Let’s face it: Colorado weather is anything but boring, especially with the frequent hailstorms. We get sunshine, snow, wind, and, of course, hail—sometimes the size of a grapefruit or, on a rare occasion, a dinner plate, which can lead to severe roof repair needs.
If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if a 6 to 7-inch hailstone landed on your roof, buckle up. It’s not going to be pretty, but at least you’ll be entertained (and maybe a little terrified) as we walk through the science, the damage, and the aftermath—with a side of humor and pop culture references.
The Hailstone That Could: Meet the Mega-Hail
First, let’s get some perspective on the impact of hail on roofs. Most hail that damages roofs is about the size of a quarter or a golf ball—1 to 1.75 inches in diameter.
Insurance companies and roofers know that once hail hits that 1-inch mark, you’re starting to see real damage to your roofing system. But 6 to 7 inches? That’s not just hail. That’s a frozen wrecking ball falling from the sky.
Imagine a hailstone the size of a cantaloupe or a large dinner plate. That’s roughly the diameter of a small pizza or a newborn baby’s head (if you need a visual – Sorry for the memory, Moms… Ouch!), which can lead to significant roof repair. The sheer mass and velocity of something that big is like dropping a bowling ball from an airplane—except it’s made of ice, and it’s coming straight for your roof.
This picture of a recent hailstone, taken by a storm chaser on May 26, illustrates the potential for roof damage. In 2025, near Afton, TX, about 70 miles east of Lubbock. It was about 6 inches across, about the size of a baseball cap!
The Science of Destruction
So, what would happen if a hailstone this size hit your roof? Let’s break it down, Hollywood-style.
1. The Impact: More Than a “Boop”
A 6 to 7-inch hailstone would hit your roof with the force of a meteorite—well, maybe not that strong, but close. Standard asphalt shingles, wood, or even metal roofs aren’t built to withstand that kind of impact.
You’d likely see:
- Gaping holes: The hailstone could punch straight through the shingles or tile, as well as the roof decking.
- Shattered shingles: Asphalt shingles would be obliterated, leaving your roof exposed to potential roof damage.
- Dented or punctured metal: Even metal roofs, which are more resistant to minor hail, would suffer serious dents or even punctures.
- Damaged underlayment and insulation: The force would likely tear through the protective layers beneath your shingles, exposing your home to the elements. Additionally, if it came through your roof decking, it could break the flooring in the house, depending on the strength of your roof deck.
Such force could cause physical harm to humans and animals. So you would have to “take cover.” Go down to your basement, huddle in a bathroom, protect yourself.
2. The Aftermath: Not a Pretty Picture
After the storm, you’d be left with a roof that looks like it’s been through a battle scene from The Avengers. Water would pour in, insulation would be soaked, and your attic would be more of a swimming pool than a storage space.
- Leaks everywhere: Water would find every crack and hole, leading to interior damage.
- Mold and mildew: Moisture trapped in your home can create a perfect environment for mold, especially if your roof has been damaged by hail.
Structural damage from hail can severely compromise the integrity of your roofing system. In extreme cases, the force could even weaken the roof’s structure, making it unsafe.
“But Wait, Does Hail Get That Big?”
You might be thinking, “That sounds like something out of a disaster movie. Does hail get that big?” The answer is rarely, but yes, and when it does, the hailstone size can cause significant damage to the roof. The largest officially recorded hailstone in the United States was about 8 inches in diameter and weighed nearly 2 pounds. It fell in South Dakota in 2010. While Colorado hasn’t seen a hailstone quite that big, we do get our fair share of golf ball and baseball-sized hail, which is already plenty destructive.
Back in August 2018, there was a storm in Colorado Springs that hit the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, injuring 14 people, killing several of the birds at the zoo, and injuring a few others. It was a big hailstorm for Colorado. And some homes suffered significant damage, both inside and outside, near the zoo.
So, while a 6 to 7-inch hailstone is rare in this area, it’s not impossible. And even if we don’t get hit by a hailstone that big, Colorado’s storms are famous for producing hail that’s large enough to cause severe damage, sometimes 2 or 3 inches or more, which is more than big enough to wreck your roof.
What About Insurance and Repairs?
Suppose your roof gets hit by hail, especially hail that big—you’re going to need a new roof—no ifs, ands, or buts. Most insurance policies in Colorado have specific provisions for hail damage. A storm that produces hail of that size would typically result in a total roof replacement.
At Denny’s Roofing, LLC, we’ve seen our fair share of hail damage. We know how to work with insurance companies to ensure you receive the coverage you deserve. We’ll inspect your roof for storm damage, document the damage, and guide you through the claims process so you don’t have to deal with the headache alone.
How to Protect Your Roof (Because You Can’t Control the Weather)
While you can’t stop a hailstone the size of a baseball cap from falling, and it would be a rare occurrence, you can take steps to protect your roof and your home from our standard weather patterns:
- Regular Inspections: Have your roof inspected by a professional at least once a year, especially after major storms or other severe weather events.
- Quality Materials: The right materials are essential to withstand the impact of hail and prevent roof damage. Invest in high-quality roofing materials that are rated for hail resistance to minimize the impact of hail on your roofing system. We offer a complimentary Class 4 Impact Resistant upgrade if you currently have builder-grade shingles, helping to prevent roof hail damage.
- Insurance Check-Up: Make sure your homeowner’s insurance policy covers hail damage and that you understand your deductible.
- Prompt Repairs: If you notice any damage, have it fixed promptly to prevent further problems.
The Denny’s Roofing, LLC Promise
At Denny’s Roofing, LLC, we’re not just roofers—we’re your neighbors. We’ve been serving Colorado communities for years, and we know what it takes to keep your home safe from the most extreme weather conditions. Whether you’re dealing with a bit of hail or a once-in-a-lifetime mega-storm, we’re here to help.
We offer:
- Free inspections and estimates
- Expert hail damage assessments can determine the extent of roof hail damage after a storm.
- Insurance claim assistance
- Quality repairs and replacements
Other Related Questions We Received Related to Full Roof Replacement
Q: What are the immediate effects of a 6-7 inch hailstone on a roof?
A: A 6-7 inch hailstone can cause significant damage to a roof, including dents, cracks, and punctures. The severity of hail damage depends on the type of roof, with asphalt shingles and roof tiles being particularly vulnerable. Metal roofs may suffer from cosmetic damage, while flat roofs can experience punctures or tears.
Q: How does the size of hail affect the extent of roof damage?
A: The size of hail is directly related to the extent of damage it can cause. Large hail, such as 6-7 inch hailstones, is more likely to cause severe damage to roof shingles, roof tiles, and other components of the roofing system. Smaller hail may only result in minor or cosmetic damage.
Q: What are the common signs of hail damage on a roof?
A: Common signs of hail damage on a roof include dents or dimples in roof shingles, cracked or broken tiles, bruising on asphalt shingles, and damage to roof vents and flashing. A roof inspection can help identify these signs early and determine if repair or replacement is necessary.
Q: Can a metal roof withstand large hailstones better than other types of roofs?
A: Metal roofs are generally more durable and resistant to large hailstones compared to asphalt shingles or roof tiles. However, they may still suffer from cosmetic damage, such as dents, which typically do not affect the roof’s performance.
Q: Is it necessary to replace your roof after a hailstorm?
A: Whether you need to replace your roof after a hailstorm depends on the extent of the damage. A professional roof inspection can assess the damage to roof shingles and other components, helping you decide if a repair or a complete replacement is needed.
Q: What type of roof is most susceptible to hail damage?
A: Asphalt shingle roofs are most susceptible to hail damage due to their composition. Roof tiles can also be vulnerable, especially if they are older or already compromised. Metal roofs, while more resistant, can still suffer from cosmetic damage.
Q: How can a roof inspection help after a hailstorm?
A: A roof inspection can identify damage to roof components such as shingles, tiles, and vents. It can also assess the overall condition of the roofing system, helping you decide if damage repair or replacement is necessary. A free roof inspection can provide peace of mind and prevent further property damage.
Q: What does hail damage look like on different types of roofs?
A: Hail damage on roofs can vary depending on the type of roof. On asphalt shingles, it may appear as bruising or missing granules. On roof tiles, you might see cracks or chips. Metal roofs may show dents or dings. Each type of roof will exhibit specific signs of hail damage that require professional assessment.
Q: How quickly should you address hail damage on a roof?
A: It’s essential to address hail damage on a roof as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration and potential leaks. Prompt damage repair can help maintain the integrity of the roofing system and avoid more costly repairs or the need for a new roof.
Q: What are the long-term effects of not repairing hail damage on a roof?
A: Failing to repair hail damage on a roof can lead to long-term issues, including water leaks, mold growth, and structural damage. Over time, the damage can worsen, resulting in more extensive and costly repairs or even necessitating the replacement of the entire roof.
The Bottom Line
A 6 to 7-inch hailstone would turn your roof into Swiss cheese. While it’s rare to see hail that big, Colorado’s storms are no joke. Even minor hail can cause severe damage, so it’s important to stay vigilant and protect your home.
If you’re worried about hail damage—or if you want to make sure your roof is ready for whatever Mother Nature throws at it—give Denny’s Roofing, LLC a call. We’ll ensure your roof is as resilient as Colorado itself.
