The short answer
Inspect for Dents and Cracks
Start by walking around your home and looking at the siding from a few feet away. Hail impacts often leave round, shallow dents that are easier to see in the right light. Run your hand over the surface to feel for rough spots or depressions. On vinyl siding, you might notice cracks that spread from the impact point, sometimes appearing as small splits or fractures.
On wood siding, hail can cause splintering or create small holes that expose the wood underneath. On fiber cement, look for chipped edges or surface fractures. These physical marks are the most obvious signs of hail damage. Even if the damage looks minor, it can allow moisture to get behind the siding and cause problems later.
- Round dents or dimples on the siding surface
- Cracks that start at a single point and spread outward
- Splits or splintering on wood siding
- Chipped or flaking paint in a localized area
- Missing chunks or pieces of siding
- Visible exposed material under the siding
Look for Impact Patterns
Hail often strikes one side of a house more than others, depending on the storm's direction. Check the siding on the side that faces the storm, which is usually the west or south side in many areas, but it varies. You might see a cluster of dents or marks that follow a line or a scattered pattern. This grouping is a strong clue that hail, not another cause, did the damage.
Compare the siding on different sides of your home. If one side shows repeated impacts while others look clean, that points to a hail event. Also, check other parts of your home, like gutters, roof shingles, or window screens, for similar damage. Consistent marks across these surfaces help confirm that hail is the culprit.
Check for Water Intrusion
After a hailstorm, water can sneak behind damaged siding and cause rot, mold, or leaks. Look for stains on interior walls, peeling paint, or a musty smell near windows and doors. Check the attic for damp insulation or water spots on the ceiling. Any of these signs suggest that hail damage has already let moisture in.
If you find water stains or suspect water intrusion, act quickly to dry the area and prevent further harm. Move furniture away from wet walls and use fans or dehumidifiers if you can. A water damage inspection can help you understand how far the moisture has spread and what repairs are needed.
Document What You See
Take clear photos of every dent, crack, or mark you find on your siding. Capture the whole wall and then close-ups of each damaged spot. Note the date you noticed the damage and any details about the storm that may have caused it. This record helps you track the damage and can be useful if you file an insurance claim.
Also, write down the approximate size and location of each mark. If you have multiple sides affected, document them separately. Good documentation gives you a clear picture of the damage's extent, which helps when you talk to a professional or your insurance company. Keep these records in a safe place.
When to Call a Professional
If you see any signs of hail damage, especially if water is getting in, it's wise to have a professional inspect the siding. A water damage assessment can reveal hidden issues like moisture behind the siding or in the wall structure. The pros can also check the roof and other areas for damage that isn't visible from the ground.
For significant damage, structural repairs after damage might be needed to fix the underlying framing. A water damage repair service can handle the cleanup and drying if water has already caused problems. Acting early can save you from more extensive and costly repairs down the road. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Talk to someone now
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (480) 898-4279Frequently asked questions
Can hail damage on siding cause leaks?
Yes, hail damage can create gaps or cracks in siding that allow water to enter your home. Water can then soak into walls, insulation, or framing, leading to rot and mold. Check for stains or dampness inside, and dry any wet areas quickly.
How can I tell if damage is from hail or something else?
Hail damage usually appears as round dents or cracks that cluster on one side of the house, often following the storm's path. Other causes, like impacts from a lawn mower or thrown objects, tend to be isolated and irregular. Look for a pattern across multiple surfaces like gutters or roofs.
Should I fix hail damage on siding right away?
Yes, fixing it soon helps prevent water from getting behind the siding. Small dents might not need immediate repair, but cracks or splits should be sealed or patched to keep moisture out. If you notice water stains or musty smells, address them promptly to avoid bigger issues.