Palm Beach Gardens Living - September 2025

14 PA L M B E A C H G A R D E N S L I V I N G | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 5 – By John Carr – I f you grew up here in South Florida like me, it was very rare that you witnessed a hailstorm. So, in 2014 when a large hailstorm came across Martin County, I was shocked by all the damage it did to the property in the area. We are seeing more hailstorms in our area in recent years. Hail is precipitation that is formed when updrafts in thunderstorms carry raindrops upward into extremely cold areas of the atmosphere. Once the hailstones become heavy enough to overcome this column of rising air, they fall to the ground. Hail can damage aircraft, buildings, homes and cars, and can be deadly to livestock and people. The most important thing to do is to protect yourself during a hailstorm and take shelter. Most hailstorms will last less than 15 minutes. Hail can range in size from a pea to as large as a grapefruit. In New Smyrna Beach in 2022 we witnessed damage from softball size hail that caused millions of dollars’ worth of damage to buildings. If your property or association has been hit by a hailstorm, make sure you have a Certified Inspector perform a full property assessment for you. This assessment should include a report for you that would show any damage. This is very important. You should reach out and find a HAAG Certified Inspector trained in identifying damage. If you have damage and you have an insurance company come out you should still call your own expert to represent you. I have represented numerous building owners, homeowners, and condo associations and have been able to assist them in making sure that the insurance company was made aware of all the damages. There is nothing wrong with getting a second opinion and hiring your own expert. Hail damage sometimes can take longer to show up. For example, if hail damaged your shingle or tile roof just enough to create a pinhole it may take months for the water to work its way into your home. If a metal roof was damaged by hail and a seam was bent it also may take a long time for the water to travel. However, over time it will continue to damage your decking and other parts of your property without you even knowing it. When it comes to the exterior, if the hail doesn’t outright break a window but does break a seal, once again, over time you are going to have a problem. Stucco damage, fascia damage, garage door damage, I think you get the idea. You may think it is just a dent, but is it? That is why you need a trained expert to evaluate the property. However, here is your fair warning, make sure you use trained inspectors and make them show you their credentials. Unfortunately, there are too many people out there trying to take advantage of people during or after a storm. The key to avoiding this is to have relationships with roofing contractors, inspectors, general contractors, and experts prior to storm season. At Roofing & Restoration of Florida, we have a team of experts to help you be at ease during a disaster. Call today for a free property assessment. 561-557-6048. The Dangers and Hidden Damage of Hail COMMUNITY