Living in Colorado: How to Prepare Your Home for Hail Season
Living in Colorado comes with the beauty of mountain views, fresh air, and outdoor adventures, but it also brings its share of extreme weather. Hailstorms, in particular, are common across the state, especially in areas like Longmont. If you’ve lived here for a while, you know that hailstorms can cause significant damage to your home.
But here’s the good news—there are plenty of steps you can take to protect your home from hailstorms. By being proactive, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your property safe. Whether it’s a roof inspection or simply securing outdoor furniture, a little preparation goes a long way. Let’s walk through the best ways to prepare your Colorado home for hail season.
1. Get a Roof Inspection Before Hail Season
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense during a hailstorm, so making sure it’s in top condition is crucial. Even minor roof issues, like loose shingles or small cracks, can lead to major damage when a hailstorm hits. This is where your local Longmont roofers can be of service. They can thoroughly inspect your roof for any existing issues and make the necessary repairs before the storms roll in.
Professional roofers in the area specialize in hail damage prevention and offer free inspections. This is a great way to ensure your roof is ready to handle whatever hail season throws at it. By addressing any weak spots now, you’ll save yourself from the headache of bigger problems later. If your roof has taken a beating from previous storms, your roofer might suggest impact-resistant shingles, which can better withstand hail damage.
Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your roof. A quick inspection can prevent thousands of dollars in repairs down the line.
2. Protect Your Windows from Hail Damage
Hailstorms don’t just threaten your roof—they can also shatter windows. The impact of hailstones, especially during a severe storm, can break glass, leading to water damage inside your home and leaving you with broken windows to deal with. To prevent this, consider taking steps to protect your windows before the storm hits.
One option is to install storm shutters, which act as a barrier between your windows and the hail. These can be particularly helpful in areas like Longmont, where hailstorms are frequent. If storm shutters aren’t feasible, impact-resistant glass is another solution. These windows are designed to withstand the force of hailstones, reducing the likelihood of breakage.
If neither of these options is possible, applying a protective film to your windows can be a cost-effective alternative. While this won’t stop the glass from breaking, it can hold the shattered pieces together, preventing further damage inside your home and making cleanup easier.
3. Trim Trees and Remove Debris from Your Yard
Hailstorms often bring strong winds, which can cause branches and other debris to become hazardous projectiles. Overhanging tree branches, in particular, pose a threat to your roof, windows, and siding. When high winds hit, those branches can break off and cause serious damage to your home.
Before hail season begins, make it a priority to trim any trees near your house. This reduces the risk of branches falling during a storm and causing damage. It’s also a good idea to remove any loose debris from your yard, such as twigs, leaves, or outdoor items that could become airborne in the wind. By keeping your yard clear, you’ll reduce the chances of debris damaging your home during a storm.
4. Secure Outdoor Furniture and Equipment
Outdoor furniture, grills, and other items in your yard can become dangerous in a hailstorm. Strong winds can send these objects flying into your home, damaging windows, doors, and siding. Before a storm hits, make sure to secure or store any loose items that could be blown around.
This doesn’t just apply to furniture—think about garden tools, toys, or decorations as well. Even a lightweight object can cause damage when thrown by the wind. Storing items in your garage or shed or securing them with ropes or straps can prevent them from becoming projectiles during a hailstorm.
By taking a few minutes to secure your outdoor space, you can protect both your belongings and your home from unnecessary damage. It’s a small step that can make a big difference when the storm arrives.
5. Clean and Check Your Gutters
Your gutters play a crucial role in protecting your home from water damage during storms. When it hails, the ice will eventually melt, and that water needs to be directed away from your home. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up, leading to leaks and even foundation issues if the water isn’t properly drained.
Before hail season begins, take the time to clean out your gutters. Remove any leaves, dirt, or debris that may have accumulated. Make sure your gutters are securely fastened to your home so they can handle the heavy rain and hail melt-off. Checking for any signs of wear, such as cracks or rust, is also a good idea.
6. Install Impact-Resistant Siding
While roofs and windows often take the brunt of hail damage, the sides of your home can also be affected. Standard siding can be dented or even cracked by large hailstones, leading to expensive repairs. If you live in an area that regularly experiences hail, like Longmont, it might be worth considering impact-resistant siding for your home.
Impact-resistant siding is designed to absorb the force of hail without sustaining significant damage. It’s a smart investment that can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for repairs after storms. Plus, modern siding options are both durable and visually appealing, so you don’t have to sacrifice style for protection.
If you’re already thinking about upgrading your home’s exterior, impact-resistant siding can provide the peace of mind you need during hail season.
Living in Colorado means being prepared for hail season, but by taking these steps, you can protect your home and minimize damage. From getting a roof inspection to securing outdoor items, preparation is key. Don’t wait for the first storm to arrive—be proactive and work with local experts to make sure your home is ready for whatever the weather throws your way.
