The short answer
How Hail Damages Skylight Materials
Hail impacts can cause different types of damage. Tempered glass is strong but can still crack under a direct, forceful hit. Plastic or acrylic domes may become pitted or develop stress fractures. The metal or vinyl frame can also dent or bend, breaking the crucial waterproof seal. This seal failure is a common cause of leaks after a storm. The size and speed of the hailstones are major factors in the severity of the damage.
Immediate Signs of Skylight Hail Damage
Look for obvious cracks, holes, or missing pieces in the skylight pane from the inside. You might also see new condensation or fogging trapped between the panes of a double-glazed unit, which indicates a broken seal. From outside, check for dents on metal flashing or cracks in the surrounding roofing shingles. Any visible damage means water can get in, so you need to act.
The Risk of Water Leaks and Interior Damage
A compromised skylight is a direct path for water into your home. Leaks can stain ceilings and walls, damage insulation, and warp wooden framing. Persistent moisture behind drywall or in attic spaces creates perfect conditions for mold growth within 24 to 48 hours. This secondary damage is often more costly to repair than the skylight itself, making a quick inspection vital after a storm.
What to Do After a Hailstorm
First, safely check for visible damage from inside your home. If you see light through a new crack or water dripping, place a bucket underneath and move belongings. Contact a qualified roofer or skylight installer for an assessment. Document the damage with clear photos for a potential insurance claim. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Taking photos from multiple angles helps create a good record.
Preventing Future Hail Damage
While you cannot prevent hail, you can choose more resilient skylights. Impact-resistant laminated glass or polycarbonate plastic domes offer better protection than standard acrylic. Ensure professional installation with robust, sealed flashing. Regular roof maintenance keeps the surrounding area secure. After a severe storm season, having a roofer inspect all penetrations, including skylights, can catch small issues before they leak.
- For new installations, materials with impact resistance, like laminated glass, can offer better durability.
- Ensure flashing is properly installed and sealed to the roof deck.
- Keep overhanging tree branches trimmed to reduce falling debris risk.
- Inspect the skylight and surrounding shingles at least twice a year.
- Know your roof's age, as older materials are more brittle and vulnerable.
- Clean the skylight surface regularly to check for subtle cracks or pits.
Water damage does not wait
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
Can a small hail crack in a skylight be repaired?
Sometimes a small crack can be sealed with a special epoxy by a professional to prevent leaks temporarily. However, the structural integrity is often compromised, and full replacement of the glazing or the entire unit is usually the safer, long-term solution to prevent future water intrusion.
Does homeowners insurance cover hail damage to a skylight?
Most standard homeowners policies cover sudden, accidental damage from events like hail. This often includes the skylight and resulting interior water damage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. You must pay your deductible. Coverage depends on your specific policy terms.
How long do I have to file an insurance claim for hail damage?
Most policies require you to file a claim promptly after discovering the damage. There is often a time limit, such as one year from the date of the storm event. Check your policy documents for specific reporting deadlines and contact your insurance company as soon as possible to start the process.