Ping pong-sized hail detected near Lakewood, CO on June 26, 2026
Hail was detected at a radar-indicated point within the Lakewood 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 11 miles north of downtown Lakewood, with one hail report logged in Jefferson County that day. At 1.5 inches, architectural asphalt shingles are at the threshold where functional damage — cracked or missing granules exposing the mat — becomes likely on roofs older than 10 to 12 years; newer roofs may show only cosmetic bruising. Three-tab shingles or wood shake, present in older parts of the city, are more vulnerable at this size and warrant closer scrutiny. Pueblo County recorded 2-inch hail the same day, so storm intensity varied considerably across the region.
On a home near the county median value of $548,200, a 2% wind/hail deductible runs approximately $10,964. Typical repair cost for a 2,000 square foot roof after a 1.5-inch event runs $6,941, with a range of $5,679 to $8,203. 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 Lakewood inspection
Lakewood repair cost reference
Historical context
Among 53 Jefferson County hail events of 1 inch or greater over the past 10 years, this event ranks 14th by magnitude. The largest recorded event in that period was 2 inches on June 22, 2023. June is historically the most active month for hail in this county, accounting for 25 of those 53 events.
Storm system
This was not an isolated cell. El Paso and Weld counties each recorded 1.5-inch hail the same day, Adams County saw 1-inch hail, and Pueblo County took the hardest hit at 2 inches — a pattern consistent with a regional convective system moving across the Front Range.
Contractor guidance
Local contractor data shows current backlogs of 4 to 8 weeks following storm activity in this area. The city intake assessment rates storm chaser risk as high — Lakewood draws out-of-state roofing crews quickly after notable events, with door-to-door solicitation typically beginning within 24 to 48 hours. Colorado does not issue a state roofing license, but Colorado 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 built in. Before signing anything, confirm the contractor carries current general liability and workers' compensation insurance and has a verifiable local business address.
Permits & building code
At 1.5 inches, repair is the more common outcome on roofs in sound condition, though older or previously damaged roofs may tip into replacement territory once inspected. Jefferson County requires a permit for roofing work — the contractor pulls it, cost runs $150 to $400, and an inspection is required on completion. Class 4 impact-resistant shingles qualify for a 10–20% discount with most Colorado insurers.
- 1Photograph the roof, gutters, downspouts, and any damaged skylights or vents from the ground before anyone walks the roof.
- 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 who contacts you unsolicited: ask for proof of general liability insurance, workers' comp certificate, and a verifiable local business address.
- 4Do not sign anything that offers to waive or cover your deductible — this violates C.R.S. § 6-22-105 and can void your insurer's obligation to honor that contractor's estimate.
- 5Keep copies of all inspection reports, photographs, and contractor documents in one place in case you need them later.
This storm may have damaged your roof — get a free Lakewood inspection
Hail size and location are based on NOAA NEXRAD radar data (SWDI); full NWS storm survey write-up is pending.