What Size Hail Will Damage a Roof? A Homeowner's Guide for Austin, TX

Wind, Roof Age, and Slope: Key Damage Factors

Hail size isn’t the only factor to consider. Three more variables play a big role:

• Wind Speed: Strong winds drive hail with more force, causing deeper impacts, especially on roof edges. Gusty conditions can shift the trajectory of hailstones, resulting in uneven damage across different parts of the roof.
• Roof Slope: Flatter roofs are more vulnerable to hail because they receive more direct hits. Steeper pitches tend to deflect hailstones, reducing impact severity—but not eliminating it.
• Material Age: Roofs naturally degrade over time. Aging shingles may lose their protective granules and become brittle, making them much more susceptible to damage even from smaller hailstones.

Other Considerations:

• Roofing Layers: If your roof has multiple layers of shingles, the top layer may show different damage patterns than the underlying ones.
• Installation Quality: Poorly installed roofing systems are more likely to sustain heavy damage, as fasteners may fail or flashing may lift under impact.

Pro Tip: Even if your neighbor’s roof looks fine, yours might have taken more damage depending on slope, age, and material type. Always get a professional inspection to be sure.

What Does Hail Damage Look Like on a Roof?

“See what hail damage looks like on a roof” is one of the most common homeowner questions we hear. Here’s what to look for:

Asphalt Shingle Damage:

• Dark spots where granules are missing

• Bruising you can feel when pressing the shingle

• Exposed fiberglass or cracks

• Creased or curled shingles from wind-lift

Metal Roof Damage:

• Circular dents or dings

• Scratches or chipped paint

• Warping or loose panels in severe cases

Tile Roof Damage:

• Broken or shifted tiles

• Cracks along the edges

• Dislodged mortar caps or flashing

Austin, TX: A High-Risk Zone for Hail

Austin is no stranger to hail. The region experiences frequent hail events, especially in spring and early summer. What makes Austin unique?

• Variable Weather: Storms range from small pea-sized hail to destructive tennis-ball-sized chunks.

• Roofing Variety: Homes in Austin feature a mix of materials, each responding differently to hail.

• Urban vs. Suburban Impact: Densely populated neighborhoods may be better protected by surrounding structures and tree cover, while open areas see higher impact.

• Frequent Storm Paths: Many hail-producing storms move directly through Travis and Williamson Counties multiple times per year.

If your zip code is in Travis or Williamson County, you’re statistically at risk.

Post-Hailstorm Inspection Checklist

If you suspect hail hit your neighborhood, follow this simple checklist:

Exterior:

• Look for dents on gutters, downspouts, and AC units
• Check siding and windows for cracks or marks

Roof (Visual Only – Stay Safe!):

• Use binoculars to scan for missing shingles or tile breaks
• Look for dark spots or shiny marks on shingles

Interior:

• Inspect ceilings for leaks or water stains

Insurance Claims Guide: What to Do First

1. Document Everything: Take photos of damage on your roof and around your property.
2. Contact a Contractor: Get an inspection from a certified roofing specialist before calling your insurer.
3. File Promptly: Insurance providers in Texas typically require filing within a year, but sooner is better.
4. Get Multiple Estimates: Use this to negotiate and ensure full coverage.

Helpful Tip: Many insurers require a contractor’s report before approving your claim.

Call Austin’s Trusted Hail Damage Experts

Your roof is your first line of defense. If you suspect damage or want peace of mind, contact the leading hail damage roofing contractors in Austin for a free inspection.

Don’t wait until leaks start – book your FREE roof inspection today.

FAQs About Hail Damage on Roofs