--- title: "Hail Season in Western Colorado: How to Inspect Your Roof After a Storm" description: Western Colorado hail just hit your home? Learn how to spot roof hail damage, when to call an inspector, and how to handle insurance claims. image: https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/hubfs/Hail%20PSM%20blog.png --- 80 Gemat Cir, Rifle, CO 81650 | [970.963.6563](tel:9709636563) [![Pacific-Logo](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/hubfs/Pacific-Logo.svg "Pacific-Logo")](https://www.pacificsheetmetal.net/) - [Services](https://3295439.hs-sites.com/services) - [Architectural Metals](https://3295439.hs-sites.com/services/architectural-metals) - [Electrical](https://3295439.hs-sites.com/services/electrical) - [Gutters](https://3295439.hs-sites.com/services/gutters) - [HVAC](https://3295439.hs-sites.com/services/heating-cooling) - [Maintenance & Repair](https://3295439.hs-sites.com/services/maintenance-repair) - [Plumbing](https://3295439.hs-sites.com/services/colorado-plumbing-services) - [Roofing](https://3295439.hs-sites.com/services/roofing) - [Snow Retention and Ice Dam Prevention](https://3295439.hs-sites.com/services/snow-retention-ice-dam-prevention) - [Waterproofing](https://3295439.hs-sites.com/services/waterproofing) - [Water treatment](https://3295439.hs-sites.com/services/water-treatment) - [Resources](https://3295439.hs-sites.com/resources) - [Blog](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog) - Guides - [FAQs](https://3295439.hs-sites.com/resources/faq) - [Planned Maintenance Program](https://3295439.hs-sites.com/resources/planned-maintenance-program) - [Photo Gallery](https://3295439.hs-sites.com/resources/gallery) - [About Us](https://3295439.hs-sites.com/about-us) - [Service Areas](https://3295439.hs-sites.com/about-service-areas) - [Contact](https://3295439.hs-sites.com/contact) # Hail Season in Western Colorado: How to Inspect Your Roof After a Storm March 17, 2026 by [Team Pacific](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog/author/team-pacific) [![](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/hubfs/linkedin-icon.svg)](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?url=https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog/hail-season-in-western-colorado-how-to-inspect-yosur-roof-after-a-storm) ![](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/hubfs/twitter-icon.svg) [![](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/hubfs/facebook-icon.svg)](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog/hail-season-in-western-colorado-how-to-inspect-yosur-roof-after-a-storm) Western Colorado's hail season runs from late April through September, with peak activity in May and June. During this window, severe thunderstorms moving through the Roaring Fork Valley can drop hail ranging from pea-sized to golf ball-sized in minutes. Hail damage doesn't always announce itself with obvious holes or missing shingles. Often, the damage is subtle: cracked shingles, knocked-off granules, or dented flashing, but the impact on your roof's lifespan is significant. A roof that takes a beating from hail in June may look fine until the following winter, when freeze-thaw cycles exploit those hairline cracks and turn minor damage into major leaks. We've inspected hundreds of roofs after hailstorms in Rifle, Glenwood Springs, Aspen, and Carbondale over the past 57 years. Here's how to assess [your roof](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog/your-roofing-contractor-checklist) after a storm and determine whether you need repairs, replacement, or an insurance claim. **Why Hail Damage Is Different in Western Colorado** Hail doesn't just fall here, it falls at altitude with high winds behind it. **The Science of Hail Impact** At elevations between 5,000 and 8,000 feet, hailstones accelerate faster and hit harder than at sea level. Combine that with valley wind patterns that can exceed 50 mph during storms, and you have hail striking roofs at extreme velocities. The damage depends on several factors: - **Hail size:** Anything larger than 1 inch (quarter-sized) can damage asphalt shingles - **Wind speed:** High winds mean hail hits at steep angles, not just straight down - **Roof age and condition:** Older, brittle shingles crack more easily than newer, flexible ones - **Shingle type:** Architectural shingles withstand impact better than standard three-tab shingles Even small hail can cause damage if your roof is already aging or if the storm dumps large volumes over a short period. **Signs of Hail Damage (What to Look For)** Hail damage isn't always obvious from the ground. You need to know what to check and where to look. **1. Check Your Gutters and Downspouts First** Before climbing onto your roof or getting on a ladder, inspect the easier-to-reach areas. **What to look for:** - **Dents in metal gutters, downspouts, or gutter guards:** If hail dented metal components, it likely damaged your shingles too - **Fresh accumulation of shingle granules in gutters:** Hail knocks granules loose; heavy granule deposits after a storm indicate impact damage - **Dents in metal vents, flashing, or roof caps:** These are softer targets than shingles and show damage more clearly **Why it matters:** Visible damage to metal components is a strong indicator that your shingles took a hit, even if you can't see it from the ground. **2. Inspect Shingles for Cracks and Missing Granules** From a safe vantage point (ladder or ground level with binoculars), examine your shingles closely. **What to look for:** - **Dark spots or divots on shingles:** These are impact points where hail knocked granules away, exposing the black asphalt underneath - **Cracked or split shingles:** Hail impact can fracture shingles without tearing them completely - **Bruised shingles:** Shingles may have soft spots or indentations that feel spongy when pressed (don't walk on your roof unless you're experienced and it's safe) - **Random pattern of damage:** Unlike wind damage (which typically affects edges and ridges), hail damage appears randomly across the roof surface **Why it matters:** Loss of granules accelerates aging. Cracks let water penetrate. Even if your roof isn't leaking today, compromised shingles won't survive the next winter's freeze-thaw cycles. **3. Check Roof Flashing and Vents** Flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vents is critical for waterproofing. Hail can dent or crack these components. **What to look for:** - **Dents in metal flashing or vent caps** - **Cracks or separations at flashing seams** - **Displaced or damaged chimney caps** **Why it matters:** Damaged flashing creates immediate leak points. Water infiltration around chimneys or vents can cause interior damage quickly. **4. Inspect Other Exterior Components** Hail doesn't just damage roofs. Check these areas for corroborating evidence: - **AC unit fins:** Dented or flattened fins indicate significant hail - **Window screens:** Torn or punctured screens show hail size and force - **Siding:** Dents, cracks, or chips in vinyl or wood siding - **Outdoor furniture, grills, or vehicles:** Visible hail damage here confirms storm severity **Why it matters:** Exterior damage helps establish the storm's intensity, which is useful for insurance claims and determining roof impact. **When to Call a Professional Inspector** You don't need to climb onto your roof. In fact, walking on a hail-damaged roof can cause additional harm, especially if shingles are already cracked or bruised. **Call for an inspection if:** - **You see visible granule loss, dents, or cracks from the ground** - **Metal components (gutters, vents, flashing) show dent patterns** - **The storm was severe** (golf ball-sized hail, high winds, or prolonged duration) - **Your roof is over 10 years old** (older roofs are more vulnerable to hail damage) - **Neighbors are getting inspections or filing claims** (hail damage is localized; if your street got hit, you likely did too) Professional inspectors know what to look for and can document damage properly for insurance purposes. **How Hail Damage Leads to Bigger Problems** Hail damage rarely causes immediate leaks. Instead, it shortens your roof's lifespan and creates vulnerabilities that worsen over time. **The Timeline of Deterioration** **Immediately after hail:** - Granules knocked loose - Shingles cracked or bruised - Flashing dented **6-12 months later:** - Exposed asphalt deteriorates from UV exposure - Cracks widen from freeze-thaw cycles - Water begins seeping under damaged shingles **1-2 years later:** - Leaks appear during heavy rain or snowmelt - Roof decking shows water damage - Interior ceiling stains or mold growth develops **What could have been a $3,000 repair covered by insurance becomes a $12,000 replacement you pay out of pocket** because you waited too long to file a claim. **Filing an Insurance Claim for Hail Damage** Most homeowners insurance policies in Colorado cover sudden hail damage. Here's how to handle it. **Step 1: Document Everything Immediately** Take photos and videos of: - Dented gutters, vents, or flashing - Shingle damage (close-ups showing granule loss or cracks) - Other exterior damage (siding, AC units, vehicles) - Date and time stamps (use your phone's metadata) **Step 2: Contact Your Insurance Company** Report the claim as soon as possible. Most policies have time limits for filing hail damage claims (typically 1-2 years, but sooner is better). **Step 3: Get a Professional Inspection** Your insurance company will send an adjuster, but it's smart to get your own inspection from a roofing contractor first. This ensures nothing is missed and gives you leverage if the adjuster's assessment seems low. **Step 4: Avoid Storm Chasers** After major hailstorms, out-of-state contractors flood Western Colorado offering "free inspections" and pushing immediate roof replacements. Many are legitimate, but some are not. **Red flags:** - Pressure to sign contracts immediately - Offers to "handle your deductible" (insurance fraud) - No local references or established business address - Unwillingness to provide proof of insurance and licensing **Stick with local contractors** who have a reputation in Rifle, Glenwood Springs, Aspen, or Carbondale. We live here. Our reputation depends on doing right by our neighbors. **What If Your Roof Doesn't Show Obvious Damage?** Not every hailstorm causes roof damage. Smaller hail (under 1 inch) on newer roofs may leave no significant impact. **When You're Probably Okay:** - Hail was pea-sized or smaller - Your roof is less than 5 years old - No visible damage to gutters, vents, or other components - No neighbors reporting damage **When You Should Still Get Inspected:** - Your roof is over 10 years old (more vulnerable to impact) - You're unsure of hail size (better safe than sorry) - You see any signs of damage, even minor A professional inspection costs nothing if you're getting a free assessment, and it gives you peace of mind. **Preventing Future Hail Damage** You can't control the weather, but you can make choices that improve your roof's resilience. **Impact-Resistant Shingles (Class 4 Rating)** If you're replacing your roof, consider impact-resistant shingles. These are rated Class 4 (the highest rating) and designed to withstand hail up to 2 inches without damage. **Benefits:** - Better hail resistance - Longer lifespan in harsh climates - Potential insurance discounts (check with your provider) **Tradeoff:** - Higher upfront cost (typically 10-20% more than standard shingles) For Western Colorado, where hail is a regular threat, Class 4 shingles are worth considering. **Regular Roof Maintenance** Roofs in good condition handle hail better than aging, deteriorating roofs. Keep up with: - Annual inspections - Prompt repairs of damaged shingles - Gutter cleaning (prevents water damage that weakens roofs) [**What Pacific's Free Roof Inspection Covers After a Hailstorm**](https://www.pacificsheetmetal.net/services/roofing) When you call Pacific for a post-hail inspection, we check: - **Shingle condition:** Impact damage, granule loss, cracks - **Flashing integrity:** Dents, cracks, or separation - **Gutters and downspouts:** Dent patterns and damage - **Roof vents and caps:** Impact damage or displacement - **Overall roof structure:** Any signs of compromised integrity We've been inspecting roofs after Western Colorado hailstorms for 57 years. We know what insurance adjusters look for, and we know how to document damage properly. **[Call Pacific at 970.989.9973 or schedule your free inspection](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/contact-us-pacific).** Don't let hail damage shorten your roof's life or leave you vulnerable to leaks. **FAQs: Hail Damage and Roof Inspections in Western Colorado** **How soon after a hailstorm should I inspect my roof?** As soon as it's safe. Document damage immediately for insurance purposes. Professional inspections should happen within a few days to a week after the storm. **Can I inspect my roof myself after hail?** You can check gutters, vents, and visible components from the ground. Avoid walking on your roof—hail damage can make shingles brittle, and you may cause additional harm. Leave detailed inspections to professionals. **Will small hail damage my roof?** It depends on your roof's age and condition. Hail under 1 inch typically doesn't damage newer roofs but can impact older, brittle shingles. When in doubt, get an inspection. **How long do I have to file an insurance claim for hail damage?** Most Colorado policies allow 1-2 years, but filing sooner improves your chances of approval. Damage is easier to attribute to a specific storm if you file quickly. **Does hail damage always mean roof replacement?** No. Minor damage can often be repaired. Widespread damage or older roofs with significant impact typically require replacement. A professional assessment determines the right approach. **What's the difference between hail damage and wind damage?** Hail creates random impact points across the roof surface. Wind damage typically affects edges, ridges, and poorly secured shingles. Both can occur in the same storm. 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March 17, 2026 Western Colorado's hail season runs from late April through September, with peak activity in May and June. During this window, severe thunderstormsfalse [Read More](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog/metal-roofing-vs-asphalt-shingles-in-aspen-what-lasts-longer-at-altitude) [roofing](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog/topic/roofing) [maintenance](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog/topic/maintenance) [home improvements](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog/topic/home-improvements) ##### Metal Roofing vs Asphalt Shingles in Aspen: What Lasts Longer at Altitude? March 20, 2026 Western Colorado's hail season runs from late April through September, with peak activity in May and June. During this window, severe thunderstormsfalse [Read More](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog/metal-roofing-vs-asphalt-shingles-in-aspen-what-lasts-longer-at-altitude-1) [roofing](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog/topic/roofing) [maintenance](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog/topic/maintenance) [home improvements](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog/topic/home-improvements) ##### What Is Heat Tape for Ice Dam Prevention? February 12, 2019 Western Colorado's hail season runs from late April through September, with peak activity in May and June. During this window, severe thunderstormsfalse [Read More](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog/heat-tape-winter-tips) [roofing](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog/topic/roofing) [maintenance](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog/topic/maintenance) [home improvements](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog/topic/home-improvements) [![pacific-orange](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/hubfs/2019%20Rebrand/pacific-orange.svg)](https://www.pacificsheetmetal.net/) **We stand behind all our work 100%.** #### Contact Us 80 Gemat Cir, Rifle, CO 81650 Phone: [970.963.6563](tel:9709636563) Fax: [970.963.6564](tel:9709636564) - [![](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/hubfs/icon-fb-01.svg)](https://www.facebook.com/Pacific-Sheet-Metal-Inc-787436647968930/) - [![](https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/hubfs/icon-in-01.svg)](https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-sheet-metal-inc-/) Copyright 2026 Pacific Sheet Metal | All Rights Reserved | [Privacy Policy](https://www.pacificsheetmetal.net/privacy-policy)  ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Team Pacific", "url" : "https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog/author/team-pacific" }, "dateModified" : "2026-03-17T02:04:24.664Z", "datePublished" : "2026-03-17T02:03:46.000Z", "headline" : "Hail Season in Western Colorado: How to Inspect Your Roof After a Storm", "image" : [ "https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/hubfs/Hail%20PSM%20blog.png" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/blog/hail-season-in-western-colorado-how-to-inspect-yosur-roof-after-a-storm", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://info.pacificsheetmetal.net/hubfs/Pacific-Logo.svg" }, "name" : "Pacific Sheet Metal" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "FAQPage", "mainEntity" : [ { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "You should inspect your roof as soon as it is safe after a hailstorm. Document any visible damage right away and schedule a professional roof inspection within a few days to a week after the storm." }, "name" : "How soon after a hailstorm should I inspect my roof?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "You can safely check gutters, downspouts, vents, siding, and other exterior components from the ground, but you should avoid walking on your roof. Hail can make shingles brittle, and walking on the roof can increase the risk of injury or additional damage. A professional roofing contractor should handle the full inspection." }, "name" : "Can I inspect my roof myself after hail?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Small hail under 1 inch in diameter does not always damage a newer roof in good condition, but it can affect older or more brittle shingles. If you are unsure about the hail size or notice signs of damage, a professional inspection is the best way to confirm the condition of your roof." }, "name" : "Will small hail damage my roof?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Many homeowners insurance policies in Colorado allow about 1 to 2 years to file a hail damage claim, but it is better to act sooner. Damage is easier to document and connect to a specific storm when you report it quickly and support it with photos and a professional inspection." }, "name" : "How long do I have to file an insurance claim for hail damage?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "No, hail damage does not always mean a full roof replacement is needed. Minor localized damage can sometimes be repaired, while widespread impact, heavy granule loss, or damage to an older roof may make replacement the better option. A professional roofing inspection can determine the right next step." }, "name" : "Does hail damage always mean roof replacement?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Hail damage often appears as random impact marks across the roof, including bruised shingles, cracked areas, granule loss, or dents in metal components. Wind damage usually affects edges, ridges, and loose shingles, causing lifting, creasing, or missing shingles. In many Colorado storms, both types of damage can happen at the same time." }, "name" : "What is the difference between hail damage and wind damage on a roof?" } ] } ```