FAQ on Roof Repair & Replacement After Hail & Wind

Does hail always result in roof damage?

• Not all hail causes roof damage. In general, hail must be the size of a half-dollar to cause damage to a roof made of composite shingles and wood shake shingles. Although quarter-sized hail can impact a lightweight composite shingled roof, damage is usually associated with hail accompanied by strong winds. When a roof sustains damage from dime-sized hail, the roof likely was in poor repair prior to the hailstorm, states the Nebraska Department of Insurance.

How do I know if my roof sustained hail damage?

• Hail that is large enough to damage a roof is also likely to cause damage to vehicles, wood decks and fencing and shutters. If you notice dimples and dents in these objects, it is likely your roof has incurred some hail damage as well. Shingle granules in your gutter downspouts or along the ground around your home can also indicate roof damage. Contact a roofing contractor, your insurance company or both to inspect your roof if you suspect it has been damaged.

What kind of damage does hail do to a roof?

• Hail can cause shingles to lose their granules (mineral coating). The material around their edges can loosen. Shingles can also become dented and fall off. All of these imperfections can result in moisture getting behind the shingle and causing a leaky roof. In extreme cases, hail can puncture a hole in the roof.

How do I know when to repair or replace a roof damaged from hail?

• For most homeowners, roof damage from mild or moderate hailstorms is largely superficial. Although the roof has dents and shingles may have lost some of their granules, the roof is sound overall. Roofing contractors usually recommend homeowners repair damaged segments rather than replace the entire roof even when more significant damage exists, such as a hole. Consider replacing the roof when repairs are estimated to cost more than 80 percent of the cost to replace the roof, states RCI. When repair costs exceed 80 percent of replacement costs, it no longer makes good financial sense to proceed with repairs.