When storms hit Virginia or Maryland, hail can be huge. It can damage siding, shingles, gutters, and windows. Knowing how to spot damage and what to do next is key. It’s also important to know who to call and what questions to ask.
Radical Restoration offers risk-free, no-hassle, FREE inspections for storm damage to your siding, roof, windows, or gutters.
Hail Damage Factors
Any home can get hit by hail. After a storm, check your property. Consider the hail size, storm duration, wind speeds, and natural protection. These factors affect the damage.
- Hail Size: Larger hail hits harder. Hail over an inch can cause damage.
- Wind Speed: Strong winds can make hail damage worse. They can dent your roof and siding.
- Barriers: Trees and plants can protect your home. But exposed homes get more damage.
Signs of Hail Damage on Siding
Damage can happen to any siding type—vinyl, metal, or wood. Some materials are more resistant, but damage can still occur. It’s important to have a pro check your siding.
Radical Restoration specializes in storm damage inspections. They can find even small damage that could lead to bigger problems. Check for damage when the sun is not too strong.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is popular for its affordability and low maintenance. But it can get damaged by hail, especially as it gets older. Here are signs of hail damage on vinyl siding:
- Cracking: You might see small cracks or bigger fractures.
- Chipping: Hail can chip away vinyl rather than dent it.
- Warping: Vinyl siding can buckle or warp in strong storms.
- Gouging: While rare, vinyl siding can also get gouges or dents.
Thinking of replacing your siding? Learn more about options and how Radical Restoration can help.
Steel Siding
Steel siding is affordable and durable. Hail damage usually shows up as dents. Here are things to look for:
- Dents: You’ll see dents and divots from hail damage.
- Chipped Paint: Hail can chip or fade paint, big or small.
- Discoloration: Oxidation can leave a white residue on dented steel siding.
- Gapping: Look for gaps between aluminum siding layers.
Engineered Wood Siding
Engineered wood siding lasts longer but needs more care. Hail damage can show up as dents, cracks, and chipped paint. Even small damage can let moisture in, causing bigger problems.
- Dents: Small blemishes or pockmarks may appear depending on the hail size.
- Chipped Paint: Dents often lead to chipped or missing paint on wood siding.
- Cracks: Severe storms can cause wood siding to crack or split.
- Warping: If water and hail damage are significant, warping and buckling may occur.
Risks of Ignoring Hail Damage
Ignoring hail damage can be risky, no matter your siding type. Even if damage isn’t obvious, get a pro to check after a storm. This is especially true for hail damage.
- Water Damage: Small cracks or holes can let water in. This can lead to mold, mildew, and more.
- Missed Insurance Deadlines: You might only have a short time to file an insurance claim after a hailstorm.
- Energy Efficiency: Holes or cracks can let outside air in. This makes your home less energy-efficient and raises utility costs.
- Pests: Openings in your siding can invite pests like ants and rodents into your home.
Don’t let hail damage go unchecked. Let Radical Restoration’s experienced team inspect your siding and prevent further issues.
What To Do If You Find Hail Damage
At the first sign of hail damage, call a pro like Radical Restoration for a thorough check. Whether it’s your family home or a commercial property, an expert ensures the job is done right. Here’s what to do if you suspect hail damage:
- Take Photos: Document any damage you spot. This can be helpful later, especially if you need to file an insurance claim.
- Contact a Contractor: Choose a trusted company with a good reputation, like Radical Restoration. Have a list of questions ready to make sure they’re the right fit for your home.
- Contact Your Insurance Agent: Radical Restoration can work directly with your insurance company, making the process smoother and less stressful.
- Inspect Everything: Don’t just focus on your roof. Damage can occur on siding, gutters, downspouts, windows, doors, and chimneys.
Risk-Free, Hassle-Free Storm Damage Inspection from Radical Restoration
Hail damage to your siding or roof is never fun, but with the right professionals, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Choose a storm damage contractor you can trust to get the job done right the first time. Radical Restoration is family-owned and cares about providing excellent service for homes in Virginia and Maryland. Contact us today for a free estimate.
