The short answer
Start with a Safe Ground Check
Begin your inspection from the ground, walking the full perimeter of your home. Look for obvious hail impacts such as dents, cracks, or holes in the siding. Note any panels that are loose, warped, or hanging oddly. Pay special attention to areas facing the storm's direction, as those often take the hardest hits.
Use a pair of binoculars to examine higher sections of siding, especially around rooflines and gables. Look for shiny spots on metal or vinyl, which can indicate fresh impacts. If you see any discoloration or staining, that might signal water has already found a way in. Take photos of anything suspicious so you have a record for later.
- Dents or dimples in vinyl or aluminum
- Cracks or splits in wood or fiber cement
- Loose or missing panels
- Warped or buckled sections
- Staining or water streaks near edges
Check Seams and Edges Closely
Walk along the edges of your siding, where panels overlap or meet corners. These joints are common weak points after hail. A hard impact can pop a seam open, even if the panel itself looks fine. Run your hand along the seams to feel for gaps or raised edges that could let rain in.
Inspect the trim around windows, doors, and utility penetrations. Hail can dent or crack these areas, creating entry points for water. Look for caulk that has split or pulled away from the surface. If the trim is damaged, water can seep behind the siding and reach the wall structure.
Look for Interior Water Signs
After checking the exterior, step inside and look at the walls that sit behind the siding. Feel for damp spots, soft drywall, or bubbling paint. Water can travel along studs and appear far from the actual leak. Check baseboards for discoloration or warping, especially in rooms that face the storm.
Also examine your attic for any signs of moisture, since hail damage to siding can sometimes coincide with roof damage. Look for wet insulation, stained wood, or daylight coming through gaps. If you find any of these, water damage may already be underway and needs prompt attention.
Know When to Call the Pros
If you find cracks, holes, or water stains, it's wise to have a professional inspect the full exterior. Siding damage can hide deeper issues like moisture in the wall cavity. Local water damage pros can assess the extent and advise on drying or repairs. They have tools to detect moisture that a visual check will miss.
Act quickly if you suspect water has entered. Delaying can lead to mold growth and structural rot. In a humid climate like Daytona Beach, moisture problems can escalate fast. A professional inspection helps you understand what needs repair and what can wait.
Document Everything for Insurance
Take clear photos of every dent, crack, or stain you find, both wide shots and close-ups. Note the date and time of the storm, and keep any weather reports or hail size information. This documentation helps when you talk to your insurance company about potential coverage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Walk through your yard and check other items that might show hail impact, like gutters, air conditioning units, or fences. These can provide evidence of the storm's severity. Keep a simple log of when you noticed the damage and what you saw. That record can make the claims process smoother.
Talk to someone now
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (386) 272-5697Frequently asked questions
What size hail damages siding?
Hail larger than one inch in diameter can dent vinyl or aluminum siding. Smaller hail might not cause visible damage, but wind-driven debris can still crack panels. Inspect carefully after any storm, even with small hail. If you see any impact marks, check for hidden water entry.
Can hail damage cause water leaks?
Yes, cracked or punctured siding can let rain seep into the wall cavity. Water can then damage insulation, drywall, and framing. Even small cracks can leak over time. If you notice damp spots or musty odors, water may already be inside. A professional inspection can find hidden moisture.
How long can I wait to fix hail damage?
It's wise to address damage soon, especially if water is entering. Delays can allow mold and rot to develop. A small crack can become a bigger problem within weeks. Schedule an inspection as soon as you can. Your insurance company can guide you on timelines for filing a claim.