How to Inspect Your Siding for Damage After Severe Fall Storms

Springfield Marketing Services • November 29, 2024

How to Inspect Your Siding for Damage After Severe Fall Storms

Fall storms can be harsh on your home, bringing strong winds, heavy rain, and even hail that can cause significant damage to your siding. After a severe storm, it’s important to conduct a thorough inspection to identify any issues early on, preventing further damage and costly repairs. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to inspect your siding for damage after a fall storm.

1. Safety First: Take Precautions

Before you begin inspecting your siding, ensure your safety. Always wait until the storm has passed, and it’s safe to go outside. Avoid standing directly under damaged or unstable parts of the roof or siding. If you need to use a ladder to reach higher areas, ensure it’s stable and positioned on a flat surface. If you’re not comfortable with heights or the damage looks extensive, consider hiring a professional for a thorough inspection.

2. Check for Visible Signs of Damage from the Ground

Start your inspection by walking around the perimeter of your home and looking for obvious signs of damage from a distance. Here’s what to look for:

Cracks or Gaps: Severe wind or hail can cause cracks or gaps in your siding. Inspect all sides of the house, paying attention to areas around windows, doors, and corners where damage is more likely to occur.

Dents or Dings: Siding materials like aluminum, steel, or vinyl can get dented or deformed from flying debris or hail. Look for any small or large dents along the surface.

Loose or Detached Pieces: High winds can cause siding panels to loosen or even detach. Check for any sections of siding that may have come loose or are hanging.

Water Stains: Look for any water stains or discoloration along the siding, which could indicate that rain has seeped behind the panels and caused moisture damage to the underlying structure.

3. Inspect for Hail Damage

Hail can be one of the most damaging components of a fall storm, especially for materials like vinyl, aluminum, or wood. To check for hail damage:

Vinyl or Aluminum Siding: Inspect for small, round dents or punctures in the surface. These can sometimes be hard to see, so run your hand along the surface to feel for any irregularities.

Wood Siding: Look for cracks, chips, or gouges that may have been caused by hailstones. Since wood can splinter more easily than other materials, even small impacts can result in long-lasting damage.

Stone or Brick Siding: Hail can cause chips or cracks in stone or brick. Examine the surface closely for any visible breaks or shifts in the mortar.

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Long-Term Exterior Repairs: Why Temporary Fixes Aren’t Worth the Risk

By Sarah Chin • July 30, 2025

We help repair and replace roofs, gutters, windows, and more that will stand the test of time. Discover why we are the top exterior company in Springfield, MO.

installing new gutters in springfield mo

How Often Should You Replace Gutters in Springfield, MO?

By Sarah Chin • June 30, 2025

How Often Should You Replace Gutters in Springfield, MO? Summary: Not sure if your gutters are still doing their job? In this guide, we’ll walk through how long gutters last in Missouri, what Springfield’s weather does to your system, and the warning signs that it’s time to replace them—plus why upgrading your gutters could save you thousands in future repairs. How long do gutters last in Missouri? On average, gutters last 20–25 years , but that depends on the material and local climate. In Springfield, MO , where we see heavy spring rains, high winds, and ice storms, the lifespan of your gutters can drop significantly—especially if they weren’t installed correctly or cleaned regularly. Seamless aluminum gutters , the most common type in Southwest Missouri, tend to last around 20 years with proper maintenance. But even high-end systems need replacement eventually. What damages gutters in Springfield? Common culprits include: Ice dams and freeze-thaw cycles in winter Leaf and debris buildup from nearby trees High wind and hail storms Improper pitch or installation Clogged downspouts that cause water to overflow and pool at your foundation All of these are frequent issues in Springfield neighborhoods like Southern Hills, Fremont Hills, and Phelps Grove. How can I tell if my gutters need to be replaced? If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s time to schedule an inspection: Water spilling over the sides of gutters Gutters pulling away from the roofline Visible rust, holes, or cracks Peeling paint or water stains on siding Foundation issues or erosion Overflow during light rain Mold or mildew around the base of your home Often, what looks like a “minor leak” is a sign your gutters have already failed in key spots. Should I install gutter guards in Springfield? Absolutely—especially if you have trees near your home. Gutter guards help prevent clogs , reduce maintenance, and protect your roofline and siding from water overflow. In the Ozarks, we recommend pairing gutter guards with seamless aluminum systems for maximum durability and performance. At Exteriors by Carnahan White, we install custom-fit guards that integrate with both new and existing gutter systems. How much does gutter replacement cost in Springfield, MO? Typical costs in Springfield range from $1,200 to $2,500 for full gutter replacement, depending on: Size of your home Type of gutter material Whether you add gutter guards Number of stories or roof complexity We offer free estimates and financing options to make upgrades affordable and stress-free. Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait Until You See Water Damage Gutters are your home’s first line of defense against water intrusion. If yours are 15+ years old—or showing signs of wear—it’s smart to schedule a checkup before storm season hits . At Exteriors by Carnahan White, we’ve protected Springfield homes with top-quality gutters, siding, and roofing for over 60 years .