Lakeville, MN Experiences Massive Hail Damage – 07/04/2023
Independence Day festivities were quickly halted on July 4, 2023, as a massive hailstorm blasted through the Lakeville, Stillwater, and Cottage Grove, MN area. This slow-moving storm produced damaging hail for nearly 12 hours, according to reports. It produced hail ranging from mini-pellets up to 1.9” in diameter.
Photo taken from: https://maps.hailstrike.com/hail-report/minnesota/lakeville-mn-07-04-2023-2/
What is the Smallest Amount of Hail Needed to Damage a Roof?
To properly answer this question, the homeowner must understand and be aware of the age of their roof and the quality of materials used. Obviously, if the roof is nearing the end of its useful life, it may not take much to cause some damage. Likewise, if an inferior product is used, or it was haphazardly installed, the damages can be more severe.
According to reports, the damage this storm produced was nearly 96,000 buildings. Along with buildings needing repairs, crops were destroyed, glass shattered, and vehicles pelted.
What Damage Occurs to a Roof Based on Hail Size?
Here is a breakdown based on size and the damage that can result from it.
- ¼” hail – Pea-sized – A “safe” hail. This size of hail doesn’t tend to last very long, and the force against the roof is minimal.
- ½” sized hail – Marble-sized – Most generally, this size of hail won’t cause great damage, unless a storm gains strong winds and intensity. If a roof has some previously damaged areas, the hail can puncture these areas and increase the depth of damage.
- ¾” to 1” – Now we begin to shift the discussion and focus on severe damages to a roof. There is a good chance areas will need repair.
As hail increases in size, damages can occur in the form of dents, cracks, splits, and breaks in the roofing material and/or siding. Leaving these areas unattended after a storm is only asking for trouble when the next storm approaches.
- 1 ¼” and Larger – Golf ball size and larger – Take a deep breath and have the phone handy because hail this size pounding on your home can cause substantial damage. Not only to your roof but also to any vehicles left outside. These pounding chunks of ice can cause intense rips in the siding, busted windows, ripped screens, and broken shingles.
Photo taken from: https://kstp.com/kstp-news/local-news/photos-hail-other-major-weather-systems-reported-across-the-region/
Hail is just part of the Minnesota summertime weather we must endure. Be prepared when you see a storm approaching by moving all outdoor furniture and vehicles into a safe area. Be sure the children come inside where it is safe, and advise them to stay away from windows and doors. When fierce winds accompany some of these brutal hail and thunderstorms, it is hard to predict the outcome.
Bruggeman Exteriors and Roofing
When massive storms pound local communities, and damages require repair, trust the professionals at Bruggeman Exteriors and Roofing in the Twin Cities area. We understand the devastation that can occur to homes and businesses and are ready to assist you in bringing the quality of your beautiful home back to its former glory. If you are suffering from damage caused by this massive storm, don’t wait. Call today and let’s begin a plan to restore your home.
