Well, it’s that time of year again. The bluebonnets are blooming, the sun is shining, and any minute now, the sky’s going to crack open and start throwing ice chunks the size of baseballs at us. That’s springtime in North Texas—where one minute you’re enjoying a barbecue, and the next, you’re watching your neighbor’s trampoline fly over your fence.
Hailstorms aren’t just an inconvenience; they’re Mother Nature’s way of reminding you who’s boss. And if you’re not prepared, she’ll make sure you pay for it—literally. So, let’s talk about how to keep your car, your home, and your wallet from getting battered this hail season.
Your Car: A Sitting Duck
If you’ve ever walked out to find your car looking like a golf ball with dimples, you already know how brutal Texas hailstorms can be. Here’s how to avoid a repeat experience:
- Use Covered Parking – This one’s a no-brainer. A garage, carport, or even a sturdy overhang can save you thousands in repair costs.
- Hail Covers or Thick Blankets – If covered parking isn’t an option, get a hail cover for your car. In a pinch, thick blankets, floor mats, or even a cheap air mattress can provide a buffer.
- Watch the Forecast – Texas weather changes faster than a politician’s promise, but keeping an eye on the radar gives you a chance to move your car to safety before the sky starts spitting ice.
- Comprehensive Insurance – If all else fails and your car gets pelted, comprehensive coverage is your best friend. It covers hail damage, but make sure your deductible won’t leave you in tears.
Your Home: A Bigger Target
Your house might not have to be towed to a body shop after a hailstorm, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe. Those ice missiles can wreck your roof, smash windows, and turn your siding into Swiss cheese. Here’s how to fight back:
- Roof Inspection & Impact-Resistant Shingles – If your roof is older than the last Cowboys Super Bowl win (ouch), it’s time to check for weak spots. Impact-resistant shingles can take a beating and save you on insurance premiums.
- Storm Shutters & Window Protection – A baseball-sized hailstone through your living room window is a home renovation nobody wants. Storm shutters, reinforced glass, or even just pulling your blinds down can minimize damage.
- Secure Outdoor Items – If it’s not bolted down, it’s going airborne. Patio furniture, grills, potted plants—secure them or bring them inside. Otherwise, you might find your lawn chairs in the next county.
- Review Your Home Insurance Policy – Not all policies cover hail damage the same way. Check your deductible, understand what’s covered, and if you’re not sure, call your friendly neighborhood insurance agent (hint: that’s us).
After the Storm: What Now?
If you do take a hit, don’t panic—but don’t wait, either.
- Document the Damage – Take photos of everything. Your insurance company will want proof before they cut you a check.
- Make Temporary Repairs – Cover broken windows, put a tarp over roof damage, and prevent further water intrusion.
- Call Your Insurance Agent – If you’ve got the right coverage, we’ll help you get everything sorted quickly.
- Beware of Storm Chasers – And we don’t mean the ones on The Weather Channel. Scammers posing as contractors love to swoop in after a storm. Stick with licensed, local professionals.
Final Thoughts
Hail season in North Texas isn’t for the faint of heart, but a little preparation can go a long way. Whether it’s your car, your home, or your sanity, a solid insurance policy can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and a financial disaster.
So, batten down the hatches, keep an eye on the sky, and if you need help making sure you’re covered, give Bluebonnet Insurance Solutions a call. We can’t stop the hail, but we can make sure it doesn’t wreck your bank account.
Stay safe, Texas. And keep your car out of the war zone.
