How Hail Size Relates to Roof Damage
Hail damage depends on stone size, density, wind speed and the roof material’s age and condition. Lab impact ratings give a useful rule of thumb: standard shingles start to bruise around 1 inch hail, while Class 4 impact-resistant shingles are tested against 2-inch steel balls.
| Hail size | Compared to | Typical roof impact |
|---|---|---|
| ¼″ – ½″ | Pea – marble | Rarely damages roofs; may strip a few granules |
| ¾″ – 1″ | Penny – quarter | Can bruise older or 3-tab shingles; dents soft metal vents |
| 1½″ – 1¾″ | Ping-pong – golf ball | Commonly damages shingles, tile and gutters |
| 2½″ – 2¾″ | Tennis ball – baseball | Cracks shingles and tile, dents metal, can puncture |
| 4″+ | Softball | Severe — punctures, broken decking, skylights |
What to Do After a Hailstorm in Austin
Stay safe
Don’t climb on the roof. Check ceilings and the attic for leaks.
Document
Photograph hailstones next to a coin or ruler, plus dents on gutters, vents, AC units and cars.
Get inspected
Hail bruises are often invisible from the ground. Book a free hail damage inspection.
Call your insurer
Most policies have time limits for reporting damage. Learn how roof insurance claims work.
Watch out for storm chasers. After big Central Texas hail events, out-of-town crews knock on doors. Work with a local company, never sign over your insurance check, and know that in Texas a contractor may not waive or rebate your deductible.
Read our complete guide to insurance coverage for storm-damaged roofs, and consider Class 4 impact-resistant shingles or metal roofing when it’s time to replace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size hail damages a roof?
Around 1 inch (quarter size) is the common threshold for damage to standard asphalt shingles. Older roofs can be damaged by smaller hail; Class 4 shingles resist up to about 2 inches.
Can hail damage be invisible?
Yes. Bruised shingles often look fine from the ground but have cracked mats and lost granules that shorten roof life and lead to leaks later.
How long do I have to file a hail claim in Texas?
Deadlines depend on your policy, and many Texas policies require you to report storm damage within a set period. Check your policy and contact your insurer promptly.
Is hail damage on metal roofs covered?
It depends on your policy. Some Texas policies exclude purely cosmetic dents on metal roofs, while functional damage that lets water in is typically covered.