Ping pong-sized hail detected near Fort Collins, CO on July 21, 2026
Hail was detected at a radar-indicated point within the Fort Collins monitoring area. Actual impact can vary by neighborhood, so nearby homes should use this as a signal to check roofs, gutters, siding, and vehicles.
Damage assessment
The radar-confirmed strike landed approximately 9 miles northeast of downtown Fort Collins — one report was logged across Larimer County that day. At 1.5 inches, architectural asphalt shingles are at the threshold where functional damage becomes plausible: granule loss, cracked tabs, and compromised mat integrity are realistic findings, particularly on roofs older than 10–12 years. Cosmetic bruising is common on newer shingles; functional loss depends heavily on age and pre-storm condition. Larimer County's largest recorded event reached 2.75 inches on June 12, 2017 — today's event is mid-range by local standards.
On a $548,400 home with a 2% deductible, the out-of-pocket threshold before insurance contributes is roughly $10,968. Typical repair cost for a 2,000 square foot roof runs $6,580, with a range of $5,383 to $7,776. Get a professional inspection before making any insurance decisions.
At these numbers, you're better off repairing out of pocket — the typical repair cost falls below your deductible. Filing a claim likely isn't worth it unless a full inspection reveals significantly more damage.
This storm may have damaged your roof — get a free Fort Collins inspection
Fort Collins repair cost reference
Historical context
This event ranks 40th of 96 confirmed hail events of 1 inch or greater recorded in the Fort Collins area over the past 10 years — a mid-tier result in a county with a well-documented hail history. The largest recorded event in that period reached 2.75 inches on June 12, 2017. July is historically the most active month for hail here, accounting for 45 of those 96 events — this storm fits the seasonal pattern.
Storm system
This was not an isolated cell: the same system produced quarter-sized hail in Boulder and half-dollar-sized hail in Weld County the same day, pointing to a broader convective episode across the northern Front Range.
Contractor guidance
Local contractor data shows current backlogs running 4 to 8 weeks — scheduling sooner limits delays. The city intake assessment rates storm chaser risk as moderate, consistent with what follows larger regional hail events in this area. Colorado does not issue a state roofing license, but Senate Bill 38 (C.R.S. §§ 6-22-101 to 6-22-105) requires a written contract on residential jobs over $1,000 with specific consumer protections. Before signing anything, verify current general liability insurance, workers' compensation coverage, and a verifiable local business address.
Permits & building code
At 1.5 inches, repair rather than full replacement is the more likely outcome for roofs in good condition — though age and pre-existing wear can change that assessment quickly. Fort Collins requires the contractor to pull the permit; inspections are required, and permit costs typically run $150 to $350. Class 4 impact-resistant shingles qualify for a 10–20% discount with most Colorado insurers.
- 1Photograph your roof, gutters, downspouts, and any exterior surfaces showing potential impact marks — date-stamp everything.
- 2Get a repair estimate from a licensed contractor before contacting your insurer — at these numbers, out-of-pocket repair is likely cheaper than filing a claim.
- 3Vet any contractor by requesting proof of general liability insurance and workers' compensation before work begins.
- 4Keep copies of all contractor bids, written contracts, and inspection reports in one place for future reference.
- 5Note that under C.R.S. § 6-22-105, any contractor offering to waive or rebate your deductible is violating Colorado law — decline and move on.
This storm may have damaged your roof — get a free Fort Collins inspection
This event was detected via NOAA NEXRAD radar (SWDI) and is radar-confirmed, with a full NWS write-up pending.