Siding

While designed to weather the elements, a severe storm can lead to wind or hail damage on siding. It’s important for homeowners to be able to identify siding damage, so you can quickly restore your home’s privacy, safety, and comfort. If left untreated, water can seep in and cause larger problems.

A storm can inflict different types of damage on your home’s siding depending on the material. For example, wind or hail damage on vinyl siding can cause chipping or holes while aluminum or other metal sidings are more likely to experience dents.

Meanwhile, wood siding can be cracked and warped due to severe rainstorms. This could lead to mold and rot if the wood is untreated.

If you notice wind or hail damage on your siding that appears to be merely cosmetic, be mindful this could be a point for moisture damage beneath the siding. Some damage might also be difficult to spot from the ground (especially in a multi-story home).

Signs of Siding Damage

As noted above, there are several common types of siding storm damage. If your home features vinyl or wood siding, be on the lookout for:

• Cracking: Splits or cracks typically run parallel to the siding, often between the valley and ridges of the panel.
• Chipping: A small piece of siding that has broken off, typically at or near the bottom of a siding panel ridge. That’s where the panel is unable to absorb impact. 
• Peeling: If you notice paint peeling away from siding, this could be a sign of underlying moisture damage caused by a storm.
• Breaking and holes: During severe storms, wind or hail damage to the siding can cause holes or breaks. If your siding is broken or has holes in it, then it is no longer protecting your home from the elements and should be replaced as soon as possible to limit further damage.