How to Measure Hail Size and Know if Your Burnsville Roof is Actually Damaged
After a hail storm rolls through Burnsville the first thing many homeowners do is step outside to check the size of the ice balls on their lawn. You might be surprised to learn that hail size alone does not tell the whole story. A golf ball sized stone can cause serious granule loss on asphalt shingles while a pea sized stone might leave no visible mark at all. In Minnesota where freeze thaw cycles are brutal even small hail can shorten your roof’s life if it knocks off protective granules. Understanding the relationship between hail size and actual damage helps you decide whether to file an insurance claim or call for a professional inspection. Storm Damage Roof Inspections in Plymouth – What to Look for After a Major Storm.
Minnesota weather data shows Hennepin County and surrounding areas like Burnsville experience an average of three to five significant hail events each year. The National Weather Service classifies hail by comparing it to familiar objects. A pea sized hail is about half an inch in diameter a quarter is one inch a golf ball is one and a half inches and a baseball is two and three quarter inches. Anything larger than one inch is generally considered severe and most insurance adjusters start paying close attention at that size. However the age of your roof the type of shingles and the wind speed during the storm all influence the level of damage.. Read more about How the Minnesota Insurance Matching Law Protects Homeowners in Apple Valley.
When hail strikes an asphalt shingle it can cause granule loss bruising or even puncture the mat underneath. Granule loss might look like shiny or bald spots where the protective coating is stripped away. Bruising shows as a soft spot or indentation that you can feel by pressing gently on the shingle. If you see either of these signs your roof may no longer be able to shed water efficiently which can lead to leaks especially during Minnesota’s freeze thaw cycles. Metal roofs and cedar shakes react differently. Metal may dent but rarely loses functionality and cedar shakes can split or crack depending on the age and moisture content of the wood.
Timing matters in Minnesota. The state’s Department of Commerce gives homeowners six years from the date of loss to file a property insurance claim. If you wait too long the insurance company can deny coverage based on wear and tear. After a storm it is wise to document the hail size with a ruler or coin and take clear photos of any visible damage. Look for collateral damage on softer metals like gutters and downspouts. Dented gutters often mean the hail was large enough to damage your roof even if you do not see obvious shingle harm from the ground.
Minnesota building codes in areas like Burnsville and nearby Apple Valley require ice and water shield in valleys and along eaves to protect against ice damming. If hail damages this underlayment you might not notice until the next winter when melting snow finds its way inside. That is why a professional inspection is critical after any severe hail event. A certified roofer can check for hidden damage that a homeowner might miss and can help you understand whether the cost of repair is worth filing a claim after your deductible. Expert Flat Roof Repair Services for Uptown Businesses and Modern Lofts.
Here is a quick comparison of common hail sizes and their typical effects on a standard three tab asphalt shingle roof in the Minneapolis area.
| Hail Size | Diameter | Typical Damage | Insurance Threshold |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pea | 0.5 in | Minimal granule loss possible | Below threshold |
| Marble | 0.75 in | Slight granule abrasion | Below threshold |
| Quarter | 1 in | Visible granule loss likely | 1 inch minimum |
| Golf Ball | 1.5 in | Bruising and potential cracking | Above threshold |
| Baseball | 2.75 in | Severe punctures possible | Above threshold |
If you are unsure whether your roof sustained damage here are three steps you can take right now. Choosing the Right Cedar Shake Contractor for Your Minnetonka Home.
- Measure a few hailstones with a ruler or compare them to coins. Take photos for your records.
- Walk around your home and check gutters downspouts and window screens for dents. Collateral damage is a strong indicator of roof impact.
- Call a local roofing contractor for a free inspection. In Burnsville and nearby Lakeville many companies offer no cost assessments to help you decide on next steps.
Minnesota weather can be unpredictable but your response does not have to be. By understanding hail size damage patterns and insurance timelines you can make an informed decision that protects your home and your wallet. Do not wait until a small issue becomes a big leak. If you suspect hail damage after the last storm reach out to a trusted local expert today. Trusted Roofing Contractors in St. Louis Park for Shingle Replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon should I inspect my roof after a hail storm?
Ideally within forty eight hours while evidence is fresh. Granule loss and bruising are easier to spot before weathering hides the signs.
Will my insurance cover damage from hail smaller than one inch?
It depends on your policy and the extent of the damage. Some adjusters will approve claims if there is widespread functional harm even from smaller hail.
Can I inspect the roof myself safely?
You can check from the ground with binoculars but walking on a roof after hail is risky. A professional has the safety gear and experience to do it without causing more harm.
What if I see no visible damage but still worry?
Schedule a professional inspection. Hidden damage like cracked underlayment can lead to leaks months later especially during freeze thaw cycles. Roof Inspection.
How long do I have to file a claim in Minnesota?
The state allows up to six years from the date of loss but waiting can make it harder to prove the damage was storm related.
Does hail damage shorten the life of my roof?
Yes. Even if the roof does not leak right away lost granules mean less UV protection and faster aging especially in Minnesota’s intense sun and cold.
Should I replace or repair after hail?
It depends on the percentage of damaged shingles and your long term plans. A contractor can give you a repair versus replace analysis after inspection.
Are metal roofs better against hail?
Metal resists punctures but can dent. Dents are usually cosmetic unless they affect seams or flashing. Asphalt still remains the most common choice in Minnesota for cost and repair ease.
Will a new roof be more resistant to hail?
Newer shingles often have better impact ratings. Look for Class IV impact resistant shingles if you are replacing after a storm.
What should I do if my neighbor’s roof was replaced but mine looks fine?
Every roof is different. Age installation quality and even the direction the hail came from affect damage. Get your own inspection rather than assuming you are unaffected.
Additional Resources
For more information on Minnesota hail patterns visit the National Weather Service Twin Cities page. To understand your insurance rights check the Minnesota Department of Commerce insurance guide.
If you want a professional opinion call Keystone Roofing at (651) 588-9277. We serve Burnsville and nearby communities with free inspections and honest assessments so you can make the right call for your home.
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