The Factors That Cause Hail Damage

1. Wind Damage. The speed, intensity, and direction of the wind during a hail storm can vary greatly, which can affect the severity and location of the hailstones.

2. Size of the Hailstones. The size of individual hailstones will impact the degree of damage, and keep in mind that hailstones can be as small as a pea or as large as your softball, or anything in between.

3. Density and Shape of the Hailstones. Some hailstones can be denser than others, depending on the atmospheric conditions in which they are formed. They also tend to not have smooth edges, which affects the level of destruction that can cause damage to your roof, your siding, gutters, and other aspects of your property.

4. Type of Building Materials Used. Every type of building material will absorb and respond the impact of hailstones differently; for instance, hail can crack vinyl siding and cedar wood shake roofing, or cause dings or dents in asphalt shingles, gutters, or aluminum siding.

   Particularly large hailstones can even be strong and dense enough to puncture a roof, particularly if it is older or weaker – the age and condition of the roof will affect the degree of damage that a hailstorm may cause.

5. Physical Barriers to the Hail. From natural barriers like tree cover or other landscaping to neighboring structures like fences, adjacent buildings, or other structures, the barriers located around your property and the roof may protect against the impact from a hail storm.