Ping pong-sized hail detected near Tyler, TX on July 5, 2026
Hail was detected at a radar-indicated point within the Tyler 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 strike was located approximately 7 miles southeast of downtown Tyler, with one hail report logged in Smith County that day. At 1.5 inches, architectural asphalt shingles — the dominant material in Tyler's housing stock — are at the threshold where functional damage becomes possible: granule loss, cracked tabs, and compromised mat integrity are realistic outcomes, not just cosmetic bruising. Roofs older than 10–12 years are more vulnerable; aging shingles lose flexibility and shed granules faster under impact. The county's largest recorded event reached 3.5 inches on June 14, 2023, so this storm sits well below that benchmark.
On a $350,000 home with a 2% wind/hail deductible, you're looking at $7,000 out of pocket before insurance pays anything. Typical repair cost for a 2,000 square foot roof after a 1.5-inch event runs $4,514–$6,521, with a midpoint around $5,518. 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 Tyler inspection
Tyler repair cost reference
Historical context
Over the past 10 years, Smith County has recorded 169 hail events at or above 1 inch — this event ranks 71st of 169 by magnitude. The largest event on record reached 3.5 inches on June 14, 2023. July is historically quiet for this county, with only 2 events in 10 years; April is the peak month with 62 events, so a July storm is outside the norm.
Storm system
Dallas reported 1.25-inch hail the same day, suggesting this was part of a broader weather system rather than an isolated cell over Smith County.
Contractor guidance
Local contractor data shows current backlogs of 1–2 weeks, which is manageable. The intake assessment rates storm chaser risk as low, though the data notes that most post-storm capacity in Tyler comes from contractors based in larger Texas metros. Texas does not require a state-level roofing license, so verification falls on the homeowner — confirm the contractor holds a valid local business license, carries general liability and workers' comp, and is registered with the Texas Secretary of State if operating as a corporation or LLC. Ask for documentation on all three before signing anything.
Permits & building code
At 1.5 inches, repair is more likely than full replacement, though older or already-deteriorated roofs may tip toward replacement after inspection. In Tyler, the contractor pulls the permit — expect $100–$250 in permit fees and a required inspection before the work closes out. Class 4 impact-resistant shingles qualify for a 10–20% discount with most Texas insurers.
- 1Photograph the roof, gutters, downspouts, and any exterior surfaces from ground level — document before anything is disturbed.
- 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 before signing: verify local business license, liability insurance, workers' comp, and state registration.
- 4Do not sign a contract that offers to waive, absorb, or rebate your deductible — this is illegal under Texas Insurance Code § 707.002 and exposes both parties to criminal liability.
- 5Keep all receipts, inspection reports, and contractor communications in one file for your records.
This storm may have damaged your roof — get a free Tyler inspection
This event is based on NOAA NEXRAD radar data (SWDI) and is radar-confirmed, with a full NWS write-up still pending.