What to Do if Your Garage Door Gets Hail Damage
In Texas, spring and early summer often bring powerful storms, and with them, the potential for damaging hail. One of the most commonly overlooked casualties of hailstorms is your garage door. Since it’s one of the largest and most exposed surfaces on your home, it’s especially vulnerable to dings, dents, and functional issues when hail strikes. If you’ve recently experienced a severe storm and are wondering what to do about garage door hail damage, this guide is for you.
How Hail Damages Garage Doors
Hail damage on garage doors can vary depending on the size of the hail, the wind speed, and the material of your garage door. Steel and aluminum doors are particularly prone to dents, while wooden doors may suffer from cracked or chipped paint and panels.
Some common signs of garage door hail damage include:
- Noticeable dents or warping on panels
- Chipped or cracked paint
- Damage to insulation or internal panel layers
- Misaligned tracks or rollers due to impact
- Issues with opening and closing the door properly
While some of this damage may seem cosmetic at first, it can lead to bigger issues down the line, including poor insulation, compromised security, and even mechanical failure.
Step-by-Step: What to Do If You Spot Hail Damage
1. Inspect the Door Safely
Once the storm has passed and it’s safe to go outside, do a visual inspection of your garage door. Check for dents, cracks, or any unusual noises or resistance when opening or closing the door.
2. Take Photos for Insurance
If you see visible damage, take clear photos from multiple angles. These will be useful for insurance claims, especially if your home insurance policy covers storm-related damages.
3. Check for Operational Issues
Even if the damage appears superficial, try opening and closing your garage door manually and with the opener. If it sticks, groans, or doesn’t function normally, there may be internal issues that require professional attention.
4. Avoid DIY Fixes
Trying to fix hail damage on your own can make the problem worse or even lead to injury. Garage doors are heavy and under high tension—leave repairs to trained professionals.
5. Contact Helotes Overhead Garage Doors
When it comes to garage door hail damage, acting quickly can prevent minor cosmetic issues from turning into major mechanical problems. That’s where we come in.
Why Choose Helotes Overhead Garage Doors?
At Helotes Overhead Garage Doors, we’ve been serving the Helotes and Northwest San Antonio communities since 1985. Our family-owned company understands the impact Texas weather can have on garage doors, and we specialize in fast, honest, and reliable hail damage repairs.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Free Estimates: We’ll assess the damage and provide you with an honest quote so you know exactly what to expect.
- Expert Repairs: From dent removal and panel replacement to full door upgrades, our team has the tools and experience to do the job right.
- Insurance-Friendly: We’re happy to work with your insurance provider to ensure a smooth claim process.
- Quality Materials: We only use high-quality replacement parts and doors built to withstand Texas weather.
Should You Repair or Replace Your Garage Door?
Whether to repair or replace depends on the extent of the damage. Minor dents and cosmetic blemishes may be fixed with panel replacement or dent repair. However, if the structural integrity is compromised or if multiple panels are affected, a full replacement might be more cost-effective in the long run.
We’ll walk you through your options and help you make the decision that’s best for your home and your budget.
Preventing Future Hail Damage
While you can’t stop Mother Nature, there are a few steps you can take to minimize damage in the future:
- Install a garage door made from durable, impact-resistant materials
- Consider wind-rated doors that meet Texas building codes
- Schedule regular maintenance to keep your door functioning smoothly
- Clear away debris and ensure good drainage around your garage
Need Help with Garage Door Hail Damage? Contact Us Today
If your garage door took a beating during the recent hailstorm, don’t wait until small issues become big problems. Reach out to the professionals at Helotes Overhead Garage Doors today. We’re your trusted local experts for all things garage door repair and replacement.
Visit our About Us page to learn more about our history and commitment to quality service, or contact us to schedule your free estimate.
Protect your home, your vehicles, and your peace of mind—get professional help for your garage door hail damage now.
