Hail damage, even when it seems minor, can be costly. Homeowners in "Hail Alley," which includes Nebraska, Colorado, and Wyoming, are especially familiar with the risks, but hailstorms are a concern across many other states as well.
One of the biggest dangers of hail damage is that it often goes unnoticed. A small crack or leak might not seem urgent, but left unchecked can lead to thousands of dollars in repairs, particularly if moisture results in mold growth inside the home. In fact, hail-related property damage exceeds $1 billion annually, and that number continues to rise.
Whether it’s replacing a few shingles or repairing an entire section of the roof, homeowners spend anywhere from $375 to $7,500 on hail damage repairs.
Since hail damage presents differently depending on the roofing material, we’ll break down how to identify it across common roofing types–and what to look for in a hail-resistant roof.
If a hailstorm has recently hit your area, inspecting your roof for damage is a smart move. Even minor roof damage can lead to leaks that compromise the decking, underlayment, and even the interior of your home. Here’s how to recognize hail damage on three of the most common roofing materials.
Asphalt shingles are the most widely used roofing material in the U.S., covering about 75% of homes. However, they’re also highly susceptible to hail damage–especially older or lower-quality shingles. Shingles that have lost their protective granules are particularly vulnerable, making even small hailstones a potential threat.
When inspecting your asphalt shingle roof for hail damage, look for:
You may also notice discoloration in affected areas, where granules have been knocked off, exposing the underlying material. In severe cases, you might even see glimpses of the roof decking or underlayment where shingles have blown away or broken apart.
After a hailstorm, clay or concrete tile roofs can look like someone took a hammer to a pottery shop. These roofing materials are more brittle and fragile than others. Even walking on them can cause damage, so hail can be especially destructive.
After severe hail, look for:
While clay and concrete tiles are popular in certain regions, hailstorms can leave them severely compromised, requiring prompt inspection and repairs.
Traditional wood shakes and shingles don’t just suffer from hail damage—constant exposure to moisture from rain and humidity can also weaken them over time. Once the wood becomes saturated or brittle, hail impact can easily lead to cracks, splits, and chips.
Signs of hail damage on wood shakes or shingles include:
A hail-damaged wood roof can deteriorate quickly if left unrepaired, so it’s crucial to check for issues after a storm and take action to prevent further water damage.
Hail damage can be a major headache for homeowners, but with stone-coated metal roofing, you can avoid costly repairs and insurance complications.
All DECRA by IKO products carry the highest Underwriters Laboratories (UL) rating for hail impact resistance and are warrantied against damage from hailstones up to 2.5 inches in diameter.
Whether you live in Texas–which led the nation in hail incidents in 2024–Nebraska, Minnesota, or somewhere else prone to severe storms, DECRA by IKO gives you peace of mind that your roof is protected.
While DECRA by IKO provides hail protection, its benefits go far beyond that. Unlike traditional materials such as asphalt shingles, clay tiles, or wood shakes, DECRA by IKO delivers a long-lasting solution for homeowners.
Hailstorms often come with intense winds, which can rip shingles from roofs and cause significant damage. DECRA by IKO metal roofing is warrantied for winds up to 120 mph.
High winds don’t just cause visible damage. They can also push rain into tiny gaps in a roof, leading to hidden leaks and costly water damage inside your home.
Every DECRA by IKO product meets the strict TAS-100 wind-driven rain test, a requirement for selling roofing in South Florida’s High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ), one of the most hurricane-prone regions in the U.S.
Wildfires are no longer just a concern for the West Coast. Recent years have seen devastating fires across the Northeast and other unexpected regions.
DECRA by IKO metal roofing is rated Class A–the highest fire resistance rating available. Unlike flammable roofing materials, DECRA by IKO does not ignite from embers or flames, offering critical protection against wildfires.
Ice dams, freezing temperatures and repeated freeze/thaw cycles can take a devastating toll on your roof. DECRA by IKO’s lightweight nature supports heavy snow loads without sagging. Its nonporous texture also helps snow and ice slide right off the roof before it can accumulate, preventing ice dams.
Investing in a DECRA by IKO Metal Roof isn’t just about protection. It’s also a smart financial decision:
No matter your home’s architectural style, DECRA by IKO offers a wide range of profiles to complement it. Whether you prefer the look of shingles, tiles, or shakes, DECRA by IKO provides strength without sacrificing style.
As spring approaches, now is the perfect time to inspect your roof for signs of wear and tear. Don’t wait until minor damage turns into a costly repair. Request a complimentary sample today and see firsthand why IKO Metals is chosen by millions of homeowners everywhere.