Ping pong-sized hail detected near Highlands Ranch, CO on September 20, 2026

Damage assessment

The radar-indicated strike landed approximately 18 miles southeast of downtown Highlands Ranch, with one hail report logged across Douglas County that day. At 1.5 inches, architectural asphalt shingles are at the functional damage threshold — granule loss is likely on shingles older than 10–12 years, and mat bruising is possible even on newer material. Three-tab shingles or wood shake, found in some older sections of the community, are more vulnerable at this size. This event ranks #5 of 23 recorded hail events at or above 1 inch in the county over the past decade, so it is a meaningful but not extreme storm for this area.

Highlands Ranch repair cost reference

Historical context

This event ranks 5th of 23 recorded hail events at or above 1 inch in Douglas County over the past 10 years, placing it in the upper tier by magnitude. The largest recorded event in the county reached 1.75 inches on June 6, 2016. September sees roughly 3 events per decade here — this storm is within normal range for the month, which is late in the typical hail season.

Storm system

This was not an isolated storm. The same system produced baseball-sized hail (3.75 inches) in El Paso County and 3-inch hail in Pueblo County the same day, suggesting a broad convective outbreak across the Front Range — though Highlands Ranch saw significantly lower intensity.

Contractor guidance

Local contractor data shows current backlogs running 4 to 8 weeks, so scheduling an inspection sooner reduces wait time. The storm chaser risk for Highlands Ranch is rated high — door-to-door solicitation from out-of-state contractors typically begins within 24 to 48 hours of a notable storm. Colorado does not require a state-level roofing license, but Colorado SB 38 (C.R.S. §§ 6-22-101 to 6-22-105) mandates 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 common outcome — though roof age and existing condition will determine what an inspection finds. Douglas County requires a permit for roofing work ($150–$400), the contractor pulls it, and an inspection is required before the job closes. Class 4 impact-resistant shingles qualify for a 10–20% discount with most Colorado insurers.