Metal roofs are known for their durability, but they’re not completely immune to hail. While most metal roofs hold up better than shingles or tile, metal roof hail damage can still happen under certain conditions. In this guide, you’ll learn what causes damage, how to identify signs of it, and what steps to take after a storm.

Can Hail Damage a Metal Roof?

It’s a fair question—especially if you’ve ever walked outside after a storm to find your car covered in pockmarks. If hail can dent a vehicle, can hail damage a metal roof, too?

The short answer: It’s rare, but possible under the right conditions.

Metal roofs are among the most hail-resistant roofing systems available. Unlike asphalt shingles, fiberglass, tile, or slate, metal doesn’t crack, split, or weaken with age. That’s why many homeowners choose it for long-term protection.

Here’s how metal stacks up:

  • High durability: Metal doesn’t become brittle over time like shingles or tiles, which means fewer leaks or failures as the roof ages.
  • Less vulnerable to penetration: Hail can puncture older shingle roofs, leading to mold, attic damage, or water intrusion, but metal holds strong.
  • Surface-level dents are usually minor: Large hail may cause visible dings, especially on smooth or untextured panels. But this kind of hail damage on a metal roof is typically cosmetic, not structural.

In most cases, metal roof hail damage looks worse than it actually is. The roof continues to serve as a strong, reliable barrier against the elements, even after a hailstorm.

The surface of the metal roof during heavy rain

Factors That Affect Hail Damage

Not all hailstorms cause the same impact. The risk and severity of metal roof hail damage depend on a few key factors:

  • Hail size: Small hail rarely causes issues, but larger stones can leave dents or marks.
  • Metal type and thickness: Thicker gauges and stronger alloys (like steel) offer more resistance than thinner panels or softer metals like aluminum.
  • Roof profile: Textured or corrugated metal can hide minor dents better than flat or standing seam panels.
  • Slope and pitch: Steeper roofs deflect hail more effectively than low-slope surfaces.
  • Age and condition: Older roofs with existing wear or less secure installation may be more vulnerable during extreme storms.

Understanding these variables helps homeowners and contractors better assess the likelihood and type of damage after a hail event.

Common Types of Hail Damage on Metal Roofs

Even though metal roofs are highly durable, hail can still leave its mark. The good news? Most metal roof hail damage is cosmetic, not structural. Here are the most common types of damage:

  • Surface dents: These are usually caused by larger hailstones, but dents may appear on flatter panels or ridge caps.
  • Coating or paint damage: Hail can chip or scratch the finish, especially on older panels or roofs with thinner coatings.
  • Fastener or seam issues: Rare but possible—extreme impacts might loosen exposed fasteners or stress seams on poorly installed roofs.

In most cases, the roof remains fully functional and watertight.

“We recently had golf-ball and slightly larger hail through my area of the country, and I have not seen one metal roof that needed to be replaced,” said contractor Todd Miller on the Metal Roofing Alliance website. “However, many standard shingle roofs as well as siding installations needed to be replaced.”

Man installing metal sheet roof by electrical drilling machine.

Cosmetic vs. Functional Damage: What’s the Difference?

Not all metal roof hail damage needs repairs. Some damage only affects appearance, while other issues compromise performance. Here’s how to tell the difference:

  • Cosmetic damage includes surface-level dents or dings. These typically happen during severe storms with large hail and are more noticeable on smooth or flat panels. However, they often blend into textured roofing and rarely cause internal problems. Very large hail might leave visible marks, but it generally won’t result in damage that affects the inside of your home.
  • Functional damage refers to impacts that affect the roof’s ability to protect, such as seam separation, fastener issues, or punctures. Though rare, this kind of damage can lead to leaks and should be addressed quickly.

One major advantage of metal is that its durability doesn’t fade with time. As contractor Todd Miller explains: “One BIG benefit to metal roofing is that it does not lose its impact resistance as it ages. Unlike other roofing materials, metal will resist hail the same in 50 or more years as it does when it’s new.”

How to Inspect Your Metal Roof After a Hailstorm

After a hailstorm, a quick inspection can help you spot potential issues before they turn into costly repairs. Here’s how to safely check for hail damage on a metal roof:

  1. Start from the ground: Look for obvious dents, especially on flatter areas like ridge caps or standing seam panels.
  2. Check gutters and downspouts: Hail often dents or clogs gutters. These signs may indicate roof impact as well.
  3. Look for coating damage: Scan for chipped paint or exposed metal, which may lead to rust over time.
  4. Inspect flashing and trim: These components are more vulnerable to impact and can reveal storm intensity.
  5. Don’t walk on the roof: Metal roofs can be slippery after rain. Hire a professional if you need a close-up inspection.

Even if your roof appears fine, consider scheduling an expert assessment after severe weather.

roofer installing metal drip edge profile on the house roof

What to Do If You Suspect Hail Damage

If you think your home may have hail damage on a metal roof, taking quick, informed steps can help protect your investment and avoid bigger issues later.

  1. Document the storm’s effects: Take photos of any visible damage to your roof, gutters, and surrounding property.
  2. Schedule an inspection: Contact a qualified metal roofing contractor to assess both cosmetic and functional damage.
  3. Review your insurance policy: Some policies cover hail-related roof damage. Check what documentation your provider requires.
  4. Don’t delay: Small issues can lead to long-term wear, especially if seams or fasteners have been compromised.

When in doubt, it’s better to have your roof checked than risk hidden structural problems later on.

Repair vs. Replace: What Makes Sense?

Even after a hailstorm, metal roofs remain one of the strongest, most reliable options for long-term protection. Most metal roof hail damage is cosmetic, but if replacement panels or repairs are needed, they’re often easy to address. 1st Coast Metal Roofing Supply can provide guidance and the materials you need to get the job done right.

Get a quote today and take the next step toward a roof that’s built to last.