Hail Storm Preparation

Tips for Reducing Damage to your Roof during a Hail Storm

It looks like another set of those crazy March hailstorms may be coming through Columbia, SC tonight. Preparation could make the difference in the amount of damage that is done.

Here is a short checklist of things you can do before the storms come. If you have more, please leave them in the comments below. We would love to hear from you.

• ​Trim shrubs and trees. Keep shrubbery and tree limbs managed. Pay special attention to branches that hang close to, or over, your house. Consider having them cut by a professional if the job is more than you are prepared to do yourself. Hail stones will often break the weakest and/or dryest branches.  Trimming can mean less debris flying during a storm. 
• Evaluate outdoor living areas for hazards.  Decorations and outdoor furniture can be blown by the high winds during a hailstorm. Secure outdoor furniture and decorations. Put your garbage can away in a safe place where it won't be thrown against the house in high winds. Keep your wood pile away from the house. In preparation for future storms you may want to consider replacing rock or gravel landscaping material with shredded bark that will cause no harm even when blown by strong winds.
  
• Clean gutters and drainpipes. Make sure gutters and drainpipes are clear so water can drain quickly.
• Secure your home. Close all doors and windows tightly. Make sure pets and animals are secure. Close drapes and blinds, and stay away from glass windows, doors, and skylights. And, please stay inside during the storm.
• Review your disaster plan and emergency kit. OK, so this one isn't home related, but its very important. Review emergency preparations with your family. Make sure everyone knows where to meet if your home isn't accessible. And review the location of emergency supplies within your home.

Once the storm has passed you can evaluate the damage and plan your next steps. We recently wrote about what to do AFTER a hailstorm here >

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