For homeowners in many parts of the country, it’s not a matter of whether a hailstorm will hit, it’s a matter of when. Hailstones that are penny-size (0.75 inches) or larger can cause significant damage to homes and property. For contractors who perform siding repair and replacement, it’s vital to know the signs of hail damage on various siding options.
- Cracks. Vinyl siding is very vulnerable to damage during a hailstorm, and cracks are one of the most common types of damage. Splits and cracks most often occur between the valley and ridges of a vinyl panel. They usually run parallel to the siding and may form half-circles.
- Chips. Chips most often occur at the bottom of a ridge on vinyl siding, where the material can’t flex inward to absorb the hit. The hailstone breaks off a small piece of siding, typically in the shape of a half-circle. Chips are most easily detected when looking up from underneath the panel. Fiber cement and engineered wood siding are more resistant to hail damage, but small black marks can be signs of chips and cracks in the paint.
- Dents and dings. For homes with aluminum siding, dents and dings in the metal are a common sign of storm damage. If the home has been hit by a hailstorm, be sure to inspect aluminum siding when sunlight is indirect (early morning or late evening) so damage is easier to pinpoint. Spraying the siding down with a hose will also make hail impressions easier to see.
- Holes. In a severe storm, vinyl and stucco can break or holes can be punched in the material by large hailstones and flying debris. If siding is broken or has holes, it must be replaced or repaired as soon as possible in order to protect the home from the elements.
LP® SmartSide® Trim & Siding is Hail-Resistant
LP invites you to find out more about the advantages of LP SmartSide engineered wood trim and siding for your business. Find out where to buy LP SmartSide products, or call our Customer Care Center at (888) 820-0325 to schedule a product knowledge meeting with an LP representative.