The Homeowner’s Guide to Hail in Colorado

1. Introduction: Hail Damage in Colorado

Colorado ranks second in the U.S. for hail-related insurance claims, with more than $1 billion in damages reported annually.

With some of the most extreme hail storms and severe storms in the country, our homes take a beating year after year. Roofs are especially vulnerable, and all it takes is one storm to leave costly damage that is hard to spot, and even harder to fix if ignored.

How can you best prepare for these hailstorms so they don’t cause thousands in damage?

Well, we’re going to show you how to stay one step ahead of those nasty hailstorms in this guide.

Facts about hailstorms

In just 2023, Denver experienced approximately 191 hail storm reports, which is how Colorado gets its name “Hail Alley”. 

The average insurance payout for hail damage to homes in Colorado was approximately $17,000 and the average auto insurance claim for hail damages was around $5,000.

On May 8, 2017, the Denver metro area experienced an extreme hailstorm that produced baseball-sized hailstones with widespread destruction totaling to about $2.3 billion in damages. 

These storms are no joke in Colorado and it’s impossible for you to make it through unscathed. That’s why it’s important to be prepared and know how to act once a storm strikes.

Hailstorms and Season

Hailstorms can occur at any time of the year, but they are most common during the spring and summer months. In Colorado, for example, the hail season typically runs from April 15 to September 15, with the highest frequency of hail events occurring in June. During this time, it’s essential to be vigilant and take steps to protect your property from hail damage. This can include monitoring weather forecasts, securing outdoor furniture and decorations, and ensuring that your roof is in good condition.

Key Takeaways: 

• Hail can cause serious damage to all types of roofing, especially asphalt shingles and metal tiles.
• Impact-resistant roofing materials, regular inspections, and simple home upgrades can significantly reduce damage.
• After a hailstorm, document damage, contact your insurance provider, and schedule a professional roof inspection.
• Always work with a licensed roofing contractor who makes you comfortable.
• A few preventative steps today can save you thousands in repairs tomorrow.

What is Hail Damage?

Hail damage refers to the damage caused by hailstorms to properties, including roofs, cars, and other structures. Hail can cause dents, cracks, and holes in roofing materials, leading to roof leaks and other issues. In severe cases, hail damage can be so extensive that it requires a complete roof replacement. As a homeowner, it’s essential to be aware of the signs of hail damage, including dents, dented gutters, and downspouts, and to take steps to repair or replace damaged areas promptly.

2. Understanding Hail Damage 

With high elevations and a fast-moving storm system, conditions are perfect for hail to form quickly and hit hard.

The state’s official hail season runs from mid-April through mid-September, with its peak hitting in May and June. Storms can roll in fast, sometimes with little warning.

What makes hail so destructive is the speed and size it can reach. Some stones come down as small as peas, while others are as big as golf balls. And when they hit your roof at over 50 mph, even a few minutes of hail can lead to cracks, dents, and long-term structural issues. High winds, along with severe hail, contribute to extensive damage in both rural and urban areas.

A lot of the damage isn’t just what you can see right after a storm. The real problem is hidden damages that can lead to leaks, mold, and costly repairs down the line.

Types of Hail And The Damage They Cause

Hail, or white gold as it’s known in the roofing industry, comes in different sizes. The size of the hail will also impact the speed at which it falls.

• Smaller-sized hail up to 1” in diameter and falls between 10-25 mph.
• Severe Hail 1” – 2” in diameter falls between 25-40 mph.
• Larger Hail 2” – 4” in diameter and falls between 44-72 mph.

Home damage usually starts at the 1” mark, and with wind, your siding and windows can also become casualties. Severe weather events, particularly hailstorms, can lead to visible property damage, including broken windows, alongside other forms of damage like cracked shingles and dented siding. A hail-damaged roof can have significant implications for homeowners’ insurance policies, affecting the type of coverage and the financial outcome for repairs, especially when considering Actual Cash Value versus Replacement Cost Value.

3. How Hail Affects Roofs 

Not all roofs handle hail the same way. The type of roofing material you have plays a major role in how much damage a storm leaves behind and how soon you might notice it.

Hail can strike your home at speeds over 50 miles per hour, and even small hailstones can cause serious wear over time. The damage isn’t always obvious, but when left unaddressed, it can lead to bigger problems down the road. A lot of the damage isn’t just what you can see right after a storm. Insurance companies use hail maps to track when and where hailstorms occur, which helps determine if a home was affected and the timeline for filing claims.

It’s also important to inspect other roof penetrations like vents and gutters, as hail damage can affect these areas as well.

Here’s how hail affects the most common types of roofing, so you can see what it looks like for your roof:

Asphalt Shingles 

Asphalt shingles are one of the most widely used roofing materials in Colorado. While they are mostly durable, they’re also vulnerable to hail impacts. You might see:

• Granule loss (which exposes the asphalt layer to the elements)
• Bruising or dark spots where hailstones hit
• Cracks or lifted shingles that may not be visible from the ground

It is crucial to have any damage repaired promptly to prevent further issues.

Metal Roofs 

Metal roofs hold up well structurally, but they can still take a beating in a hailstorm. Common issues include:

• Dents or dimpling, especially in softer metals like aluminum
• Scratches that compromise protective coatings
• Cosmetic damage that may reduce resale value (even if the roof still functions properly)

By understanding the financial impact and prevalence of hail damage, homeowners can take proactive steps to protect their properties and minimize potential losses. It is crucial to file insurance claims promptly after a storm to ensure coverage for repairs and mitigate out-of-pocket expenses. Ensuring that a well-repaired roof provides adequate protection against future hailstorms is essential to safeguard the home and its interior from potential damage.

Tile Roofs

Clay or concrete tiles are known for their durability, but they’re not immune to hail. The biggest risk here is:

• Cracked or broken tiles that allow water to seep underneath
• Dislodged pieces that expose the underlayment

Cracks can be hard to spot without a close inspection, and replacing individual tiles can get pricey if the damage is widespread. Determining whether your roof has sustained hail damage is crucial for deciding if you need to file an insurance claim.

Impact Resistant Shingles (IR) 

One of the best defenses against hail damage is upgrading to impact-resistant shingles. These are specifically designed to withstand the force of hailstones and reduce the likelihood of cracking, denting, or granule loss. 

IR shingles are rated using a class system from 1 to 4, with class 4 being the most durable. 

Benefits of IR Shingles: 

• Greater resistance to cracking and bruising
• Longer roof lifespan in hail-prone areas
• May qualify for insurance discounts depending on your provider
• Available in a variety of styles and materials, so you don’t have to sacrifice your street appeal.

Each type of roofing has its own weak spots, and it’s worth knowing what to look for because catching damage early is always cheaper than dealing with it later.

4. Preventive Measures To Protect Your Roof from Hail Damage

Unfortunately, you can’t control the weather (It would be a pretty nice ability, though), but you can control how prepared your home is when the next hailstorm rolls through.

Taking preventive steps now can help you save thousands of dollars in repairs later. Whether you’re building a new home or maintaining an older one, here are some ways to strengthen your roof against hail:

1. Install Impact-Resistant Roofing

If you’re replacing your roof or planning ahead already, look for Class 4 impact-resistant materials, which are tested to withstand hail without cracking or breaking. These materials are available in asphalt shingles, metal panels, and tiles.

A bonus here is that many insurance companies offer discounts for homes with impact-resistant roofing.

2. Schedule Regular Roof Inspections

Inspect your roof twice a year, especially before and after hail season to catch issues before they turn into serious damage. Having access to specific areas like the attic can help identify problems early.

A good inspection checks for:

• Worn or loose materials
• Signs of previous hail impact
• Vulnerable flashing or seals

The damage isn’t always obvious, but when left unaddressed, it can lead to bigger problems down the road. It is essential to check roof penetrations like chimneys and skylights for potential damage, as these areas require proper sealing to prevent water intrusion.

3. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters can make the storm damage worse. When water backs up, it can seep under shingles or pool in areas that aren’t designed to handle it. Keeping gutters clean for proper draining and protecting your roof’s edge.

4. Trim Nearby Tree Branches

During a storm, overhanging branches can break and slam into your roof, damaging it. Trim back any limbs that hang over or near your home to reduce that risk.

5. Reinforce Roof Features

Make sure vents, skylights, and chimneys are sealed properly and protected with covers where needed.

A few proactive steps can greatly increase your roof’s durability (and your peace of mind) for when the next storm hits. Because let’s face it, in Colorado, it’s going to be sooner rather than later.

5. Additional Ways To Protect Your Property 

Your roof isn’t the only part of your home that takes a beating during a hailstorm. Windows, siding, and your car are all vulnerable when the hail starts falling. Here are a few more ways to minimize the damage.

Hail can cause significant damage to various parts of your house, including the roof, siding, and other exterior areas.

A few proactive steps can greatly increase your roof’s durability (and your peace of mind) for when the next storm hits. Additionally, ensure that any contractors you hire for roofing repairs have liability insurance coverage. This protects you against potential accidents or injuries that may occur during the repair process, safeguarding your property and financial liability.

Reinforce Siding and Gutters

Siding and gutters often take direct hits during storms, especially when it’s windy. To reduce the chance of damage:

• Choose fiber cement if you’re going to be replacing materials
• Regularly inspect and maintain gutters to make sure they’re securely fastened
• Install gutter guards to prevent debris buildup and improve drainage

Protect Your Windows and Skylights

Windows are one of the most fragile parts of your home during a storm (obviously). To reduce the risk of shattering:

• Install shutters or storm panels on vulnerable windows
• Use hail-resistant window film to strengthen glass
• When a store is forecast, cover windows with plywood for a quick defense

Securing Other Items

Anything left in the yard can become a projectile or get damaged. Keep these things in mind:

• Cover AC and HVAC systems with hail guards or protective edges
• Move vehicles into a garage or carport when possible

Taking 5 minutes to bring things in can save you a lot of money in replacement costs

The more you can reinforce the “weak spots,” the less likely you are to deal with expensive damages down the road.

6. What to Do After A Hailstorm 

Sometimes, hailstorms will last only 2 minutes. But sometimes that’s all it takes for damages to happen. Hail damage can be subtle at first but costly over time if left unaddressed. Understanding how hail damages your roof is crucial for timely repairs and insurance claims.

Here’s what to do to stay ahead:

1. Check for Visible Damage

Walk around your property and look for immediate signs of damage:

The first thing you can do is see how large the hailstones are. Look for the largest stone, and that will indicate the hail sizes. If the stone is wider than the ball of your thumb, there is a pretty good chance your home has sustained roofing damage.

Other indicators are:

• Are your automobile’s windows intact?
• Is the body of the car dented? If so, how big?
• Has the siding been damaged?
• Are the windows damaged?

All these indicators don’t require you to go on your roof either. But if you have class 4 asphalt shingles, tile roofing, or metal roofing, then it’s unlikely your roof was impacted unless you found hailstones bigger than 2” in diameter.

2. Take photos of everything

Document all visible damage right away. This will be valuable evidence if you need to file an insurance claim.

3. Contact your insurance provider

Call your insurance company as soon as possible to:

• Report the damage
• Start the claims process
• Get instructions on the next steps, such as choosing an adjuster or contractor

Some insurers have time limits for hail claims, so keep that in mind.

4. Meet your adjustor and walk through your home

This will be a visual inspection of the damage to your home. Take this opportunity to walk the perimeter of your home to note hail-related damages and make sure the adjustor sees it all.

5. Review your paperwork

Your insurance paperwork will be broken down into sections, and in each section, you will see line items for what needs to be replaced. These line items will also show what the insurance company is paying for and why.

This is important because ultimately the contractor is going to do the work on what the insurance company pays out, plus your deductible and any upgrades you select.

6. Meet with Contractors

At this point, you’ve probably had contractors come up to your door offering their services. It’s good to hear all of their offers and go with the one you feel most comfortable with.

More on this in the next section. It is crucial to hire a reliable and experienced roofing contractor to assess and repair hail damage. A professional contractor can determine the extent of the damage, recommend necessary repairs, and ensure that the work meets insurance requirements.

7. Insurance and Claims

If your property has been damaged in a hailstorm, it’s essential to contact your insurance company as soon as possible to file a claim. Your insurance company will send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine the extent of the repairs needed. In some cases, the damage may be so severe that it requires a complete roof replacement. 

As a homeowner, it’s crucial to understand your insurance policy and what is covered in the event of hail damage. This can include the cost of repairs, replacement materials, and liability insurance to protect against injuries or further damage. By understanding your insurance policy and taking steps to protect your property, you can minimize the risks associated with hail damage and ensure that your property is safe and secure.

8. Choosing The Right Contractor 

Before you jump into hiring someone, just know that not all roofing contractors are created equally.

After a major storm has passed, “storm chasers” come by and offer their services. They travel around chasing storms and offering their services to replace roofs fast. But they tend to disappear even faster, leaving you in a jam if there are still problems that need to be addressed.

Insurance policies, such as Actual Cash Value and Replacement Cost Value, determine the amount the insurer will pay to homeowners for roof repairs or replacements after a hailstorm.

Here are some things to consider when choosing a contractor:

1. Prioritize Local, Licensed Professionals

• Choose a contractor based in Colorado, ideally with roots in your city or county
• Local companies are more familiar with regional building codes and weather risks.
• They understand the impacts of severe weather events and can better prepare your property against such occurrences.
• They’re more likely to stand behind their work and honor warranties.

2. Check for Licensing, Insurance & Certifications

Ask to see:

• State or local licensing for roofing work
• General liability and workers’ compensation insurance
• Manufacturer certifications (e.g., CertainTeed, GAF), which indicate training and product expertise

If a contractor hesitates to show documentation, consider it a possible red flag.

3. Get a Detailed Written Estimate

Make sure the estimate includes:

• Scope of work (Materials, labor, timelines)
• Breakdown of costs
• Warranty information
• Cleanup and disposal plans

Avoid vague “handshake” agreements, everything should be in writing.

4. Be Wary of High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Every salesman wants you to sign the minute they show up at your door. Ask them to wait while you get other estimates, reputable contractors will be happy to accommodate this.

5. Read Reviews and Ask for References

• Look for consistent positive feedback across platforms (Google, BBB, Yelp)
• Ask for photos of recent projects or references from nearby customers

Bonus: Look for contractors who’ve worked directly with insurance companies before.

Something else to look out for is if they offer to “comp your deductible,” they are committing fraud. And if you agree and they are caught, you are just as liable as them.

These are just great starting points when it comes to hiring the right contractor. It’s advised that you do your own due diligence and hire the contractor you are most comfortable with.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts 

In Colorado, hail isn’t a matter of if; it’s a matter of when. And while you can’t control the weather, you can control how ready you are for when it does happen. 

So that when the next storm hits, you’re prepared and don’t have to sacrifice your future plans and dreams. 

By understanding how hail affects your roof, taking steps to protect your property, and knowing what to do after a storm, you’re already ahead of the curve. The key is to be proactive, not reactive.

Whether it’s scheduling a roof inspection, upgrading your materials, or simply trimming back a few tree branches, every small action now can save you big in the long run.