Hailstorms are one of the most destructive forces against your home’s exterior especially your roof, which takes the brunt of the impact. These sudden and often severe storms can leave behind significant damage that isn’t always obvious at first glance. Even small hailstones, when driven by strong winds, can bruise or crack shingles, dent flashing, or weaken the roof’s structural integrity over time.
If you’ve recently been through a hailstorm, you might be asking yourself: How much hail damage is enough to replace the roof? This is a common and important question for homeowners, especially in hail-prone states like Louisiana where storm damage is a regular concern.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about hail damage and your roof. You’ll learn how to spot the warning signs, understand the differences between repair and replacement, estimate potential costs, navigate the insurance claim process, and know when it’s time to bring in a trusted roofing contractor.
Whether you’re dealing with your first major storm or want to make sure you’re prepared for the next one, this article will equip you with the knowledge to make confident, informed decisions about your roof.
What Does Hail Damage Look Like on a Roof?
Hail can range in size from small pellets to golf balls or even larger, and the damage it causes depends on your roofing material. On asphalt shingles, hail damage often appears as bruising, granule loss, soft spots, or visible cracks. Metal roofs may show dents or warped panels, while wood shingles can develop splits typically with sharp edges and discoloration, such as an orange or brown hue.
Visual cues may also include dented gutters, damaged siding, or debris on the ground. Use binoculars or a drone for a safe, initial inspection.
Still unsure? Schedule a Free Roof Inspection with our experts.
How to Assess Roof Damage: DIY vs. Professional Inspections
While you can spot obvious signs of hail damage yourself, a professional inspection is crucial. Here’s how both approaches work:
DIY Assessment Tips
- Check for visible shingle bruises or loss of granules
- Inspect metal flashing for dents
- Look in your attic for water stains or leaks
Professional Hail Damage Roof Inspection
- Certified inspectors check for structural and hidden damage
- Use of drones or thermal imaging for precise results
- Detailed report for insurance claim documentation
Book a roofing contractor in Metairie or nearby for a certified inspection.
Roof Repair vs. Replacement: When to Replace After Hail
Determining whether your roof needs repairs or a full replacement depends on several key factors. The extent of damage is a primary consideration if your roof has multiple bruises, torn shingles, or exposed underlayment, a full replacement may be the safest and most cost-effective option. The age of your roof also plays a significant role, as older roofing materials are often more vulnerable to damage and less suitable for patch repairs. Lastly, your insurance company’s assessment can influence the decision; many policies will only cover a full replacement if the hail damage compromises the roof’s ability to protect your home.
See our detailed guide on how much roof replacement costs.
Hail Damaged Roof Replacement Cost
The hail damaged roof replacement cost varies depending on materials, roof size, and labor. Here’s a general breakdown:
| Roof Type | Cost per Sq Ft | Average Replacement Cost (2,000 sq ft home) |
|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Shingles | $3.50 – $5.50 | $7,000 – $11,000 |
| Metal Roof | $6.00 – $12.00 | $12,000 – $24,000 |
| Tile Roof | $7.00 – $15.00 | $14,000 – $30,000 |
Note: These are average U.S. estimates. Costs in Louisiana may vary.
For accurate pricing, explore our storm damage restoration services.
Filing a Roof Insurance Claim for Hail Damage
If your roof was damaged in a recent hailstorm, filing a roof insurance claim can help offset or cover the cost of repairs or replacement. The first step is to schedule a professional hail damage roof inspection to assess the extent of the damage and gather documentation. Once confirmed, you’ll want to contact your insurance provider and file a claim promptly. Most policies have time limits—often within one year of the storm date.
Here’s a general claim timeline:
- Inspection – Book a professional evaluation and collect photo evidence.
- File a claim – Submit damage proof and storm date info to your insurer.
- Adjuster visit – Your insurance company sends someone to inspect the roof.
- Approval or denial – Your claim is either approved (partial or full) or denied.
- Repairs begin – If approved, work can begin with your chosen roofing contractor.
For more help navigating this process, see our guide on roof insurance claim.
Will Insurance Cover a 20-Year-Old Roof After Hail Damage?
Homeowners often ask whether insurance will cover an older roof. The answer depends on the type of policy you have and the condition of the roof before the hailstorm. Some policies offer Actual Cash Value (ACV) coverage, which deducts for depreciation based on the age of the roof meaning a 20-year-old roof might be worth very little under the policy. Others offer Replacement Cost Value (RCV) coverage, which pays the full amount to replace the roof, regardless of age.
However, if the roof was in poor condition before the storm e.g., missing shingles, prior water damage your insurer may reduce or deny coverage. That’s why regular maintenance and documentation are important.
Learn more about what insurance may cover on older roofs in this article: Will insurance cover a 20 year-old roof?
Final Checklist: Should You Replace Your Roof After Hail?
Before making a decision, run through this checklist:
- Can you see shingle bruising, cracks, or granule loss?
- Is your roof more than 10-15 years old?
- Are there leaks or water damage in your attic?
- Has a contractor recommended full replacement?
- Has your insurance provider approved a claim?
If you answered yes to most, it’s time to act.
Book a Free Roof Inspection Today and see if your hail damage qualifies for insurance coverage.
FAQs About Hail Damage and Roof Replacement
How do I know if hail damage is bad enough to replace my roof?
Is roof replacement covered by insurance after hail?
Can I replace just part of the roof after hail damage?
What does hail damage look like on shingles?
For the latest on hail activity in your area, check the NOAA hailstorm reports or use Louisiana Hail Maps.
Stay safe and don’t wait too long after a storm. Lone Wolf Roofing is here to help.
