Hail Damage Beyond the Roof: Gutters, Siding and Windows
Hail damages more than shingles. What hail does to gutters, siding, windows, screens and fences in North Texas, what to look for, and why it matters.
When hail hits a roof, it hits everything else on that side of the house too. Damage to gutters, siding and windows is easy to overlook, and it can let water into places that cause bigger problems later.
Gutters and downspouts
Aluminum gutters dent easily. Small cosmetic dents may not affect how they work, but dents that create low spots, crack seams or bend hangers cause overflow and leaks at the roof edge. Dented gutters are also a useful sign that hail was big enough to damage shingles.
Siding
Look along the walls that faced the storm for cracks, chips, holes and spatter marks. Vinyl can crack, fiber cement can chip, and wood can split or lose paint. Damaged siding can let water behind the wall where it isn't visible.
Windows and screens
- Cracked or chipped glass, even small chips that can spread
- Dented or split frames and metal window wraps
- Torn or dented screens, the most common and most overlooked damage
- Fogging between double panes, a sign the seal failed
Fences, decks and outdoor equipment
Wood fences and decks show hail as splits and bright spatter marks. AC condenser fins often get flattened, which can affect how well the unit runs, so mention it to your HVAC technician.
One inspection for everything
Our free inspection covers the whole exterior, not just the roof, and documents gutters, siding, windows and fencing in the same photo report.