One of the most significant investments many individuals make is purchasing a home. It’s essential to safeguard that investment. It’s more than just an economic one. Your home is your haven. As a result, it serves as a special place where you can cherish the things and people who are most important to you. You should protect your house from natural disasters like hail. In this article, we guide you on preventing and mitigating the effects of hail on your home.
3 Musts to Protect Your Home from Hail Damage
Hail storms aren’t just an inconvenience; they may swiftly become dangerous. We’ve all experienced the hassles that poor weather can bring. Hail storms can happen at any point of the year. So, how might homeowners prevent their properties from being damaged by hail? There are three musts you should do to protect your home from hail.
- Protect Your Roof
Hail damage isn’t limited to your roof, but it is among the most exposed. You may prevent damage to your roof by following these suggestions.
Install Your Roofing with the Help of Professionals
While every homeowner may take satisfaction in a well-executed DIY job, there are instances when you can’t be careless like a home improvement project. Roofing is unquestionably one of those instances. Find qualified personnel for the installation of your roof.
Make Use of Sturdy Roofing Materials
The protection of your roof depends on the materials used in its making. Roofs made of high-quality materials are better able to withstand damage. Choose heavy-duty, impact-resistant roofing if you live in a location where hail is a problem. This shingle is constructed of copper, aluminum, resin, or plastic and is typically used on roofs. They can withstand gusts of up to 110 mph while protecting you from severe hail. Some believe that Class 4 shingles are worth approximately 10% to 20% premium over other building materials. They might save you money over the long term by avoiding costly repairs or premature replacements. Even though they increase the replacement cost, the improved performance they provide is enticing. As a result, your insurance premiums may be reduced.
Regularly Inspect the Roofing
Inspect your roof frequently, and after every storm you suspect has caused damage. If you see leaves on the floor or asphalt surrounding your home, it’s a good idea that a professional inspects your roof.
Having a damaged roof is one of the most common causes of hail damage because a weak roof is more susceptible to stress, strain, and impact. Hail can damage the granules on the exterior of your shingle, exposing them to UV rays, which can weaken them over the long term. Hail damage isn’t always visible in the form of a large, noticeable hole in your roof.
Trim Your Trees
Trees can give shade, but they can’t protect your roof from damage. They may pose a danger to the roof. During a hailstorm, branches could snap and land on your rooftop. Two things need to be on the lookout for. To begin, clip back any branches that appear to be weak or are prone to cracking. First of all, remove branches that could fall on your home, even if they appear to be robust enough. You don’t want a big, hefty limb to fall on your house.
- Ensure the Safety of Your Windows
Hail can harm your windows. Although your windows aren’t as vulnerable as your rooftop, they’re nonetheless vulnerable to hail damage. There are ways to protect them.
- Hail-prone areas might benefit significantly from installing protective shields around the outside of your windows.
- Awnings made of metal could provide protection. Metal awnings must be able to slide down, fully cover the windows, and lock into position to be practical.
- Hinged shutters are another option. They can serve a practical purpose while also being visually appealing.
- Corrugated shutters are often an option for temporary shutters. When a storm is approaching, you may swiftly install these shutters. After the storm has passed, the shutters can be removed and stored. It’s an excellent middle ground between aesthetics and practicality.
- In an emergency, plywood shutters are a good option for window protection. This is not a final solution but you can put it up fast, and it’s preferable to an open window.
Close The Curtains
When it’s hailing, your windows may be smashed regardless of the safety measures you’ve put in place. Things can get inside your house if that happens. You may reduce this danger by closing your curtains, which will help confine any debris that does get inside your home. During a storm, it’s always a good idea to close your drapes. Thick, heavy draperies are ideal, but anything is preferable to nothing in this situation.
- Protect Your Car and Garden Furniture
It’s always a good idea to secure everything outside that you’re concerned about before a storm hits. It’s essential to protect your garden furniture and your car. In a hailstorm, stay indoors and avoid any contact with the elements. Putting oneself in harm’s way is not worth the risk.
Furniture for the Exterior
Ensure that any outside furniture, grills, and lawn equipment are stored in a garage or shed. Suppose you have a carport that is not as good as a garage, but it’s better than leaving items out in the elements.
Protect Your Vehicle
Cars are more costly for most people than patio furniture. Your windshield can be damaged by hail, as well as the rest of your vehicle. It might be stressful to keep your automobile protected from hail, but there are various options.
- Take advantage of any covered parking spaces you may find. Use the garage for car parking. This is the best possible solution. Alternatively, if you don’t have access to a garage or carport, consider parking your vehicle near a structure on the other side of the direction the wind is coming from. It’s preferable to have some cover or protection for your car than to have none at all. However, a tree does not protect. Falling branches won’t be good for the roof of your vehicle.
- In the absence of a cover, you can manage with a blanket. You can get hail shields for your car from several manufacturers. In the absence of one, you can just duct tape the heaviest blankets you own on the outside of your vehicle. It’s easier to deal with taped residues than it is to deal with scuffed paint, dented metal, or shattered glass.
The Final Pick
Hail damage does not occur frequently, yet it can happen anywhere at any time. It’s critical to have everything you need ready. Ensure your rooftop is secure, your windows are safe, and your car is protected before the storm arrives.