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How Hail Forms and Why It Damages Roofs So Severely

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

How Hail Forms

Hail starts inside thunderstorm clouds, where powerful updrafts lift water droplets into freezing temperatures. Those droplets freeze into small ice pellets. As the pellets are tossed around by the storm's winds, they collide with supercooled water, which freezes onto them in layers. Each trip through the cloud adds another coat of ice, building the stone larger and larger.

Eventually the hailstone becomes too heavy for the updraft to hold it up. Gravity pulls it down, and it falls to the ground at speeds that can exceed 100 miles per hour. The size of the stone depends on how strong the updraft is and how long the hail stays in the cloud. Larger stones mean more force when they hit your roof.

Why Hail Hits So Hard

The damage comes from both the weight and the speed of the falling hail. A golf-ball-sized stone weighs about an ounce and a half, but it hits with the force of a heavy punch. When it strikes asphalt shingles, the impact can crack them or knock off the protective granules that keep water out. On metal roofs, hail can dent the surface, creating weak spots where rust may form later.

Hail doesn't always strike straight down either. Wind can drive it at an angle, which can pry up the edges of shingles or loosen flashing. That sideways force can do even more damage than a straight fall. The result is often a roof that looks intact from the ground but has hidden punctures and tears that let water seep into your home.

  • Cracked or missing shingles after a storm
  • Dents in metal roofs or gutters
  • Granules from asphalt shingles scattered in the yard
  • Loose or lifted flashing around vents and chimneys
  • Water stains on ceilings or walls after rain
  • Sagging or soft spots in the roof deck

What Hail Damage Does to Your Home

Once hail breaks the roof's surface, water can follow the path of least resistance into your attic and walls. Even a small puncture can let a surprising amount of rain through during a heavy storm. The water soaks into insulation, drywall, and wood framing, where it can sit for days before you notice. That hidden moisture can lead to rot and mold if it isn't dried quickly.

How to Check for Hail Damage

After a hailstorm, start with a visual check from the ground. Look for missing or broken shingles, dented gutters, and piles of granules near downspouts. If you have a one-story home, you can use binoculars to get a closer look at the roof surface. For a two-story house, consider staying on the ground and letting a pro with a ladder handle the inspection.

Inside your home, check the attic for any signs of water. Look for dark spots on the underside of the roof deck, wet insulation, or stains on the walls and ceiling. If you find any, mark the spot and take a photo. That can help you describe the issue to a water damage pro later. Also, check your insurance policy to see what it says about hail damage, since policies vary.

What to Do After Hail Hits

If you suspect hail damage, the first step is to prevent more water from getting in. You can place a bucket under a leak or use a tarp to cover a damaged section of roof, if it's safe to do so. But don't climb onto a steep or wet roof. The pros have the right safety equipment and experience to handle that.

Next, call a local water damage pro to do a thorough inspection. They can identify all the damage, including areas you can't see from the ground. They can also help with drying out any wet materials to prevent mold. If you live in Burnsville, keep the number of a reliable pro handy before the next storm season. The cost of a repair depends on the extent of the damage, the type of roof, and the materials needed, so it's hard to estimate without a look.

  • Document the damage with photos and notes
  • Place buckets under active leaks to protect floors
  • Keep children and pets away from damaged areas
  • Avoid walking on a wet or damaged roof
  • Check your gutters and downspouts for blockages
  • Contact a pro for a full inspection and drying plan

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Frequently asked questions

How can I tell if my roof has hail damage?

Look for missing or cracked shingles, dents in metal parts, and granules in the yard. Inside, check the attic for water stains or wet spots. If you see any, contact a pro for a closer look.

Will my insurance cover hail damage?

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Many homeowners policies cover hail damage, but you need to review your specific plan. Check your policy or ask your agent about your coverage.

How soon should I get hail damage repaired?

Act quickly to prevent water from soaking into your home. Even a small leak can cause mold and rot if left alone. A pro can help dry things out and fix the roof, but the longer you wait, the more damage can happen.

Call Now (952) 522-6744