North Texas is gearing up for all that comes with the spring season. Crisp mornings, warm afternoons, sunshine, and unfortunately, severe weather and hail storms.

Even if we are well-aware of the chance of a severe storm before it happens, sometimes storm damage is inevitable. Although hail is more often than not small and non-destructive, a few times a year in Texas, we’ll receive a strong hail storm that can cause some severe property damage. And while most people take the necessary precautions for their cars, plants, and other visible assets, a crucial consideration that is often overlooked is the damage that hail can do to your roof.

Whether the forecast says pea-sized or golf ball-sized, it’s important to know what size hail can damage your roof. Here are some tips for recognizing the various hail sizes and the risk they pose to the roof over your head.

Quarter-inch hail: Pea-sized

The most common type of hail is small and causes very little damage to anything. It doesn’t last for long, and there usually isn’t much to worry about even when it does. 

There are exceptions, of course, and any roof that is in disrepair can experience further damage from even the smallest of hail.

Although pea-sized hail is usually nothing to worry about, if you haven’t taken proper care of your roof, it may be a good idea to get it checked out by an expert after any stormy conditions. 

Half-inch hail: Marble-sized

These ice marbles are a little bigger and can cause more damage than the pea-size. Stronger winds are usually the differentiating factor for hail size, and when the size increases, it’s usually in conjunction with stronger winds.

As a result, this relatively small hailstone can still cause damage, especially if your roof isn’t in the best shape. 

Three-quarter to 1-inch hail: Dimes and Quarters

As hail grows in circumference, it gets heavier, falls harder and becomes more dangerous. When hail is this size, it can do significant damage in even the shortest periods.

 If your area is ever affected by hailstones this size, there will likely be some damage to your roof. This is usually in the form of dents and cracks on your shingles, but it can be worse depending on the amount of time it falls for and the condition of your roof. 

It is strongly advisable to get an expert in after a storm with this type of hail-fall so that you can avoid the damage getting any worse, and more expensive.

Three quarters of an inch and Bigger: Golf balls and Baseballs

When it comes to severe hail like this, it’s guaranteed that you will have moderate to severe roof damage. It might not happen often, but when it does, you need to get your roof inspected immediately to assess the damage.

It’s also a good idea to get your insurance company on the phone and find out more about your coverage options for repairs, if needed.

As with most things in life, when it comes to your roof, taking precautions can save you a whole lot of trouble and money in the long run. The first thing you should do is find out the current state of your roof by booking an inspection with roofing experts. 

When the hail does come, be sure to give your roofing experts a call to assess any potential damage. Stay safe out there, Texas!
Looking for a reliable roofing expert in north Texas? Contact UPI Roofing to get a consultation.