When storms make their way through the area, they can leave costly damage in their wake. As soon as a storm passes over, walk around your exterior and inspect your siding for signs of damage. When you spot something concerning, contact an experienced siding contractor to have it inspected. Don’t leave even minor storm damage unaddressed, or it may cascade into major problems.
Here are some tips on what to look for after a storm.
How to Spot Siding Damage
When you do a visual inspection of your siding, look for dents, cracks, holes, or anything that stands out as abnormal. Check for blown off siding, as that indicates the need for a quick repair or replacement to prevent further problems.
1. Check for Moisture Intrusion
Signs that water has penetrated your siding include discoloration, peeling paint, and warping of your siding panels. If water has invaded your siding, that indicates a leak in your home’s exterior envelope and requires swift resolution to prevent more damage.
2. Look for High Wind Damage
If your siding becomes bent, twisted, or torn off, it’s likely due to high winds that passed through Kansas City. If there are holes between siding panels, they can compromise the integrity of your exterior.
3. Examine Siding for Hail Indentions
Signs of hail damage on your exterior include dents, chips, and cracks in your siding. The bigger the hail, the more significant the damage. Hail doesn’t just mar your home’s appearance; it also reduces its effectiveness in shielding your house from the elements.
4. Reach Out to a Siding Contractor
If a recent storm caused your exterior damage, don’t risk overlooking a problem or procrastinate addressing a solution. Contact a reputable siding company and have them give your home a thorough inspection and supply you with a detailed estimate of what it needs. Siding professionals have a trained eye to spot hidden damage that may be lurking.
One primary reason for scheduling a professional inspection is to have them officially document any damage for the sake of insurance claims. A detailed report and photos are evidence for your insurance company so you receive the coverage you need to repair your exterior after a storm. You’ll prevent further damage by having the storm damage assessed and restored.
The Importance of Documenting Storm Damage
After a storm, take pictures of any areas of your home that were impacted by the event. Next, document all that you saw and experienced with the storm including how long it lasted, the date and time of the storm, and how large the hail was that impacted your home.
What Happens if You Ignore Storm Damage?
Ignoring hail damage puts you at risk of loss.
1. Water Damage Gets Worse
Water penetration can get significantly worse if it is overlooked. Even if there is just a small hole or crack from hail, if water is seeping into your home as a result, it needs to be repaired.
2. You May Miss the Deadline for Filing an Insurance Claim
Acting promptly after a storm is vital to getting the help you deserve from your insurance company.
3. Your Home’s Energy Use Will Increase
When hail creates holes in your siding, outside temperatures can quickly invade, causing your energy use and utility bills to rise.
4. You Open the Door to Pest Damage
When storms cause your siding to become compromised, your home is vulnerable to pest and critter intrusion such as ants, termites, and rodents.
Safeguard Your Home from Future Siding Damage
Hardie siding offers outstanding durability when compared to other siding materials. Its resilient makeup (cement, sand, and cellulose) keeps your home well defended from storm damage.
Get Stunning Replacement Siding for Your Kansas City Area Home
When your siding gets damaged from a storm or simply wears out, take action and have it inspected by a reputable siding contractor. Next, upgrade with new siding that will add value to your home and safeguard it from moisture intrusion and other damage.
At Smart Exteriors, as a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor, we are able to give you precisely installed siding. James Hardie doesn’t certify just any contractor. They require us to have insurance, licensing, training, and continued training. You can rest at ease when we install your siding that we have been vetted by the manufacturer themselves. Take a moment to explore how our siding services can elevate your home’s style and protect it from the elements.
