Hail damage can be serious enough to cause cracks in roofing and siding, particularly on vinyl siding and wood shakes. It can even cause dents to aluminum siding. Here's a look at how to protect your home from damage caused by hailstorms.
The best way to protect your home from hail damage is to maintain it on a regular basis so that storms do not worsen existing vulnerabilities. Sometimes just a small leak from a crack in the roof can turn into a bigger problem due to hail damage. Identifying and sealing leaks early will help make your roof more resilient.
When you find out a storm is on the way, don't let expensive outdoor furniture get ruined. Secure all these items in a safe place where they won't be exposed to the storm. It's helpful to plan space in your garage for certain parts of the year when you may need to move furniture inside.
Another key to protecting your roof is to invest in a durable roof designed to resist hail and other adverse environmental elements. Stronger roofs are made out of more robust materials, such as metal rather than wood. Even though a new roof can be expensive, it can help cut insurance costs since it will reduce risks.
Hailstorms are common in places like Florida, Colorado, and Wyoming, where they average up to nine days of hail per year. The more common hailstorms are in your region, the more you should consider a hail-resistant roof.
Windows can get damaged by hail and even break, which can lead to flying glass. To protect against this scenario when a storm approaches, be sure to close shutters, blinds, shades, and other window coverings. The age of the glass is a major factor in how vulnerable it is to a severe storm. Hail moves at a speed of 9 to 25 miles per hour, making it possible to shatter glass.
Be aware that hail is so strong it can damage aircraft, homes, and vehicles. The impact of getting hit with solid ice is similar to getting hit with a rock, which is why it's potentially deadly for people to be exposed to a hail storm. In fact, the ice is so hard that it's referred to as "hailstones." These hailstones can fly sideways, as well as at angles.
Standard homeowners insurance policies vary among insurance companies, so don't assume all plans are the same and cover whatever you need. Read the plan carefully before committing to it, and make sure it includes the protections you need. If it doesn't specifically state that it covers hail or all types of storms, talk with your insurance agent about it. Find out if you need to add an extension to ensure financial protection from hail damage.
Homeowners should double-check their insurance policies to see if it covers hail damage. Changing climate patterns are making it more difficult to predict a hail storm, so to be safe, it's best to make sure your home is protected from hail damage. Contact our experts at Humble Insurance Group to get started on a customized policy for your home.
