Are you ready for hail season? As the weather warms up and the snow thaws, Coloradan’s thoughts turn to outdoor pursuits. So go ahead and start putting your skis away and dust off the kayak or running shoes. At the same time though, you should be making preparations for hail season, since Colorado is one of the most hail-prone states in the country.
Hail Season Stats
According to the Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association, the hail experienced in Colorado over the past several years has resulted in $3 billion in insured losses. In the region bordered by Colorado Springs and Denver alone, there was an average of 13 severe hail events per year.
From mid-April to late June (hail season) we need to think not only of budding trees and blooming flowers but how we can best protect our family and our homes in the face of harsh hail storms. Let’s talk about the top three ways we can get ready for spring storms.
Weather Alerts
Hail storms can arrive quickly, but there is almost always time to get advance warning. Subscribing to weather alerts is a great way to get the heads up that harsh weather is on its way. Social media feeds can also offer vital information to keep you informed about upcoming weather issues.
Local TV news stations frequently offer the availability to subscribe to text and email alerts. Your local government also likely provides alerts. National weather services, such as AccuWeather and The Weather Channel, also offer this service.
Protect Your Roof
There are things you can do in advance to help minimize problems that can be caused by hail. Taking care of your roof is critical in protecting your investment. It’s always best to have a professional inspect your roof before storm season.
While it’s tempting to do it yourself, professionals are trained to spot issues like cracking and punctures that you may miss. Unless your roof is brand new, it may be worthwhile to consider replacing your roof with more durable materials that take advantage of current technology. Keep in mind that over time, cracks and holes can lead to leaks that can result in significant (and costly) damage.
After the Storm
Should you get by a heavy storm, stay inside until all danger has passed. Once you have the all clear, venture out and do a preliminary assessment of possible damage. We do not recommend that you climb up on the roof, since this can present danger if a harness or other safety gear is not in place. You can tell a lot from the ground.
Check your landscape for roofing debris and gravel. Inspect your gutters and siding for damage. This will give you a clue as to how much damage may have been done. Even if you think there may be minimal damage, it’s always smart to get a professional inspection.
Experience the Ultimate Protection
There is finally a roofing shingle that stands up to hail. The new F-Wave REVIA™ premium synthetic roofing shingles come with a class 4 hail warranty. They are rated up to 130-mph wind speeds with a Class A fire rating. All shingles are installed with a 5-year hail resistance warranty. These shingles are 2.5 times stronger than leading asphalt shingles and contain no granules or asphalt, which means they will never become brittle. So if you are considering replacing your shingles this year, consider the new F-Wave REVIA™ premium synthetic roofing shingle and get more out of your roofing investment. What are you waiting for? Contact Priority Restoration today to help make your house hail resistant!
While you can’t prevent all damage due to hail, you can take steps to make sure your family and home stay safe. Stay informed; make sure your roof is in good shape before the season starts, and work quickly after storms to mitigate any problems that may be caused by hail. And while the weather is good, get out and enjoy it!
*Photo by Nina Mace from Pexels