How to Prepare for Hail During Iowa’s Storm Season

If you’re in Iowa and wondering how to prepare for hail, here’s your quick action plan to stay safe and minimize damage when storm season hits:

Scroll down for full details on how to prepare and protect your home, vehicle, and family this storm season.

Hailstorms are a frequent and significant concern for Iowa residents, particularly during the spring and summer months.

According to the National Weather Service, Iowa experiences numerous hail events annually, with some storms producing hailstones large enough to cause substantial property damage.

The state’s geographical location contributes to its vulnerability, as it sits in a region where warm, humid air from the Gulf of Mexico frequently collides with cooler air masses from the north.

This convergence often results in severe thunderstorms capable of producing large hail.

The impact of hailstorms can be extensive, affecting roofs, siding, windows, and vehicles. Given the potential for significant damage, it’s crucial for Iowa homeowners to understand the risks and take proactive measures to protect their property.

You don’t need a full home renovation to get ahead of hail season—just a few smart steps this week can go a long way when you’re learning how to prepare for hailstorms effectively.

Start by downloading a reliable weather app like NOAA Weather Radar Live or enabling alerts from your local news station. In Iowa, storms can develop fast—getting real-time warnings gives you the chance to act before hail hits.

Clogged gutters can overfill and cause water damage when heavy rain accompanies a hailstorm. A quick cleaning ensures that water flows where it should, not into your home’s foundation or roofline.

Look for lifted, cracked, or missing shingles from the ground using binoculars if needed. If anything looks questionable, now’s the time to schedule a roof inspection—before minor issues become major after a storm.

Patio chairs, grills, planters—hail and strong winds can turn these into flying hazards. Move them into a shed or garage, or at least anchor them down and cover them with a tarp.

If you have a garage or carport, use it. If not, consider temporary car shelters or even parking near a sturdy structure for protection. Vehicles left in the open are some of the first to take hail damage.

This simple habit helps prevent broken glass from spraying inward if a window shatters. It’s quick, free, and adds a layer of protection you’ll be glad to have.

Taking even a few of these steps now can save you thousands in damage later—and bring serious peace of mind when the sky turns dark.

Some hailstorms leave nothing more than a few dings. Others? They leave you with a roof leak, shattered siding, or thousands in repairs—reminding homeowners why it’s essential to learn how to prevent hail damage before the storm season begins.

While quick fixes are great for this week’s forecast, long-term protection starts with smart home upgrades that pay off for years to come.

If you’re planning ahead, here are a few high-impact improvements worth considering:

Standard asphalt shingles can crack or tear under heavy hail. Impact-resistant shingles, often rated Class 3 or 4, are designed to take the hit—literally.

While the upfront cost is a bit higher, they can lower insurance premiums and help you avoid costly replacements after every major storm.

Vinyl siding may look nice, but it’s vulnerable to cracking under pressure.

Fiber cement or engineered wood alternatives are much better at withstanding hail and wind—especially in exposed areas of your home.

Consider storm shutters or polycarbonate window covers, especially on west- or south-facing windows that typically bear the brunt of incoming storms.

These can prevent costly glass breakage and keep your home more secure when weather turns severe.

Hailstorms don’t just bring ice—they often bring heavy rain and debris, which can clog gutters and cause overflow.

Gutter guards keep your drainage system clear and reduce the risk of water damage to your foundation and fascia.

Good ventilation helps regulate attic temperature and moisture, reducing long-term wear on your roof structure.

During hail season, this means your roof will be stronger, drier, and less likely to develop problems after impact.

Hailstorms in Iowa don’t give much warning—and once they start, it’s too late to protect what matters most. A few minutes of ice can leave you with thousands in roof repairs, shattered windows, or a totaled vehicle.

But with the right preparation, you can stay ahead of the damage.

So, don’t wait for the next siren to wonder if your roof is ready.

If you’re not sure whether your roof or gutters are up to the task, JB Roofing & Gutters is here to help.

We proudly serve homeowners across Ankeny, Des Moines, and the surrounding areas with expert inspections, repairs, and replacements—so you’re not left guessing when hail hits. Let’s make sure your home is ready before the next storm arrives.

Joe Burkhart, the driving force behind JB Roofing, has been a trusted roofing expert in Ankeny, IA, since 2006. Joe’s passion for quality craftsmanship and personalized service comes from over 20 years of hands-on experience, starting his journey in the roofing industry back in the early 1990s. JB Roofing is more than just a business to Joe—it’s a reflection of his commitment to providing reliable, long-lasting roofs that protect homes and families across Iowa.