Is Hail Strong Enough to Damage a Metal Roof?

Like rain, the sound of falling hail can be relaxing. But as you watch the small pieces of ice bounce off your metal roof, you have to wonder: are they strong enough to damage my roof? Metal roofs are one of the most long-lasting and durable options for homeowners. They’re made to withstand extreme weather conditions, but does that include hail and powerful hailstorms? Keep reading to find out if hail is strong enough to damage your metal roof. 

Are Metal Roofs Hail Proof?

Metal roofs aren’t 100% hail-proof, but they are highly resistant to hail damage. In general, metal is known for being one of the most durable types of roofing materials. Metal roofs—shingles or standing seams—are ideal for areas with high winds, but even with their extreme durability, they can still get damaged. 

Metal roofs are susceptible to two types of damage from hail storms: denting and puncturing.

Denting

One of the many benefits of metal roofing is that it’s durable; however, it’s prone to denting. Denting is the most common damage to a metal roof. Hail storms can cause these small, hollow marks on your roof’s surface because of the pressure of falling hail. Denting is a largely cosmetic issue and is sometimes joined by scratches to the material. These damages won’t affect the structural integrity of your roof, but they will make it a lot less aesthetically pleasing. 

Puncturing

It’s a lot less likely for hail to puncture a metal roof, but it’s not impossible. In the right—or very wrong and unlucky—conditions, hail can pierce a hole through a metal roof. This is more likely if the metal has a thinner gauge, but still, it’s extremely uncommon.

A punctured roof is substantial damage that could lead to even further issues. A hole in your roof can cause leaks and potential water damage. And water damage is one of many household issues you want to get ahead of. The average cost of water damage restoration is $3,780, but depending on the extent of the damage, it can reach $6,000 or more.

What Factors Affect Hail Damage on Metal Roofs

Hail damage on metal roofs is uncommon and often superficial, but several factors affect how much damage it can do.

Strength of the Storm

We’ve said it before, and we’ll likely say it again—metal roofs are durable. But like most things, their strength is no match for Mother Nature. The strength of a hail storm affects how much damage it can do to a metal roof. It’s a combination of factors that includes wind speed and the size of the hail. Hail can range from the size of a pea to a grapefruit, but on average, they’ll be about the size of a penny.

Most manufacturers test for hail during roofing development. However, in extreme weather areas, no amount of testing can match up to a spontaneous and severe hail storm.

Metal Thickness

The thickness of your metal roof also affects its potential for hail damage. If your roof is thinner, it’s more vulnerable. The recommended thickness for a metal roof is 24 to 26-gauge panels. It’s suitable for most residential areas, but a local professional roofing contractor can give you a more accurate estimate for your specific location.

Slope of Roof

If your car has ever been damaged by hail, you’ll notice that most of the damage is usually on the flatter surfaces—the hood, roof, and trunk (if it’s flat). Although it’s possible, you’re less likely to see damage on the doors. That’s because hail has more force when it directly impacts a surface. When hail impacts a roof with a more extreme slant or slope, there’s less impact and less potential for damage. 

How to Prevent Hail Damage to Your Metal Roof

It’s challenging—practically impossible—to protect your roof against hail damage. Instead, your goal should be to protect your roof from general damage and wear and tear. And the best way to prevent damage to your roof is through proper installation and maintenance.

Some homeowners may think that all a DIY roof installation requires is time, patience, and the right tools. While these are necessary, installing a roof isn’t a DIY project homeowners should tackle. It requires the skills and experience of a professional. Instead, you should hire a licensed roofing contractor to guarantee the longevity and durability of your roof.

One of the most common roofing concerns for homeowners is leaks. A poorly installed roof is vulnerable to leaks which can snowball into gaps, damage, and deterioration from environmental exposure. Alternatively, routine maintenance can keep your metal roof from reaching that point. 

Clean and inspect your roof at the start of every season. Roof maintenance helps keep your home protected and prevent future damage. And in the midst of doing your own seasonal inspections, schedule an annual roof inspection. A professional roof inspector can check for potential problems and make any necessary repairs.

How to Fix Metal Roofs from Hail Damage

The average cost to repair a roof is $1,128, and you may be hoping to save a few bucks with a DIY project. While you could keep a few extra dollars in your pocket, the best way to fix your hail-damaged metal roof is to hire a professional and let them take care of it. 

A DIY project to fix dents can be simple. Some homeowners tackle the problem by using a heat gun—a hairdryer works too—to heat the dented area and gently tapping the dent from underneath with a rubber mallet. However, there are many variables to consider, like what if you heat the metal too much or hit the metal too hard.

And in the unlikely chance that hail damage causes holes in your roof, the job becomes more extensive. It requires the know-how of using sandpaper, cutting metal, and creating and reinforcing watertight seals. While you may be willing to gain the knowledge and skills to try the repair yourself, nothing beats the skill and experience of a professional. DIY repairs may save you money; however, hiring a hail damage repair service gives you more security and peace of mind in the quality and structural integrity of your roof.