What Nashville Homeowners Should Know About Hail Damage

If you live in Nashville, you're no stranger to hailstorms. In fact, the area averages around three hail events per year — with some storms dropping hail as large as 2.5 inches in diameter, like the one Davidson County experienced back in 2011. And when hail strikes, both homes and vehicles are at high risk of damage.

So, what exactly does hail do to your roof? And what should you look for after a storm? Here’s a helpful overview to prepare and protect your home when the next hailstorm hits.

How Hail Impacts Your Roof

The force of hail depends largely on its size — and its speed increases dramatically the larger it gets:

• Under 1 inch – Falls at 9 to 25 mph

• 1–1.75 inches – Falls at 25 to 40 mph

• 2–4 inches – Falls at 44 to 72 mph

• Over 4 inches – Can exceed 100 mph

  
  

At those speeds, hailstones can do serious damage to roofing materials — sometimes enough to require full replacement. The type of damage often depends on the roofing material itself. Here’s what to look out for, depending on the type of roof you have.

Hail Damage on Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are made of layered materials — fiberglass, asphalt, and protective granules. When hail strikes:

• Granules may be knocked off, exposing the asphalt underneath to sun and weather damage

• Larger stones can bruise the shingle, leaving soft spots similar to a bruised apple

• Cracks or dents can form, increasing the risk of future leaks

Hail Damage on Metal Roofs

Metal roofs are strong, but still vulnerable to hail. Here’s what you might notice:

• Dents and dings, much like what you’d see on a car

• Paint or finish chipping, which can lead to rust or corrosion over time

• While often cosmetic, this damage can reduce the roof’s lifespan if not addressed

Hail Damage on Cedar Shake Roofs

Wood shake roofs are also common in Nashville and can take a beating during severe weather:

• Cracking or splitting, often revealed by lighter-colored wood in contrast with the aged shingles

• Dings and dents, as cedar is a softwood and more susceptible to impacts

• Punctures in the wood, which expose the roofing underlayment to moisture and leaks

What To Do If Your Roof Has Hail Damage

If your home has recently experienced hail or severe weather, don’t wait to take action:

• Schedule a roof inspection as soon as possible

• Most homeowners’ insurance policies have a limited window to file a storm damage claim

• Document visible damage and contact a trusted roofing professional to assess the situation

Delaying roof repairs can lead to larger leaks, more extensive damage, and higher repair costs — including potential structural issues.

Signs It’s Time to Call a Roofer

Contact a local roofing company if you notice any of the following after a storm:

• Shingles on the ground or in your yard

• Water stains on ceilings or walls

• Curled, cracked, or missing shingles

• Granules collecting in gutters

• Any visible dents or damage from hail

• Roof leaks or interior moisture issues

Get Help with Hail Damage in Nashville

Hailstorms are a regular part of life in Middle Tennessee — but your roof doesn’t have to suffer because of it. Work with a trusted local roofer to get a full inspection, expert recommendations, and guidance with the insurance claims process if needed.

If you’re ready to protect your home, schedule a free roof assessment with our team today. Acting quickly can save your roof, your budget, and your peace of mind.