Whether the pellets are large or small, hail can wreak havoc on your house. These bits of frozen rain can fall upward of 100 miles per hour and might lead to roof repairs and other costly trouble. Here are a few ways you can reduce the effects of a hailstorm on your property.

5 Tips for Preventing Hail Damage

1. Add Storm Shutters

Window panes can shatter when struck by any size hailstone. To avoid chips, cracks, and dangerous breaks, install storm shutters that will create a durable barrier to protect the glass. Storm shutters come in an array of designs to suit your property’s style and architecture.

2. Move Outdoor Elements

Lawn furniture such as patio tables and chairs should be stored in a garage or shed during a storm. Hailstones can crash and break glass tabletops and will ding and splinter wooden structures. Even the fabric of umbrellas can experience damage when a heavy storm rolls through. Also, relocate benches and fragile yard decorations like sculptures, wind chimes, and other decor.

3. Install a Hail-Resistant Roof

Your roof is one of the more vulnerable areas when hail hits. Choose a hail-resistant roofing system as extra security during storm season. Modified asphalt shingles are durable against impact and are affordable for your roof installation. Other materials that can help stave off roof repairs include shingles made from aluminum, copper, or resin. While a bigger investment than asphalt, they will protect your property from needing roof repairs—no matter how large the hail pellets are.

4. Protect Your Vehicles

Hail pellets will leave behind impact damage on your car and can even shatter your windshield. Move vehicles into a covered area like a carport or garage. There are also hail covers for cars that will reduce damage from these frozen stones. In a pinch, you can also lay plywood over windows and layer rubber mats or thick blankets over the hood.

5. Get Homeowners Coverage

Make sure your homeowners insurance policy includes hail damage coverage. Review your paperwork and speak with an insurance agent, especially if you are in an area that sees hail frequently. Insurance can offset the costs of repairs from hailstorms.

For roof repairs after a hailstorm, trust the contractors at DC Roofing. Located in New Richmond, WI, this locally owned company has specialized in roof repairs and inspections for more than two decades. Call (715) 377-6714 for a free estimate, or visit them online to learn more about their services.