Do I need a new roof after hail?
Not every hailstorm means a replacement. Hail under about an inch rarely damages a sound roof. Larger stones can bruise asphalt shingles — crushing the mat beneath the granules — which won't leak today but shortens the roof's life. Insurers generally pay for functional damage, so documentation matters.
Next steps if your score is high
- Photograph dents on soft metals (gutters, vents, AC fins) — they show hail size.
- Book a roof-level inspection before calling your carrier.
- File within your policy's reporting deadline.
- Ask about upgrading to a Class 4 roof so the next storm doesn't repeat the cycle.
Read the full guides: hail damage roof replacement and storm damage roof replacement.
