A protocol has been developed for assessing hail-impact damage to steep-slope roof systems. The protocol includes a definition of hail-caused damage to roofing, a detailed field inspection procedure, and a calculation method for determining repair or replacement of hail-damaged roofing materials based on economics.

This paper limits its discussion to asphalt shingles and wood shingles and shakes, although the general principles can be applied to other steep-slope roof systems.

Hail damage is quantified by examining test areas on directional roof slopes to determine the number of damaged shingles/shakes per roofing square. The difficulty in making roof repairs is incorporated via a repair difficulty factor. Finally, the decision to repair or replace hail-damaged roofing is made on an economical basis by comparing expected costs to remove damaged shingles/shakes versus costs to replace roofing on entire slopes.

Download this paper to learn more about the methodology that evolved in the early 1960s for use in field inspections. It has since been taught in numerous short courses and seminars adopted by architects, engineers, consultants, roofing contractors, insurance adjusters, and other parties interested in the assessment of hail damage to steep-slope roof systems.