How to Handle Hail Damage on Your Windows and Doors

Hailstorms can be a homeowner's worst nightmare, causing significant damage to property. Hail comes in all sizes, but many don’t realize it only takes a quarter-inch-sized piece to cause damage. That’s about the size of a pea. In fact, hail causes billions of dollars in damage to crops and property each year and is one of the most common causes of home insurance claims. According to a March 2023 analysis by State Farm, the company paid out over $3.5 billion in hail claims in 2022. While the roof, siding and vehicles are often the focus of post-storm assessments, windows and doors are equally vulnerable to hail damage. In this article, let’s discuss how to identify and handle hail damage on your windows and doors.

After a hailstorm, the first step is to carefully inspect your windows and doors for any signs of damage. Look for cracks, dents or shattered glass. Damaged frames and seals should also be on your radar. Keep in mind that hail damage isn't always immediately visible. Watch for water leakage or drafts around your windows and doors, as these can be indicators of hidden damage and signs your windows need replaced. Even minor damage can lead to drafts, fogging and material deterioration, all of which can increase home energy costs. With that said, it’s very important that your home is thoroughly inspected for damage and any issues found are quickly repaired. If your windows or doors are broken, consider temporary fixes like boarding up broken windows to prevent further damage. Seal any gaps that may be letting in moisture, especially if you're waiting for professional repairs.

An inspection is required if you plan to make an insurance claim and receive money to help cover the cost of replacement windows and doors. Hire a professional contractor or window and door specialist to assess the extent of the damage. They can provide a detailed report on what repairs or replacements are needed. Pella offers free in-home consultations and can inspect your products for damage, even if you don’t currently own Pella windows or doors. One of our experts will come to your home, evaluate damage to your windows and doors, take clear photos of any damage, answer questions you have and give you a repair or replacement quote on the spot. If we do find hail damage to your windows or doors, we will provide the necessary documentation for filing an insurance claim and work with the adjuster who will inspect your home.

If hail damage is found in the inspection, your next step is to file a claim with your insurance company. Contact your insurance agent or visit your insurance company’s website to file a claim online. They should be able to give you details about your homeowner's policy and any coverage you may have. When filing the claim, provide them with photos of the damage and any relevant information about the storm's severity. Your insurance company may send out their own insurance adjuster to perform an inspection and verify the damage. We recommend accompanying them during the inspection to ensure nothing is overlooked. Your Pella representative can also submit a detailed quote outlining the needed repairs or replacements on your behalf.

Keep in mind that when a storm occurs, many homeowners in your area are also filing insurance claims. After you file your claim, it may take weeks to process it and get to a point where insurance allows you to actually replace your damaged windows and doors.

Depending on the severity of the damage, replacement might be necessary. Work closely with your insurance company to determine the coverage and choose replacement options that suit your needs. Once your claim for hail damage is approved and processed, you’ll get a check from your insurance company. Depending on their policies, it may be made out to you individually or to you and your mortgage lender. If both you and your lender are on the check, you’ll have to send it to them and file some additional paperwork before work can begin on your home.

After you secure and deposit your claim check, Pella will coordinate with you to find the best time to get to work repairing or replacing your hail-damaged windows or doors. Our team of experienced window and door professionals understands that dealing with the aftermath of severe weather can be stressful. Let us do the hard part, so you can get back to enjoying functioning windows and doors as soon as possible.