How to prepare for a hailstorm

How to prevent hail damage to your home

While just about every home is at risk for hail damage, there are a few things anyone can do to be prepared for a hailstorm. Here's how to help minimize hailstorm damage whether you receive a storm warning or watch:

Consider your roof

Ensuring your roof is in good condition is a good first step in minimizing hail damage. Roofs that are already in need of repair, or are aging, may be more prone to damage with failing hailstones. Regular roof inspections can help you determine the state of your current roof and how it might hold up against a hailstorm.

If you're due for a new roof, replacing your existing shingles with impact shingles can help prepare for severe weather and combat hail damage. These high-end shingles are made with asphalt and synthetic rubber (SBS) blended into them. They're less prone to cracking and sustaining damage from the elements, and they have a bit of bounce, which helps resist impact damage from hail or other objects.

On the downside, impact shingles cost about 10% to 25% more than standard roofing shingles. They're also tough to install after the fact but are an excellent option to consider if it's time to replace your roof. However, their durability can make the investment worth it if hailstorms are common in your area. Material and labor costs, the height of your home, and the type and pitch of your roof are factors that contribute to the cost of replacing a roof. The type of roof you have may also contribute to the price you pay for homeowners insurance.

Hail-proof your windows

If high winds are involved, your windows may also be at risk if a hailstorm is imminent. Direct impact is one of the primary ways hail damages windows. Hail striking a window can result in cracks, holes in the glass, or structural integrity compromises.

A few ways to help prevent window damage include using protective window films, which can withstand impact and prevent shattering. Additionally, using exterior storm shutters and other protective screens, which can forgive impact more easily than glass, may also help prevent window damage.

How to tell if your home has hail damage

To check your home for hail damage, survey both the interior and exterior for damage. Check all windows and doors for any glass damage, including tiny pinholes that could later spread into a larger crack. Check ceilings for any water damage, as this can indicate something less obvious with the roof.

Once you get outside, review the roof more closely — from a safe position. If you aren't well-versed in how to tell if you have hail damage on your roof, it's recommended to consult or hire a professional to inspect it. They’ll be able to properly assess the damage to determine if it would warrant repairs.

Is there anything you can do to fix your home after hailstorm damage?

Home insurance policies may cover repair costs if there's been hail damage to your house. If yours does and you have hail damage, you can file a homeowners claim to have your roof or windows repaired or replaced by submitting photos of broken windows and the damaged roof. Your insurance policy may cover the costs to repair or replace damaged windows and your roof up to your dwelling coverage limit and minus any deductible.

Learn more about how homeowners insurance can help cover broken windows and a damaged roof.

What to do after a hailstorm

Even if your homeowners insurance policy may cover hail damage, you may wonder what to do after a hailstorm when the damage is minimal. If the repair costs are less than your deductible, it's likely not worth filing a claim, so you would take responsibility for the repair costs.

Protect against hail damage with homeowners insurance through Progressive