Summer Storm Damage: Hailstones Cause Havoc On Pools And Lawns

Aria Freeman

6 min read

Post on May 12, 2025

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Hailstone Damage to Swimming Pools

Summer storms often bring with them the destructive force of hail, leaving their mark on our precious swimming pools. The impact of large hailstones can cause significant damage, impacting both the aesthetics and functionality of your pool.

Structural Damage

Large hailstones can inflict considerable structural damage to your pool. The impact force can crack pool liners, shatter tiles, damage coping stones, and even dislodge pool equipment.

• Cracks in the liner: Hailstones can easily puncture or tear vinyl or fiberglass pool liners, requiring costly repairs or even complete replacement.
• Broken tiles: Tile surrounding the pool can be chipped or completely dislodged, creating unsightly gaps and potentially compromising the pool's structural integrity.
• Damaged coping: The coping stones around the perimeter of the pool, which protect the edges, are vulnerable to cracking and chipping from hail impact.
• Dislodged equipment: The force of the hailstones can dislodge or damage pool pumps, filters, and other vital equipment.

Repairing this type of hail damage can be expensive, depending on the extent of the damage and the need for professional repair or replacement.

Water Contamination

Beyond structural damage, hailstorms can contaminate your pool water. The hail itself carries dirt, debris, leaves, and potentially harmful substances that can significantly alter the water chemistry.

• Increased debris load: Hailstorms dramatically increase the amount of debris in your pool water, requiring intensive cleaning.
• Need for thorough cleaning and chemical adjustments: After a hailstorm, you'll need to thoroughly clean your pool and adjust the chemical balance to maintain safe and healthy swimming conditions.
• Potential for algae growth: The influx of debris and altered water chemistry can create ideal conditions for algae growth, requiring prompt treatment to prevent a bloom.

Thorough water testing is crucial after a hailstorm to determine the necessary treatment procedures.

Pool Cover Damage

Pool covers offer protection from debris and evaporation, but they're also vulnerable to hailstorm damage.

• Torn fabric: Hail can tear the fabric of your pool cover, leading to potential water loss and further damage to your pool.
• Puncture holes: The impact of large hailstones can create numerous puncture holes, compromising the cover's functionality.
• Need for replacement or repair: Depending on the extent of the damage, your pool cover may need repair or complete replacement.

Consider investing in stronger, more hail-resistant pool covers to mitigate damage in future hailstorms.

Hailstone Damage to Lawns

The impact of hail isn't limited to swimming pools; your lawn and garden can also suffer significant damage during a summer hailstorm.

Physical Damage to Grass Blades

Hailstones can physically bruise and tear grass blades, leaving your once-lush lawn looking brown and damaged.

• Brown spots: Hail impact can cause numerous brown spots to appear across your lawn.
• Shredded grass: Large hailstones can shred grass blades, leaving them looking ragged and unhealthy.
• Overall lawn discoloration: The cumulative effect of hail damage results in an overall discoloration and unhealthy appearance of your lawn.

This type of damage affects the aesthetic appeal of your lawn and can impact its overall health.

Damage to Plants and Shrubs

Delicate plants and shrubs are particularly vulnerable to hail damage.

• Bruised leaves: Hail can bruise and damage the leaves of plants, impacting their photosynthetic ability.
• Broken branches: Large hailstones can break branches, potentially leading to the death of the plant.
• Potential for plant death: Severe hail damage can cause significant stress to plants, sometimes leading to their death.

Consider using protective measures such as netting to shield vulnerable plants from hailstorms.

Soil Compaction

Large hail can compact the soil, affecting its drainage and impacting root growth.

• Reduced water infiltration: Compacted soil prevents water from properly penetrating the ground, leading to dry spells and stress on plants.
• Impaired root system: Compacted soil hinders root growth, preventing plants from accessing necessary nutrients and water.
• Increased risk of disease: Poor drainage in compacted soil can increase the risk of root diseases.

After a hailstorm, aerating the soil can help to improve drainage and root growth.

Assessing and Repairing Hail Damage

Dealing with the aftermath of a hailstorm requires prompt action to minimize the long-term consequences.

Insurance Claims

Documenting the hail damage is crucial for insurance claims.

• Detailed photographic evidence: Take numerous photos and videos of the damage to your pool and lawn.
• Thorough assessment report: Create a detailed report outlining the extent of the damage.
• Contacting insurance providers promptly: Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to initiate the claims process.

Professional Help

For significant damage, it's essential to engage qualified professionals.

• Pool contractors for structural repairs and liner replacement: Pool contractors have the expertise to repair structural damage and replace pool liners.
• Landscaping professionals for lawn care and plant rehabilitation: Landscaping professionals can help you assess and repair damage to your lawn and plants.

Preventative Measures

Preparing for future hailstorms can significantly reduce potential damage.

• Secure pool covers: Invest in strong, secure pool covers to protect your pool from hail damage.
• Protect vulnerable plants: Take steps to protect vulnerable plants during a hailstorm by moving them to a sheltered location or using protective coverings.
• Consider hail netting for particularly valuable plants: Hail netting can provide a strong layer of protection for particularly valuable plants.

Conclusion

Summer storm damage, specifically hailstorm damage, can cause significant and costly damage to both pools and lawns. From cracked pool liners and damaged coping stones to shredded grass and bruised plants, the impact of hail can be extensive. This article highlighted the various ways hail affects these outdoor spaces, along with steps for assessing damage, filing insurance claims, and engaging professionals for repairs. Don't let summer storm damage ruin your enjoyment of your outdoor spaces. Protect your investment and prepare for the next hailstorm by taking the preventative measures mentioned above. If you've already experienced the devastation of summer storm damage from hail, contact qualified professionals to assess and repair the damage promptly. Remember, proactive measures and prompt action are key to minimizing the long-term effects of hailstorm damage on your property.