When hail hits, it doesn’t always leave a trail of destruction that’s easy to spot. Sometimes it’s obvious: missing shingles, dents in the flashing, water dripping from the ceiling. Other times, it’s more subtle: a few granules knocked loose, a slightly lifted shingle, or a soft spot that doesn’t look like much but spells trouble down the line.
So, what happens next? Do you need a full roof replacement, or can you be good with roof hail damage repair? The answer depends on the severity of the hail damage, the age of your roof, and a few key inspection points that only a professional can properly assess.
Not All Hail Damage Looks the Same
Hailstorms vary in intensity. One storm might bring pea-sized hail that barely scratches your shingles, while another might unload golf ball-sized chunks of ice that break vents and tear through flashing.
Here are a few types of hail damage that homeowners in Colorado’s Front Range commonly experience:
- Granule Loss – Hail knocks off protective granules from asphalt shingles, exposing the layer underneath to sun and water.
- Cracks and Bruising – The impact from hail can weaken the structure of the shingle, even if it’s not visibly torn.
- Shingle Displacement – High winds paired with hail can rip shingles loose or cause them to lift and curl.
- Damage to Gutters and Flashing – Dented or bent components may lead to improper drainage and eventual water intrusion.
Even if the damage isn’t dramatic, it may compromise your roof’s ability to protect your home from future storms.
When Does Hail Damage Warrant a Full Replacement?
A full roof replacement isn’t always necessary, but there are specific scenarios in which it is the smartest option.
1. Widespread Shingle Damage
If more than 25–30% of your shingles show signs of impact or granule loss, a patch job likely won’t cut it. Replacing the whole roof ensures uniform protection and avoids a patchwork look. Installing a new roof isn’t just replacing shingles, it’s ensuring that you have a solid roof system that protects one of your most valued assets.
2. Structural Compromise
Sometimes hail causes deeper damage: splintered decking, cracked underlayment, or weakened fasteners. In these cases, repairs aren’t just insufficient, they’re risky.
3. Your Roof is Nearing the End of Its Life
An older roof may not hold up well to hail damage, even if the issues seem minor. Replacing it now can save you from repeated repair costs in the next storm.
4. Your Insurance Will Cover It
If an inspection finds qualifying damage, your homeowner’s insurance policy may pay for a full replacement. In this situation, holding off may mean missing your window of coverage. At Reliable Roofing, we have a whole team of people dedicated to working with insurance companies to ensure your roof is replaced with quality materials and complies with all city code requirements.
When Can You Get Away with Repairs Instead?
If your roof is newer, and the damage is limited to a few shingles or a small section, repairs may be all you need.
Common Repair-Only Cases:
- A handful of bruised or cracked shingles
- Isolated flashing damage
- Minor leaks caught early
- Cosmetic-only issues (with no penetration or structural risk)
In these cases, a professional roofing contractor can replace specific components and ensure the rest of the roof is sealed and secure.
Just remember: DIY evaluations often miss the warning signs. Even if damage seems “not bad,” a pro should still inspect it to make sure nothing is lurking beneath the surface.
Why Prompt Action Matters
If you’re on the fence about replacing or repairing, the worst thing you can do is wait too long.
- Undetected leaks can cause hidden mold, rot, and insulation damage.
- Insurance deadlines typically limit how long after a storm you can file a claim.
- Weather exposure accelerates damage once your roof’s protective layers are compromised.
That’s why a timely inspection is key, not just to determine the right fix, but to give you peace of mind and a clear path forward.
The Role of Professional Roof Inspections
You need accurate information before making the repair vs. replacement decision. That’s where professional inspections come in.
At Reliable Roofing, our post-storm inspections include:
- A full surface walk-through
- Photographic documentation of hail damage
- Assessment of both visible and hidden damage
- A written report you can submit to your insurance company
- Honest recommendations — no pressure, just facts
We’ll never push you toward replacement unless it’s truly needed. And if it is? We’ll explain why and show you exactly where the damage occurred.
Working with Insurance: What You Need to Know
If you suspect hail damage, your first call should be to a trusted roofing contractor, not your insurance company. Why?
Because your roofer can:
- Confirm whether there’s real storm damage
- Help document everything for your claim
- Be present during the adjuster’s inspection to advocate on your behalf
If a full replacement is warranted, your roofer can provide an estimate and ensure that the scope of work aligns with what your policy will cover. Most insurance policies have strict timelines. Waiting too long could mean paying out of pocket.
Common Questions from Homeowners
Can I wait until I see a leak before acting?
You can — but it’s risky. By the time you see a leak, the damage has already progressed. It’s better (and cheaper) to be proactive.
Will my roof warranty cover hail damage?
Manufacturer warranties generally don’t cover hail. That’s why storm damage falls under your homeowner’s insurance instead.
What if the hail damage is only cosmetic?
Cosmetic damage still reduces your roof’s longevity. If not addressed properly, it may also impact resale value. It’s worth getting checked out.
An Informed Choice for a Protected Home
The bottom line: not every hail-damaged roof needs to be replaced, but every hail-damaged roof should be inspected.
A qualified roofing contractor can tell you whether a repair will do the job, or if a replacement is the safer, longer-term option. And if you do need a new roof? Acting quickly helps you take full advantage of your insurance coverage and avoid further damage.
Reliable Roofing proudly serves Westminster, Broomfield, Arvada, and the entire Colorado Front Range. Our experienced team will inspect your roof, explain your options clearly, and support you through any repairs, replacements and even the insurance company, without high-pressure sales tactics. Call us today or request your free inspection online. We’re here when the storm clears.