How Big Does Hail Have to Be to Damage a Roof in Cartersville, GA?

Hailstorms are a part of life in North Georgia, and when they hit, homeowners often wonder: “What size hail actually damages a roof?” The truth is, the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Roof age, shingle type, and the strength of the storm all play a role in whether your roof will be bruised, cracked, or completely compromised.

At Rooks Roofing Company, we’ve inspected and repaired countless roofs in Cartersville after hailstorms. Here’s what every homeowner should know about hail sizes, storm damage, and filing insurance claims.

Hail Size vs. Roof Damage

Not all hail is created equal. Here’s a breakdown of when hail typically starts causing problems:

• ¾ inch (dime-sized hail): Considered the insurance industry’s starting point for potential roof damage. On older roofs, this can lead to bruising of the shingle mat.
  
  
• 1 to 1.25 inches: At this size, damage is much more likely — even on newer roofs. You’ll often see missing granules or visible impact marks.
  
  
• 1.5 inches and larger: Significant roof damage is almost guaranteed. Shingles can crack, ridge caps can split, and leaks may soon follow.

Tip: The speed and density of the hail matter just as much as the size. A smaller stone driven by 60+ mph winds can hit harder than a larger one falling straight down.

Hail and Your Home’s Soft Metals

Roofing systems aren’t the only thing hail damages. Metal components of your home often show the first signs:

• ½ inch hail can dent gutters, downspouts, and chimney caps.
  
  
• Metal ridge vents and valley flashing usually take obvious hits, making them strong indicators for insurance adjusters.
  
  
• Pipe boots and exhaust vents are especially vulnerable and may crack under repeated impact.
  If you notice dents in your gutters or metal roofing components, it’s a strong sign that your shingles have suffered damage too.

When Should You File a Claim After a Hailstorm?

Time is critical when it comes to storm damage insurance claims. Most policies give you 12 months from the storm date to file, though some companies allow up to two years.

Here’s why filing quickly matters:

• Claims filed close to the storm date are harder for insurers to deny.
• The longer you wait, the easier it is for adjusters to argue that damage came from normal wear and tear.
• Roofing contractors and adjusters are more familiar with a storm’s impact in the weeks and months following it, which strengthens your case.

From the ground, you might only notice bent gutters or downspout damage. If so, it’s time to schedule a professional inspection.

Why Cartersville Homeowners Choose Rooks Roofing

At Rooks Roofing Company, we pride ourselves on honesty and experience. We don’t push unnecessary claims, and we know exactly how to work with insurance companies to get results.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Free, no-obligation inspections
  
  
• Local experts who understand Cartersville’s storm history
  
  
• A proven track record of helping homeowners get full roof replacements after hailstorms
  
  
• Integrity-driven service — if there’s no damage, we’ll tell you straight
  
  

Protect Your Home After the Storm

Don’t wait until leaks start to show. Hail damage can shorten your roof’s lifespan and lead to expensive repairs if left unchecked.

Call Rooks Roofing Company in Cartersville, GA today to schedule your free roof inspection. We’ll document the damage, guide you through the insurance claim process, and make sure your home is fully protected.

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