How to Protect Skylights From Hail Damage and Make Your Home Safer
Hail may seem small, but the damage it can cause to your home can be mighty
Skylights are a wonderful addition to any space, infusing interiors with natural light and creating a sense of openness. However, they’re also vulnerable to the unpredictable forces of nature, especially hailstorms. From selecting the right materials to exploring protective measures, we've got you covered when it comes to safeguarding these luminous architectural features. Let's jump in and learn how to protect skylights from hail damage.
Why Should I Protect Skylights From Hail?
Like the rest of the windows in your home, skylights are susceptible to storm damage. Because skylights face upward toward the sky (hence the name), they are, perhaps, even more vulnerable to hail damage than the windows on the sides of your home.
Hail can quickly damage or even shatter a window. If your skylights aren’t properly protected, this could lead to glass flying everywhere in your home—not a safe or fun situation for anyone. A broken window could then let water leak in, which would cause water damage and lead you to have to pay for costly water damage restoration.
Protecting your skylights before an intense storm capable of producing hail will keep you and your family safer and help you avoid expensive repairs for windows and water damage.
8 Tips for How to Protect Skylights From Hail
As hailstorms can be both unpredictable and destructive, it's essential to take proactive steps to safeguard your skylights. By preparing ahead of time, you can minimize potential damage and extend the lifespan of these valuable architectural assets. Consider trying some or all of the following tips to help your skylights evade hail damage.
Choose Impact-Resistant Materials
When installing or replacing skylights, opt for impact-resistant materials, such as tempered or laminated glass or polycarbonate panels. These materials are designed to withstand the force of hailstones and reduce the risk of the glass shattering upon impact.
Assess Skylight Placement
During the design phase, consider the location of your skylights. Placing them in areas less exposed to prevailing wind patterns and potential hail trajectories can reduce their vulnerability. Consulting with a professional can provide you with valuable insight into optimal placement.
Install Protective Screens or Grilles
Consider installing protective screens or grilles over your skylights. These mesh-like structures can act as a barrier, absorbing the impact of hailstones and preventing them from directly hitting the skylight surface.
Maintain Proper Roofing
A well-maintained roof can contribute to skylight protection. Ensure your roof is in good condition and regularly inspected for signs of wear or damage. A sturdy roof can help deflect or absorb the impact of hailstones before they reach the skylights and help you avoid pricey hail damage roof repairs.
Keep Surrounding Trees Trimmed
Overhanging branches and trees can increase the risk of hail damage to skylights. Keep trees trimmed to prevent branches from breaking and falling onto your skylights during a storm.
Consider Hail Protection Film
Hail protection film is a transparent adhesive film that can be applied to the exterior of skylights. This film helps disperse the force of hailstones and prevents them from directly hitting the skylight surface. It's an additional layer of defense against hail damage.
Regular Maintenance and Inspection
Frequently inspect your skylights for any cracks, leaks, or damage. Address any issues promptly to prevent further deterioration, especially before hail season arrives.
Prepare for Severe Weather
Keep an eye on weather forecasts, especially during hail-prone seasons. If a hailstorm is anticipated, consider covering your skylights temporarily with protective materials like plywood or heavy blankets.
Tips for Dealing With Hail Damage
If hail damage does occur to any skylights in your home, here are some tips that can help you deal with the damage.
Assess the damage: After a hailstorm, carefully examine the skylights for cracks, fractures, or other signs of damage. Take note of the extent of the damage and its location.
Document the damage: Take photographs of the damaged skylights from various angles. These photos will be useful for hail damage insurance claims and repair estimates.
Contact your insurance provider: If your skylights are covered by insurance, reach out to your insurance provider to report the damage and start the claims process. Provide them with the documentation and photos you've taken.
Create a temporary covering: If the damage is severe and you're concerned about leaks or further damage, consider placing temporary coverings over the skylights, such as tarps or heavy-duty plastic, until repairs can be made.
Schedule professional inspection: Arrange for a professional skylight specialist or contractor to inspect the damage. They can provide a thorough assessment and recommend appropriate repair or replacement options.
Obtain repair estimates: Get multiple repair estimates from reputable contractors. This will help you make an informed decision about the most suitable and cost-effective repair solution.
Consider safety: If the damage poses a safety hazard, especially if there's broken glass or compromised structural integrity, keep the area around the skylights closed off to prevent accidents.
Coordinate repairs: Once you've selected a contractor, coordinate the repair schedule and ensure that they have the necessary materials and expertise to carry out the repairs effectively.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Choosing between DIY and hiring a pro to shield skylights from hail hinges on your skill level and budget. DIY involves lower expenses as you buy and set up materials, but it demands time and aptitude, risking improper installation.
Calling in a professional skylight installer near you ensures correct setup, curbing leaks and damage threats. Professional costs fluctuate based on complexity and location, generally ranging from $300 to $1,500, including materials. For intricate installations, consider a roofing expert or skylight specialist to guarantee optimal results and lasting protection against hail impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
A skylight's ability to withstand hail depends on factors like material quality and thickness. Impact-resistant options, such as tempered or laminated glass, fare better against hail compared to standard glass. Proper installation and regular maintenance also contribute to their resilience. While smaller hailstones may not pose a significant threat, larger ones can cause damage. Consider skylight protection methods like covers or screens in hail-prone areas to enhance durability and minimize potential harm.
To cover a skylight from the inside, you can use various methods. Temporary options include thick blankets, blackout curtains, or foam insulation panels placed over the skylight during hailstorms or extreme weather. For a more permanent solution, install skylight shades or blinds designed to fit the specific dimensions. These can be easily operated to provide shade, insulation, and protection when needed. Remember to ensure proper installation and compatibility with your skylight type to maintain its functionality and effectiveness.