Understanding Hail Damage on Asphalt Shingles: Impacts by Size

Hail can vary widely in size, from as small as a pea to as large as a softball. Each size can impact your asphalt shingle roof differently. HomeSouth Roofing is your expert guide on how different hail sizes affect your roof and what you can do to mitigate these effects.

How Different Sizes of Hail Affect Asphalt Shingles

1. Pea-Sized Hail (¼ inch) Impact: Generally causes minimal damage to asphalt shingles. This small hail may not break shingles or dislodge many granules. Regular inspections are still recommended to check for any subtle damages.
2. Marble-Sized Hail (½ inch to 1 inch) Impact: Starts to show visible damage such as small indentations and minor granule loss. These damages can reduce the shingles’ effectiveness against UV rays and increase weathering over time.
3. Golf Ball-Sized Hail (1½ inches) Impact: Can cause significant damage, including dents and deeper indentations. At this size, hail can start to break shingles and expose the underlying layers to the elements, which may require partial or full roof repairs.
4. Tennis Ball-Sized Hail (2½ inches) Impact: Causes severe damage such as large breaks, heavy granule loss, and potential cracks. The force of impact can also damage the structural integrity of the roof, necessitating immediate professional inspection and likely replacement of affected areas.
5. Baseball-Sized Hail (2¾ to 3 inches) Impact: Almost certainly will puncture the shingles or strip them off entirely. The damage can extend to the roof deck and underlayment, requiring extensive repairs or a complete roof replacement.
6. Softball-Sized Hail (4 inches) Impact: Delivers devastating damage to shingles and the structure beneath. This size of hail can penetrate the roof or cause catastrophic breaks, leading to significant water damage if not addressed promptly.

Why Immediate Inspection is Crucial

After any hail event, it’s important to arrange a professional inspection to assess the hail damage. Even small, seemingly innocuous hail can cause subtle damages that worsen over time. HomeSouth Roofing provides thorough inspections that help homeowners understand the full extent of the damage and the necessary steps for repair.

Preventative Measures and Solutions

Impact-Resistant Shingles: These shingles are designed to withstand hail impacts better than standard shingles, providing an added layer of protection.

Regular Maintenance: Keeping up with regular roof maintenance helps in identifying potential vulnerabilities and mitigating damage from future hail events.

Professional Installation: Ensuring that your roof is installed by certified professionals enhances its resilience to hail and other damaging weather phenomena.

Conclusion

Different sizes of hail can have varying impacts on your asphalt shingle roof, from minor cosmetic damages to significant structural harm. HomeSouth Roofing is committed to providing expert assessment, repair, and preventive solutions to keep your roof in optimal condition. Contact us today to schedule a free inspection and protect your home from the unpredictable nature of hail.