Phone answered 24/7 · Kirkland, WA and nearby communities

Call 24/7: (425) 406-3256
Juanita Bay Water ResponseWater Damage Help · Kirkland, WA

How Hailstones Form and Why They're So Destructive

Last updated October 25, 2026

Call Now (425) 406-3256

The short answer

The Birth of a Hailstone

Hail starts as a tiny raindrop or ice crystal inside a thunderstorm cloud. Strong updrafts, winds that blow upward, carry that droplet into freezing temperatures high in the atmosphere. There, it freezes into a small pellet of ice.

As the pellet is tossed around by updrafts, it collides with supercooled water droplets, which freeze onto its surface. Each trip through the cloud adds another layer of ice. The longer the hailstone stays aloft, the larger it becomes, sometimes reaching the size of a golf ball or larger.

  • Updrafts must be strong to keep hail suspended
  • Layers of ice build like an onion
  • Hailstones can grow to several inches across
  • They fall when gravity overcomes the updraft
  • Most hailstones are small, but severe storms produce giants

Why Hail Damages Homes

Hail falls at high speed, and large stones carry a lot of kinetic energy. When they hit a roof, they can bruise or crack asphalt shingles, dislodge tiles, or puncture membranes. Even small hail can knock granules off shingles, leaving the roof vulnerable to sun and rain.

Windows, siding, and gutters also suffer. Broken glass and dented metal are common after a severe storm. The real problem often shows up later: water seeps through damaged roofing or flashing and causes leaks, rot, and mold inside walls and ceilings.

  • Shingles lose protective granules
  • Windows can crack or shatter
  • Siding may dent or split
  • Gutters and downspouts get bent
  • Roof flashing can loosen
  • Water finds its way into the home

Spotting Hail Damage Early

After a hailstorm, check your roof and exterior from the ground or a safe vantage point. Look for missing shingles, dark spots, or shiny areas where granules have worn away. Check windows for cracks, and inspect siding for dents or holes.

Inside your home, watch for water stains on ceilings or walls, damp spots in the attic, or peeling paint. These can signal that water has already entered. The sooner you find damage, the less chance of mold and structural problems.

  • Walk around the house and inspect the roofline
  • Look for granules in gutters or on the ground
  • Check window seals and frames for cracks
  • Feel attic insulation for dampness
  • Note any new stains on ceilings or walls

What to Do After a Hailstorm

Act quickly to limit water damage. If you see a leak, place a bucket under it and move furniture away. You can tarp a damaged roof if it is safe to do so, but never climb onto a steep or wet roof. Your safety comes first.

Document the damage with photos and notes for your insurance claim. Then contact local water damage pros for a thorough inspection. They can find hidden moisture and help dry out your home before mold takes hold. If you live in Kirkland, keep your insurance policy handy and your roof inspection records in a safe place.

  • Take photos of all visible damage
  • Move valuables away from leaks
  • Tarp only if you can do it safely
  • Dry wet areas with fans if possible
  • Call the pros to assess hidden moisture

How the Pros Help with Hail Water Damage

Local water damage pros know how to find moisture that you cannot see. They use moisture meters and thermal imaging to locate water trapped in walls, ceilings, or under flooring. This is key because hidden moisture can cause rot and mold over time.

They also handle structural drying and dehumidification, which pulls water out of materials and prevents further damage. If drywall or flooring is beyond saving, they can remove and replace it. Their goal is to restore your home to a dry, safe condition.

  • Moisture mapping finds hidden water
  • Industrial dehumidifiers dry walls and floors
  • Damaged drywall and insulation are removed
  • Flooring may need replacement if soaked
  • Mold prevention is part of the process

Water damage does not wait

Phones are answered 24/7 for Kirkland and nearby communities.

Call Now (425) 406-3256

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take for water damage to show after hail?

It can take days or even weeks. Water may seep slowly through damaged shingles or flashing, staining ceilings only after the material becomes saturated. Check your attic and ceilings regularly for a few weeks after a hailstorm.

Can hail damage cause mold?

Yes. If water enters your home and stays in damp materials like drywall or insulation, mold can grow within 24 to 48 hours. Acting quickly to dry the area is the right way to prevent mold. If you see mold, contact a mold professional.

Do I need to call the pros if I only see minor hail damage?

Even minor damage can lead to bigger issues. Small dents or granule loss can let water in over time. A professional inspection can catch problems early and save you from costly repairs later. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Call Now (425) 406-3256