Hail season in Colorado is like a crazy uncle at Christmas: It shows up when it wants, stays too long, and you never know what it’s going to do while it’s here. We all put up with it because we have to, but we can’t escape it because it knows where we live.
That doesn’t mean there aren’t precautions to take to prepare, especially against a hail storm.
There’s more to hail damage prevention than just crossing your fingers. Your property is important. Money has been invested in your home, and your roof is an important line of defense against the elements. That’s why checking out your roof before the hail arrives is an important step, instead of waiting until the damage is done.
Your roof is your defense against the storm, so it’s important to know if it’s in good shape. It’s important to find out if there are any areas with damage, and replace those damaged or broken shingles immediately.
If there was damage from a previous storm that hasn’t been repaired, it almost certainly won’t be covered by your insurance when a new storm comes and wreaks havoc.
But the storm isn’t just coming after your roof. Hail storms don’t discriminate in where they deal damage, so it is important to make sure other precautions are taken, as well.
Depending on the size of the hail, your windows might be at risk. Make sure to keep drapes or blinds closed, since that will help keep the wind from blowing broken glass inside.
On the outside, there are a number of things to look for. Trees make great accents to your property, but during a hail storm, branches can be blown down or blown into your home – and that can cause a lot of damage. Make sure trees are trimmed of dead branches or other branches that could break free during a storm.
Things like outdoor furniture or outdoor toys for your children can also pose a risk. The wind can toss these around, too, but they’re also easily damaged in a hail storm, so it’s important to make sure they’re secured, covered or even moved inside.
More than just your roof can help lessen some of the damage from the storm. Make sure your gutters and drains are clear to allow water to effectively drain from the roof. After the storm, make sure they’re clear of fallen leaves and branches, because proper drainage is vital after a storm, as well. Without that drainage, the rain and melting hail can cause water damage.
Nobody enjoys a dangerous storm. But taking the right precautions before it hits can make the aftermath a lot easier to handle.
For more tips and tricks on how to mitigate some of the risk of damage from a hail storm, or to make sure your roof is in the right shape for the hail season that’s coming, contact Synergy Property Solutions today.