Colorado Springs Utilities Rates Are Increasing in 2026: What You Need to Know
CSU rates rise in 2026 with new Energy Wise time-of-use pricing. See what’s changing and how solar can help control energy costs. Learn more.
What to Do When Hail Hits Your Solar Panels
Hail damage is one of the biggest concerns we hear from customers who are thinking about installing solar panels in Colorado. It’s a valid concern—we can see some pretty intense hail storms on the Front Range, and since panels are roof-mounted, they take the brunt of the weather.
Luckily, most hail storms are not strong enough to damage solar panels. But when damage does occur, it’s almost always from extreme or unusually large hailstones.
This guide explains how hail impacts solar panels, what to do if your solar panels get hit, how insurance works, and how to repair hail damage quickly and safely.
How Does Hail Impact Solar Panels?
Solar panels are more durable than many homeowners and businesses realize. While the glass faces are technically a point of vulnerability, high-quality panels must pass strict impact testing–including hailstones up to about one inch in diameter at high velocity.
At Solar Power Pros, we install top-tier panels with excellent hail resistance. You’ll want to look for panels with a UL 61730 or IEC 61730 rating, which means they’ve undergone rigorous testing. Products we’ve installed like the Hyundai 435W Bifacial solar panels and Qcells 430 solar panels meet these requirements. To learn about our current available products, reach out.
Surprisingly, your roof is significantly more susceptible to hail damage than your solar panels. In most hail storms, your solar array will actually act as a shield, protecting a large portion of your roof. Coloradans know how heavy and unpredictable the hail season can be, which usually occurs between mid-April through mid-September. You may find it hard to believe solar panels can be this durable. But it’s true—take this real-world scenario as an example.
Proven Strength: The NREL Hailstorm Example
In May of 2017, a massive hailstorm ripped through the Colorado foothills, damaging thousands of roofs, properties, and vehicles.
One area hit hardest was Golden Colorado, home to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) where solar technologies are developed and continuously improved. NREL is home to a solar array of more than 3,000 panels! Only one panel at NREL was broken out of the thousands present. For a storm of that scale, it remains one of the strongest real-world demonstrations of solar panel durability.
Only One out of 3,000 Solar Panels Was Damaged in This Massive Colorado Hail Storm
Common Questions About Hail and Solar Panels
Can Solar Panels Survive Large Hailstones?
Panels can withstand hailstones up to 1-1.25 inches in most cases. Damage typically becomes possible with golf-ball-sized hail or larger.
Are Some Panels More Hail-Resistant Than Others?
Yes. Higher-quality panels often have stronger glass, higher IEC impact ratings, and more durable frames. We can advise on panel hail ratings (ex: Qcells, Hyundai) if needed.
After the Storm: What to Do If Your Solar Panels Were Hit by Hail
Solar panels are impressively strong, but Colorado does see occasional storms with 2-inch or larger hailstones during particularly strong hail years. If your home or commercial property gets hit, here’s what to do step-by-step:
1. Assess the Damage (Safely)
After a hail storm, look for:
- Visible cracks or chips
- Shattered glass
- Deformed frames
- Reduced power production
Use binoculars or a drone if possible to inspect your panels. Do NOT get on your roof after any severe weather event.
2. Document What You See
Safely take photos if visible from the ground. Take note of unusual system behavior, alerts, or monitoring drops.
3. Call a Qualified Solar Technician
When you get in touch with Solar Power Pros, our technicians can:
- Evaluate you solar panels for hail damage
- Document findings for insurance
- Coordinate with roofing companies (if needed)
- Provide repair or replacement options
Repairs made by non-solar professionals can void your warranty, so it’s crucial to bring in a certified technician.
Paying for Damage: Warranties & Insurance
Most solar panel warranties don’t cover hail damage because hail is considered an environmental event. However, that doesn’t mean you have to pay for all the repairs out of pocket.
Most homeowner’s insurance or commercial property insurance will include solar panels as a part of a roof damage claim. While Solar Power Pros doesn’t file claims on your behalf, we do provide the detailed assessment and documentation your insurer typically requires. This ensures you have clear evidence of the damage and a professional recommendation for repair or replacement.
Repairing Solar Panel Hail Damage
Before you hire the first random roofing company that knocks on your door after a hailstorm, contact our Pros. As a residential solar maintenance company, our technicians are highly qualified to assess for damage. If your roof is also damaged, we can recommend a trusted roofing partner. We work directly with your chosen roofer to ensure:
- Panels are removed safely
- Roof repairs don’t void solar warranties
- Reinstall is completed correctly
- System performance is restored quickly
Over our 12+ year history, we most commonly see the need for our specialized solar panel removal and replacement service due to roof repair, as opposed to solar panel damage. Solar Power Pros technicians are W-2 employees–no subcontractors–ensuring consistent quality, safety, and accountability.
If you’re ready to get started, request service today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Panels and Hail
Do solar panels need to be inspected after every storm?
Not for typical hail, but after large hail (1.5″ or bigger), it’s smart to visually check from the ground and contact a technician for a professional inspection if anything looks unusual.
Can hail damage reduce solar production even if glass isn’t broken?
Yes — microcracks can reduce output. Monitoring data usually reveals this quickly.
How do I know if my commercial solar system has hail damage?
Monitoring drops, alerts, or uneven string performance are common first signs. We offer full commercial hail-damage inspections.
Are hail-resistant or hail-proof solar panels available?
All panels must meet minimum impact ratings, but premium modules offer improved hail resistance. We can review panel options case-by-case.
Is hail damage covered by insurance?
Homeowners insurance typically covers hail damage. Commercial coverage varies by policy. We assist both homeowners and businesses with documentation.
Does hail netting help protect solar farms or ag installations?
Sometimes—but it must be installed carefully to avoid shading or structural issues. Some commercial and agri businesses explore protective netting to mitigate damage risks in hail-prone regions. We do not typically install hail netting, but we can advise when it may be appropriate or recommend alternatives (panel tilt adjustments, stronger panel options, monitoring alerts).
Stay Prepared. Stay Powered. Let Our Pros Help You Handle Colorado Hail.
When hail hits, fast, expert evaluation makes all the difference. Whether you need an inspection, repair, system removal, or reinstallation, Solar Power Pros is here for you.
