Reading Hail Marks on Siding
Hail damage on vinyl often looks like small cracks, punctures or chipped edges, usually concentrated on the walls that faced the storm. On fiber cement and painted trim, look for spatter marks where paint or finish has been knocked off. Aluminum gutters show it as rounded dents along the front face and top edge. Window wraps and downspouts dent easily and are good indicators even when siding damage is subtle.
Reading Wind Damage
- Panels unlocked or missing, often near corners and gable peaks.
- Siding bowed outward where wind got behind it.
- Gutter runs pulled loose, twisted or hanging at an angle.
- Trim pieces missing or split.
Once wind gets behind a panel, the next rain can soak the sheathing, so loose sections should be secured quickly.
What You Can Check Safely
Stay on the ground. Walk each side of the house with your phone, take wide shots and close-ups, and note the date of the storm. Do not climb ladders onto wet or damaged surfaces. If something is open to rain, a call to a contractor for temporary protection is safer than trying it yourself. Our storm-season guide covers preparation steps for next time.
From Inspection to Finished Repair
- Free inspection of siding, gutters, trim and roof.
- Photo documentation organized by elevation for your insurer.
- Attendance at the adjuster meeting if you would like us there.
- A written repair scope that matches the approved claim.
- Replacement with matching or coordinated siding and seamless gutters, then cleanup.
If you are new to the claims process, read our article on filing a storm damage insurance claim in Mississippi.
Common Questions
How do I know if hail was big enough to damage my siding?
Size matters less than wind speed, angle and the age of the siding. Older, brittle vinyl can crack from smaller hail than new panels. A close inspection is the only reliable answer.
My gutters are dented but still work. Is that worth claiming?
Dents can still be covered storm damage even when gutters drain. Whether to file is your decision; we document what we find so you can discuss it with your agent.
Can you match my existing siding after storm damage?
We check the manufacturer and profile first. If an exact match is unavailable, we will document that for your insurer and discuss the options with you.
How long do storm repairs take once approved?
Small repairs are often done in a day or two. Full siding and gutter replacement typically takes about a week, depending on material availability and weather.