail impact and can better withstand the force of hailstones, reducing the likelihood of damage.
• Regular Maintenance and Inspection. Conduct professional roof inspections to find and repair any damage or wear that can make the roof more vulnerable to hail. This includes checking for loose roof shingles, damaged flashing, and other potential weak points.
• Install Roof Hail Guards and Protective Barriers. Use protective systems like hail guards or mesh coverings on vulnerable areas like skylights, vents, and HVAC units. These barriers absorb some of the impact of hail and reduce damage to structural or mechanical components.
• Roof Strengthening and Reinforcement. Strengthen roof structures by adding additional support or layers to absorb and distribute hail impact. This can involve reinforcing the decking or using thicker underlayment to give an extra layer of protection.
• Install Gutter Guards. Protect gutters with guards to stop them from getting clogged with hail debris. Unprotected gutters can overflow and lead to water damage in other parts of the house.
• Trim Surrounding Trees. Regularly trim trees and remove overhanging branches near the roof. Hailstorms can sometimes break branches, causing them to fall and damage the roof.
• Proper Roof Slope Design. Design or choose a roof with an appropriate slope to facilitate optimal water runoff and reduce the impact force of hailstones. Steeper slopes can help hailstones slide off more easily.
• Secure Roof Components. Make sure that all roof components, such as antennas, satellite dishes, and solar panels, are securely fastened. Properly secured components are less likely to be damaged or become projectiles during a storm.
• Upgrade Your Soft Metal Roof. Consider upgrading to a metal roof, which is more resistant to hail damage than other materials and can often withstand larger hailstones without suffering significant harm.
• Weather Monitoring and Alerts. Utilize weather monitoring systems and alerts to prepare for incoming storms in Phoenix. Take preemptive measures to reduce potential damage, like closing storm shutters or reinforcing vulnerable areas.

Several Ways to Determine the Size of Hailstones

Determining the size of hailstones before a storm arrives can be challenging. However, there are a few ways you can do to predict the potential size of incoming hailstones based on weather forecasts, observations, and available data. 

Weather Radar and Storm Tracking

Meteorologists use Doppler radar systems to track and analyze storm cells. By observing the storm’s characteristics, such as its rotation, intensity, and height, they can estimate the likelihood and potential size of hailstones. Radar data can indicate the presence of strong updrafts and high-altitude freezing zones conducive to hail formation. Weather channels and apps can also provide real-time radar imagery to gauge potential hail threats.

Weather Forecasts and Alerts

Pay attention to National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts and severe thunderstorm warnings, sometimes including details about expected hail sizes. Meteorologists issue these alerts based on data analysis and modeling, warning residents of possible severe weather, including hail. For example, if a forecast predicts baseball-sized hail, it’s a strong indication that the storm has the potential to produce large hailstones.

Cloud Observations and Visual Cues

Thunderclouds with specific visual markers, like a towering cumulonimbus structure or an overshooting top, may suggest severe weather capable of producing large hail. Observing cloud formation, size, and structure can give clues about the intensity of an approaching storm. However, visual observation alone is less reliable and should be supplemented with other data sources.

Severe Weather History and Climatology

Understanding the climatology of hail in Phoenix can also help anticipate hail size. Historical data reflects patterns and frequency of hail occurrences, which can inform predictions of potential hail size during similar weather conditions. Areas frequently impacted by large hailstones may have a higher likelihood of experiencing similar events.

Community Reports and Local Observations

Local weather stations, storm chasers, and citizen reports around Phoenix, Arizona, provide real-time information on current storm conditions and observed hail sizes. These on-the-ground observations can offer immediate insights into incoming hail potential.

Does Phoenix, Arizona Insurance Cover Hail Storm Damage?

Standard homeowners insurance policies typically cover hail storm damage in Phoenix, Arizona, as in many other parts of the United States. However, there are nuances and specifics that homeowners should be aware of to ensure they have adequate protection.

Standard Homeowners Insurance Coverage

• Dwelling Coverage. This part of a homeowners insurance policy generally covers damage to the home’s structure caused by hail. This includes the roof, siding, windows, and other structural components. For instance, if a hailstorm causes grave damage, the policy would likely cover roof replacement or repair costs.
• Personal Property Coverage. This coverage may provide compensation if hail damages personal belongings inside the home, such as electronics or furniture. Coverage limits for personal property can vary, so policyholders should review their coverage limits and assess whether additional protection is needed for high-value items.
• Additional Structures. Detached structures like garages, sheds, and fences on the property are usually covered under a standard policy in the event of hail damage, but only up to a certain limit.
• Loss of Use/Additional Living Expenses. If the insurance adjuster deems the home uninhabitable due to hail damage, this coverage can help pay for temporary accommodations and other living expenses during the repair period.

Policy Specifics and Exclusions

• Deductibles. An insurance company’s policies often have specific deductibles for wind and hail damage, which can be a flat amount or a percentage of the home’s insured value. Homeowners need to understand their deductible amounts to accurately estimate their out-of-pocket costs in the event of an insurance claim.
• Exclusions. While hail damage is generally covered, components such as wear and tear or lack of maintenance may not be. For example, suppose a roof was already in poor condition before a hailstorm. In that case, the insurer may deny a claim or reduce the payout, arguing that the damage was exacerbated by lack of maintenance.
• Roof Coverage. Some policies may offer actual cash value for roof damage, while others provide replacement cost coverage, which does not consider depreciation. Homeowners should verify their coverage type to understand potential claim settlements.

Regional Considerations

In regions like Phoenix, an insurance company may offer optional coverage riders or endorsements specifically for hail and wind damage, which can offer more comprehensive protection. Conversely, insurance companies may impose higher premiums or deductibles in high-risk hail or wind areas.

Don’t Let Hail Damage Ruin Your Home’s Peace—Hire Stonecreek Roofing for Reliable Phoenix Roofing Solutions!

When hail stones damage your roofing system, don’t leave it unattended for too long—hire the expertise of Stonecreek Roofing today! You can count on our years of experience servicing different types of roofs around Phoenix, Arizona. Trust in our work because of our GAF Certification. As a professional roofing contractor, we also offer roof warranties to clients, keeping their investments protected for many years.

Call us at once so we can start protecting your home with quality roofing services.