Why Hail Roof Damage Is a Growing Concern for Homeowners
Hailstorms may not seem like a top concern for California homeowners, but recent climate shifts are changing the narrative. While states like Texas and Colorado are known hail hotspots, Northern California is now seeing more frequent hail events—bringing hail damage, high winds, and heavy rain to areas once considered low risk.
In 2025, U.S. property owners experienced over $10 billion in hail-related losses. A significant portion of that came from roof damage from hail, with asphalt shingles, wood shingles, and metal roofing among the most commonly affected systems. Even storms with pea sized hail can cause enough impact to loosen granules, crack shingles, or dent gutters and flashing.
When hail hits, it doesn’t always leave behind obvious hail damage. Many homeowners don’t notice the signs of a hail damaged roof right away. Over time, minor roof damage can escalate into mold growth, insulation breakdown, and costly repairs—especially when compounded by repeated exposure to UV rays and storms.
Common types of roof damage include:
- Fractured shingles
- Dented metal roof panels
- Water intrusion from weakened seals
- Granule loss that leaves shingles exposed
- Damage to window screens, siding, or gutters
At Cobex Construction Group, we help homeowners identify hail damage early and take preventive steps before small problems become structural threats.
Learn how Cobex helps homeowners with emergency roof repairs in Northern California.
What Does Hail Damage on Your Roof Look Like?
Broken Shingles and Visible Hail Damage
When hail hits, the type and severity of roof damage depends on your roofing material and the size of the hailstones. Here’s how hail damage typically appears across different systems:
- Asphalt shingles: You might notice bruising, dark circular marks, or missing granules. Severe hail impacts can expose the fiberglass mat underneath.
- Wood shingles: Watch for cracks that follow the grain, often with sharp corners, discoloration, or splintering.
- Metal roofing: Metal roof systems may show dents in panels, dimples on flashing, or indentations around roof vents and valleys.
- Tile roofing: Tiles may be chipped or cracked along the edges, especially on older or brittle materials.
Even durable materials like metal roofing can be damaged by heavy rain combined with large or fast-moving hail. And remember—pea sized hail can still displace granules or crack brittle shingles under the right conditions.
If you see signs of a hail damaged roof—or even suspect one—don’t take the risk of walking the roof yourself. Contact a trusted professional for a full evaluation.
Granule Loss and Subtle Signs of Hail Damage
Granule loss may not be dramatic, but it’s one of the earliest and most serious indicators of hail damage. When granules are knocked loose, the underlying layers of the shingle become exposed to UV rays, leading to faster deterioration, leaks, and potential structural decay.
Less obvious signs of roof damage from hail include:
- Loose or damaged shingles
- Displaced granules found in gutters or on patios
- Window screens with tiny punctures or wear
- Spongy or soft spots on the roof deck (only detectable during an inspection)
These early warning signs are critical. Ignoring small issues today can result in costly repairs down the road—especially if roof damage voids your manufacturer’s warranty.
Schedule a free roof inspection with Cobex.
The Real Cost of Repairing Hail Damage on Your Roof in 2025
Asphalt and Composition Shingle Repair Costs
The cost of repairing hail damage in 2025 depends on several factors: hail size, the type of roofing material, and how widespread the roof damage is. Repairs may include sealing exposed areas, replacing shingles, or installing new flashing and underlayment.
Estimated costs:
- Minor repairs (a few damaged shingles or isolated areas): $700–$1,500
- Moderate repairs (partial reroofing or sealing exposed areas): $1,500–$5,000
- Extensive damage requiring full replacement: $20,000–$35,000+, especially for homes with tile or metal roofing
Asphalt shingles and composition shingles are generally more budget-friendly to replace than tile or metal, but they’re also more prone to granule loss, surface bruising, and cracking from hail impacts.
If your roof is already aging or has existing hail damage, it might be more cost-effective to consider a full replacement instead of repeated patch jobs—especially if the hailstorm caused widespread structural issues.
What Homeowners Need to Know About Insurance for Hail Roof Damage
The good news: most homeowners insurance policies include coverage for hail damage. However, the payout depends on your policy structure:
- Actual Cash Value (ACV): You’ll receive compensation for the roof’s current (depreciated) value.
- Replacement Cost Value (RCV): Your insurer covers the cost of a brand-new roof minus your deductible.
To get the most from your claim:
- Capture photos of all visible hail damage, shingles which broke, and affected areas
- Make note of the size of hail and date the storm occurred
- Contact a licensed roofing contractor like Cobex for a detailed inspection and documentation
- Begin the insurance claims process with your insurance company promptly
We work directly with your insurer to streamline communication, provide estimates, and back all our repairs or roof replacements with manufacturer and workmanship warranties.
What to Do Immediately After a Hailstorm: Protecting Your Roof
First Steps to Take After You Spot Damage on Your Roof
If you’ve recently experienced hail or severe weather:
- Stay safe – Never walk on a potentially damaged roof.
- Check for signs – Look for dented gutters, broken windows, or vinyl siding damage.
- Take photos – Document any roof storm damage, damaged shingles, or debris.
- Call a roofing expert – Don’t wait. A quick inspection can help preserve your warranty and insurance eligibility.
When to Call a Pro for Damaged Shingles or Leaks
If your roof has sustained hail impact, it’s critical to contact a roofing professional within 48–72 hours. This ensures any damage is caught before further issues like water infiltration or mold set in—and helps expedite your homeowners insurance claim process.
Smart Hail Protection for Your Roof: Prevention Strategies
Class 4 Impact-Resistant Asphalt or Composition Shingles
If you’re building a new home or replacing your roof, opt for Class 4 impact-resistant shingles. These high-performance products are engineered to resist hail, high winds, and even debris. They’re a great upgrade from standard shingles or other traditional roofing materials.
Many insurance companies offer premium discounts for homeowners who install Class 4 roofing products.
Schedule Regular Inspections for Better Protection
Annual roof inspections help catch wear and tear, manufacturing defects, and storm damage before they escalate. A proactive maintenance plan with Cobex can extend your roof’s lifespan and give you peace of mind.
Maintain the Roof to Prevent Granule Loss and Other Damage
Small efforts make a big difference:
- Clean gutters and roof vents
- Trim back trees and overhanging branches
- Look for damage to shingles, flashing, or siding after every major storm
Why Professional Inspections Are Important After Hail
DIY vs. Professional Eye
You might be able to spot major damage to your roof, but many issues caused by hail impacts are hidden beneath the surface. A professional roofing contractor will inspect everything—down to the roof deck, underlayment, and seal integrity.
What to Expect From a Cobex Hail Damage Roof Inspection
Cobex offers thorough, free hail damage roof inspections. After a storm, our team will:
- Evaluate all roofing materials and components
- Document signs of hail damage, dented gutters, or damaged shingles
- Provide a detailed damage report for your insurance company
- Recommend next steps: repair, partial replacement, or full replacement to the roof
Request your free Cobex roof inspection.
Choosing the Right Contractor for Hail Roof Damage Repair
What to Look for in a Roofing Contractor
Not all contractors are qualified to handle hail-damaged roofs. Choose a professional roofing contractor with:
- Verified licensing and insurance
- Experience with roof damage and insurance claims
- Knowledge of various roofing materials
- Local credibility and solid reviews
Cobex Construction Group checks all the boxes—and we go the extra mile to keep you informed every step of the way.
Why Cobex Is California’s Ideal Partner
As a trusted roofing contractor in Sacramento, Roseville, Redding, and beyond, Cobex offers:
- Local expertise and fast response
- Transparent pricing and clear communication
- High-quality materials, workmanship, and warranties
- Friendly, knowledgeable service from start to finish
Read our customer reviews.
Asphalt Shingles and Hail Protection
Why Asphalt Shingles Are Popular
Shingles are the most widely used roofing material in California—and for good reason. They’re affordable, easy to install, and come in a range of styles. But when it comes to roof hail damage, they’re also more vulnerable than metal roofing or tile.
Premium shingles, particularly impact-resistant types, offer better protection against shingle damage, hail impacts, and normal wear over time.
How Hail Affects Asphalt and Composition Shingles
After a storm, we often find:
- Granule loss in gutters or around the downspouts
- Soft spots from underlying bruising
- Exposed backing from broken or damaged shingles
Replacing compromised shingles promptly prevents damage from spreading to the roof decking and interior ceilings.
Hail Size Matters: When to Worry About Roof Damage
What Hail Size Can Actually Damage a Roof?
Many homeowners are surprised that relatively small hail can create significant damage. Here’s how the size of the hail relates to roofing risk:
- ¾-inch hail: May damage aged or weakened roofs
- 1-inch hail (quarter-sized): Can cause bruising, granule loss, or no longer worn-out shingles
- 1.5-inch hail (ping pong ball-sized): Often results in fractured shingles and dented metal
- 2 inches or larger: Likely to cause severe damage requiring full roof replacement
What to Do After a Large Hail Storm
If your area experiences hail over 1 inch in diameter, don’t wait. Schedule an inspection, even if you don’t see visible damage. Roof storm damage can take months to manifest as leaks or sagging—and at that point, insurance may no longer cover it.
Cobex provides prompt post-storm assessments and support with insurance claims.
Hail Roof Damage FAQs
What Size Hail Causes Damage to My Roof?
The size of hail is a major factor in determining the extent of roof hail damage. While it may surprise some homeowners, hailstones as small as 1 inch can cause damage to asphalt shingles, especially when combined with high wind speed and erratic wind direction. Larger hail increases the chance of shingles needing to be replaced, granule loss, and even structural deterioration. If you suspect hail damage, schedule a professional inspection—even if there are no immediate visible signs of impact.
How Long After a Hail Storm Can I File an Insurance Claim?
Most insurance companies allow homeowners between 6 and 12 months to file a claim for hail damage. However, we always recommend filing sooner rather than later—especially if your roof experienced significant damage. Delays can complicate the insurance claims process, particularly if further deterioration occurs due to postponed repairs.
Can Hail Damage Void My Roofing Warranty?
Yes. If you do not identify hail damage promptly or professionally, it can void manufacturer warranties on roofing materials. Most warranties require that roof damage from hail be identified and documented quickly. Regular inspections by a licensed roofing professional are the best way to ensure your warranty stays intact and that you receive proper support if issues arise.
Should I Replace My Roof If I Have Broken or Cracked Shingles?
It depends on the severity of the hail damage. If you have only a few cracked, a repair may be sufficient. However, if your roof is older, already showing signs of wear, or has experienced extensive damage from hail, a full roof replacement might be the safer, more cost-effective solution. Replacement costs can vary greatly based on local labor rates, roofing materials, and the slope or size of your roof.
How Often Should I Inspect My Roof in Hail-Prone Areas?
We recommend having your roof professionally inspected at least once per year—and always after any storm involving hail or high winds. Regular checkups help catch small issues before they escalate into damage to your roof that leads to water intrusion or costly structural repairs. An annual inspection also ensures continued hail protection and gives you peace of mind that your home is protected.
Get Peace of Mind With Cobex Construction Group
Hail storms are unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. From identifying hail damage to necessary roof repairs to helping with insurance claims, Cobex is your local partner in protecting what matters most—your home.
We offer expert inspections, durable repairs, and full roof replacements backed by industry-leading warranties. Whether your roof has minor hail damage or needs a full upgrade, Cobex Construction Group is here to help.
Schedule your free roof inspection today and let us help you weather every storm.
