Mitigating Hail Damage to Your Home or Business

5/15/2024 (Permalink)

In this blog, we'll explore how to mitigate hail damage to your home or business.

Hail is a type of severe weather that can cause significant damage to homes and businesses. It occurs when strong updrafts and turbulent winds within thunderstorms cause raindrops to freeze into small ice pellets that fall to the ground with considerable force. Depending on the size and density of the hailstones and the severity of the storm, hail can cause substantial damage to roofs, windows, and other parts of your home or business. In this blog, we'll explore how to mitigate hail damage to your home or business.

Check Your Insurance Coverage

Before hail season arrives, you should review your insurance coverage to understand what is included in your policy and what isn't. Understanding your coverage options can help you prepare financially for potential hail damage repairs.

Additionally, consider adding hail damage coverage to your policy if it isn't already included. This extra coverage can provide you with an added layer of protection in the event of hail damage. Be sure to consult your insurance agent and read your policy thoroughly to obtain a better understanding of your coverage options.

Inspect Your Property

It's crucial to inspect your home or business before hail season begins to identify weak spots or potential areas of damage. Pay particular attention to your roof, windows, doors, and other exterior structures that might be vulnerable to hail damage.

If you identify any issues, schedule repairs or maintenance before hail season arrives to mitigate any potential damage.

Install Protective Measures

One of the most effective ways to prevent hail damage is by installing protective measures on your property. For instance, you can install impact-resistant windows and doors to minimize hail damage.

Additionally, you can install hail-resistant roofing materials to protect your roof from hailstones. Speak with roofing companies to evaluate your options for hail-resistant materials. Hail guards or screens can also be a good solution to protect your AC unit and other exterior appliances.

Secure Outdoor Items

During hail season, it's essential to secure any loose items around your property. Secure lawn furniture, potted plants, grills, and any other loose items that can become a projectile in strong winds and hailstorms.

In addition, make sure to park your vehicles in a covered area or garage to protect them from hail damage. If you do not have a garage, use tarps to cover your car temporarily.

Repair Any Existing Damage

If your property has existing damage, such as a leaky roof or broken window, it's critical to have it repaired promptly. Hail can exacerbate existing damage, resulting in more costly repairs if left unaddressed.

Conclusion

Hailstorms are a common occurrence in many parts of the country and can cause significant damage to your property. By following these mitigation strategies, you can reduce your risk of hail damage and ensure your home or business is protected.

Inspecting your property, installing protective measures, securing outdoor items, repairing any existing damage, and checking your insurance coverage can limit the impact of hail damage on your property.

In the event that hail damage does occur, contact SERVPRO® for quick and efficient restoration services. Our team of experts has the experience, knowledge, and equipment to restore your property to its pre-damage condition and minimize the interruption to your life and your business. Don't let hail damage get you down - take the necessary steps to protect your property and contact SERVPRO if you need assistance.