Everything You Need to Know About Hail Damage to Windows

During the summer months in the south, there can be heavy hail storms as the weather transitions. In fact, we've been receiving a few calls over the last few weeks from customers who have been impacted by severe storms.

When it comes to severe storms most homeowners know to report possible roof damage to insurance. Did you know you can do the same for windows? If your home has recently been hit by hail we recommend taking some time to inspect your windows for breaks or cracks in the frames.

Assessing Hail Damage

Typically, most hail damage that is found on windows is on the frame. However, that’s not the only damage to windows that can occur during a storm. The most common indicators of hail damage to your windows include:

• Broken or cracked glass
• Screen tear damage
• Dents in the window frame

Preventing Damage

Although you can’t prevent hailstorms from happening, there are some precautionary measures you can take to lessen the chance of damage occurring to your home. 

Storm Doors

Storm doors are made to help protect your entry door from harsh weather elements, bugs, and other external factors. However, storm doors don’t only benefit from protecting your door from hail damage. Storm doors also reduce energy loss since they are essentially an extra insulation layer. 

Storm Windows

Storm windows are another option for protecting your exterior windows. Storm windows are mounted on the outside of your window. New models of storm windows are also available in Low-E glass, which will help block out heat and sound. However, storm windows are not the best option for every home, so it’s important to do your research before considering these as a serious option.

Exterior window shutters

Just like storm doors, window shutters are an extra layer of protection from outdoor elements such as intense sunlight, storms, flying debris, and of course, hail for your windows. Additionally, exterior window shutters can be a versatile and stylish addition to your home.

Repairing Hail Damage

Once you’ve inspected your windows and determined that there is damage to them from a hailstorm, the next step is to file a claim with your homeowner insurer. Weather disasters are covered by homeowners insurance.

Regarding the insurance claim if only one window is damaged,it’s likely not worth paying out the deductible. So, it’s also important to consider the deductible and the overall damage to the home and decide how to proceed. 

In most cases though, there will be other damage (such as roof, door, or other windows), so be sure to detail the real damage in your claim.