5 Signs Of Hail Damage Siding & Repair Tips

Hailstorms can be both unpredictable and damaging, leaving homeowners with a host of issues ranging from dented vehicles to damaged roofing—and, often, siding that can no longer protect their home effectively. If your home has recently weathered a hailstorm, you might be wondering:

• If your siding has been affected
• How to identify the damage
• What steps to take next

At Voyager Exteriors, we understand how overwhelming it can feel to deal with storm damage, especially when it comes to something as integral as your home’s siding. This blog post will walk you through everything you need to know about hail damage siding, so you can feel confident about protecting and maintaining your home.

Why Is Hail Damage to Siding a Concern?

Your siding plays a critical role in shielding your home from the elements. When hail strikes, the impact can lead to a variety of problems, each of which compromises your siding’s effectiveness. Here’s why addressing hail damage immediately is so important for homeowners:

• Structural Protection: Siding acts as a barrier against moisture, wind, and debris. Even small cracks caused by hail can lead to water infiltration, causing long-term problems like mold or structural rot.
• Energy Efficiency: Damaged siding may diminish your home’s insulation, leading to higher energy bills as your heating and cooling systems work harder.
• Curb Appeal and Property Value: Dents, cracks, or peeled paint caused by hail can make your home look worn down, which could lower your property value if left unaddressed.

By promptly identifying and addressing hail damage, you can save on potential repairs in the future and safeguard your home from additional complications.

5 Signs of Hail Damage on Siding

The way hail damage appears on siding can vary depending on factors like the size of the hailstones, the material of the siding, and the wind speed during the storm. However, certain telltale signs can help you zero in on potential damage.

1) Dents or Dings:

These are typically found on aluminum or steel siding. Even small hailstones can leave visible marks.

2) Cracks or Splits:

Hailstones hitting vinyl siding may cause it to crack, especially if the material is older or brittle.

3) Chipping or Paint Damage:

Hail can scrape off paint or cause chips in fiber cement or wood siding.

4) Holes or Punctures:

Severe hailstorms with larger hailstones may even create small holes, leaving your home exposed to the elements.

5) Discoloration or Scuff Marks:

Often seen on vinyl siding, hail can leave streaks or scuffs if it drags dirt or debris along with it.

Carefully inspect your siding after a hailstorm, paying close attention to all sides of your home—hail damage may not be evenly distributed, depending on the storm’s direction.

How to Inspect Your Siding for Hail Damage

You don’t have to be a professional to perform an initial siding inspection after a storm, but being systematic can help you spot potential issues that need professional attention. Here’s a step-by-step guide to inspecting for hail damage siding:

• Be Safe: Before inspecting, ensure the storm has completely passed. Use sturdy ladder equipment if necessary, or opt for binoculars to inspect hard-to-see areas.
• Examine All Sides: Walk around your home and inspect each side. Pay close attention to areas that faced directly into the wind and hail.
• Look for the Signs: Use the telltale signs of hail damage mentioned above—cracks, dents, discoloration, or holes—to identify any problem areas.
• Check Surrounding Areas: If your siding has hail damage, your roof, windows, and gutters may be affected too. Inspect them as part of your post-storm assessment.
• Document the Damage: Take detailed photos of any visible damage. This will be useful for insurance claims and when consulting with contractors.

If you’re unsure about the extent of the damage or don’t feel comfortable performing the inspection yourself, you can always contact the experts at Voyager Exteriors for a thorough assessment.

Common Siding Materials and Their Vulnerability to Hail

Siding materials vary in durability, and hail affects them differently. Here’s how different types respond to hail impacts:

• Vinyl Siding: Cost-effective and popular, vinyl siding is prone to cracks, splitting, and chipping when hit by large hailstones.
• Wood Siding: While wood siding is stylish and versatile, it can dent or develop surface damage, which may require refinishing or replacement.
• Aluminum or Steel Siding: Known for its durability, metal siding handles hail better than other materials but can still show dents and scratches.
• Fiber Cement Siding: One of the most durable options, this material is relatively resistant to hail damage but may still chip or crack under certain conditions.

If you’re considering replacing your siding, it’s worth consulting with professionals to choose materials that stand up better to hailstorms in your area.

Steps to Take After Discovering Hail Damage

Discovering hail damage to your siding can feel daunting, but with the right plan of action, you can get your home back in top condition quickly.

📸 Document the Damage

Take clear, well-lit photos of any affected areas and make a list of the damages to provide to your insurance company and contractor.

☎️ Contact Your Insurance Provider

Hail damage is often covered by homeowner’s insurance, so notify your provider as soon as possible. Provide them with your documentation and follow their claims process.

🗓️vSchedule a Professional Inspection

While visible damage is easy to spot, hidden issues like water infiltration or structural problems often require a trained eye. A professional inspection ensures nothing is missed.

👷🏼‍♂️ Choose a Trusted Contractor for Repairs

It’s important to work with experienced contractors like Voyager Exteriors who specialize in hail damage siding repair and replacement. Our team can ensure your home regains its full protection and aesthetic appeal.

Preventing Hail Damage in the Future

While you can’t stop the next hailstorm, there are steps you can take to minimize hail damage to your siding in the future:

• Invest in Impact-Resistant Siding: Upgrade to materials like fiber cement or metal siding that are more resistant to hail impact.
• Install Storm Shutters: Protect siding near windows by adding storm shutters, which also shield against windblown debris.
• Perform Regular Maintenance: Keep your siding well-maintained, as older or brittle siding is more susceptible to damage.
• Trim Nearby Trees: Remove overhanging branches that could cause additional damage during a storm.

By taking these precautions, you can protect your home and reduce the chances of extensive damage.

Trust Voyager Exteriors to Repair Your Hail-Damaged Siding

When it comes to siding, we know what matters most to homeowners. At Voyager Exteriors, our team is here to help you through every step of identifying, scheduling, and repairing hail damage.

If you’re worried about your siding after a hailstorm, don’t wait—contact us for a free inspection today. With our expertise and commitment to quality, we’ll make sure your home is prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.Schedule Your Free Consultation and take the first step toward restoring your peace of mind!