What precautions should I take before a hailstorm hits?

Preparing Your Roof and Solar Panels

Before a hailstorm hits, inspect your roof for any loose or missing shingles, and repair or replace them as needed. Ensure that your solar panels are securely fastened to the roof with screws and clips, following the manufacturer’s recommendations. For example, the International Building Code recommends that solar panels be attached to the roof with a minimum of two screws per panel for panels up to 40 pounds and one screw per 20 pounds of panel weight above that threshold.

Protecting Your Electronics and Windows

Cover or bring in sensitive electronics, such as computers and televisions, to prevent damage from power surges or hail impact. Trim tree branches to minimize the risk of damage from falling branches. Consider installing hail-resistant glazing on windows and skylights, which can be designed to withstand impacts from hailstones up to 1 inch in diameter. For example, impact-resistant windows can be made with layers of glass, polycarbonate, or acrylic that are designed to absorb and distribute the force of the impact.

Preparing Your Wind Turbines

If you have wind turbines, consider securing them to the ground or to a reinforced foundation to prevent damage from strong winds and hail. Trim tree branches to minimize the risk of damage from falling branches. Consider installing a wind turbine with a hail-resistant design, such as one with a stainless steel or aluminum blade that can withstand impacts from hailstones up to 1 inch in diameter.