Hail may not be the first weather concern that comes to mind in Florida, but it’s more common, and more damaging, than many homeowners realize. While hurricanes often dominate seasonal headlines, even a brief hailstorm can crack windows, dent doors, and compromise your home’s energy efficiency. That’s why it’s crucial to know how to assess and respond to hail damage to windows and doors, and to understand why upgrading to impact protection is one of the smartest decisions you can make as a Florida homeowner.
Assessing Hail Damage: What to Look For After The Storm
After a hailstorm passes, it’s important to act quickly. Delayed repairs can lead to leaks, drafts, and further structural issues. Begin with a visual inspection of your home’s exterior, especially around windows and entry points.
Signs of window damage from hail may include:
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Cracked or shattered glass
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Chips or divots in the glass surface
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Warping or dents in the window frame
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Broken seals leading to foggy panes
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Drafts or air leaks around the edges
Similarly, door hail damage may show up as:
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Dents in metal or fiberglass doors
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Cracked trim or frame materials
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Warped weatherstripping or misaligned locks
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Difficulty opening or closing the door properly
If you’re wondering: “Can hail break windows?” Yes, even relatively small hail can cause glass fractures or structural compromise, especially in older single-pane or non-reinforced windows.
Document the Damage for Insurance
Once you’ve completed your inspection, take clear photos of every damaged area. Include close-up shots as well as wider angles that show location context. If possible, check for additional damage to surrounding siding, roofing, or gutters. This documentation will be essential if you plan to file a homeowners insurance claim.
Be sure to review your policy, then contact your insurance provider to begin the claim process. The insurer will likely send an adjuster to verify the damage. It’s helpful to have a professional window and door specialist present during this walkthrough to ensure that all issues are accurately identified and logged.
Temporary Protection While You Wait
Insurance claims and contractor scheduling can take time, so protecting your home in the meantime is key. Board up shattered windows with plywood, seal cracked glass with heavy-duty plastic sheeting or tarp, and tape over exposed seams where water could seep in. Even minor water intrusion can lead to mold or structural deterioration.
If you have older windows or standard doors, you may notice that damage goes beyond what’s immediately visible. Hidden frame compromise and failed seals are common, which is another reason professional evaluation matters.
Why Impact Protection Makes a Difference
Rather than simply replacing damaged materials with the same outdated products, many Florida homeowners are turn to impact windows and doors as a proactive upgrade.
Impact-rated products are designed to withstand extreme weather, including hail, windborne debris, and pressure changes during storms. These solutions use multi-layered, laminated glass combined with reinforced frames to protect your home from both physical damage and energy loss.
Installing impact windows can reduce the chance of future damage while improving insulation, noise reduction, and security. For entryways, impact doors offer the same level of protection without sacrificing curb appeal.
Are Hurricane Windows Enough for Hail?
Some Florida residents already have hurricane windows in place, but wonder whether they hold up against hail. The answer is yes—hurricane-rated windows are typically tested for both wind and impact, including small missile projectiles that simulate flying debris and hailstones.
Still, not all storm windows are created equal. When evaluating replacements, refer to standards like ASTM E1996 or Miami-Dade compliance to ensure you’re getting full-spectrum protection.
Choosing the Right Replacement Windows and Doors
Once your claim is approved and you’re ready to move forward, work with a trusted Florida-based contractor that specializes in severe weather upgrades. FHIA Remodeling offers insulated glass windows that not only improve energy performance but also provide greater durability against unpredictable weather.
For front entrances, it may also be time to consider a full front door replacement—especially if your current unit is warped or outdated. A reinforced, weather-sealed option will hold up better in future storms and reduce maintenance needs long-term.
How to Protect Windows from Hail in the Future
If you’re not ready to replace your windows and doors right away, there are still a few steps you can take:
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Install storm shutters or panels during hail season
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Keep trees trimmed to avoid branch damage
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Inspect seals and caulking annually for weakness
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Upgrade to multi-pane glass where possible
But the most effective, long-term solution? Upgrading to professionally installed impact products.
Know When to Act
Hail damage often goes unnoticed until energy bills spike or moisture problems appear. Don’t wait for signs of deeper deterioration. If your home was recently hit, or if you’re seeing symptoms now, it’s time to act.
You can explore all of FHIA’s available windows and doors, or dive into types and styles to find the right match for your needs.
FHIA has also covered key storm-readiness questions in:
Ready to Upgrade?
If hail has already impacted your home, or if you’re ready to make the switch to better protection, we’re here to help. Get peace of mind and protection that lasts and reach out today to schedule your free quote.
Contact FHIA Remodeling to get started.
