This year, Wisconsin experienced numerous severe windstorms, including 39 tornadoes. These powerful winds left a trail of destruction, with countless homes suffering damage to their siding. As a local roofing and siding company serving the region, we have seen firsthand the toll these storms can take on our community’s homes.
If you’re a homeowner in the area, chances are your property has faced its fair share of wild weather. But how can you tell if your siding has been compromised by these fierce winds; and more importantly, what can you do about it? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of identifying wind damage to your home’s siding and provide expert tips on how to repair it effectively.
How Do Wind Storms Damage Siding?
A subtle breeze is always welcome as it can feel refreshing. However, in Wisconsin, the winds can get harsh at times, and damage your home and siding in multiple ways. Here are some forms of wind damage you may experience:
#1 Loose or Missing Siding Panels
One of the most common forms of wind damage to siding is when siding panels become loose or go missing entirely. Many harsh storms in Wisconsin are accompanied by winds as high as 70 mph. High winds can catch the edges of siding panels, especially if they’re already loose due to age or improper installation. Once the wind gets under a panel, it can lift and separate it from the house. In severe cases, entire sections of siding may be torn off, leaving the underlying structure exposed to the elements.
How To Repair Loose/Missing Siding Panels
Loose Siding
- To repair loose siding panels, you should use a siding removal tool or a pry bar to get underneath the loose panel.
- Gently pull the siding panel to check for fasteners. If you find any, remove them carefully using a hammer or a screwdriver.
- Once the nails are removed, you can reposition the siding panel and secure it back in place with new nails or screws.
- Be sure to caulk around the edges to seal out moisture and prevent future issues.
Missing Siding
- Before starting the repair, determine the type of siding your home has. Different materials require different repair techniques.
- For example, vinyl siding usually involves snapping new pieces into place. While wood siding may require cutting and nailing the new pieces in place.
- For missing panels, measure the area and cut a replacement piece to fit.
- Slide the new panel into place, interlocking it with surrounding pieces, and secure it with appropriate fasteners.
For other types of siding, follow manufacturer guidelines for proper attachment methods.
#2 Cracked Panels
Cracks and splits along siding are often caused by flying debris during windstorms. How does this happen? When high winds propel branches, rocks, or other objects against your home’s exterior, they can create fractures in the siding material. These cracks may start off small but can worsen over time, especially with repeated exposure to wind and weather.
One type of siding that is vulnerable to cracking or splitting is wood siding. Extreme temperature fluctuations, combined with stress from the wind, can also lead to splitting, particularly along vinyl siding.
How To Repair Cracks In Siding
Small cracks in vinyl siding can often be repaired with vinyl siding sealant. Clean the area thoroughly, apply the sealant, and smooth it out. For larger cracks or splits, especially along wood siding, you may need to replace the damaged section entirely.
#3 Dented Siding
Wind-blown debris leaves dents and impact damage that creates visible indentations or holes along the siding. All types of siding, more commonly metal, and vinyl siding, are prone to this kind of wind damage.
During severe storms, items like tree branches, outdoor furniture, or even large hailstones can be picked up by the wind and hurled against your home’s exterior. The resulting damage can range from minor cosmetic issues to significant structural concerns, depending on the force of impact and the durability of your siding material.
For metal siding with minor dents:
- Try to access the back of the dented area.
- Gently push the dent out using a rubber mallet or a block of wood.
- Be careful not to create new dents or distort the siding further.
For vinyl siding with dents or holes:
- Vinyl doesn’t respond well to repair attempts for dents.
- Cut out the damaged section using a utility knife or tin snips.
- Install a replacement piece of the same style and color.
- Use a zip tool to unlock the course above, slide in the new piece, and relock it.
#4 Peeling Paint
Peeling or chipping paint is often overlooked as a form of wind damage, but constant wind exposure can indeed accelerate the normal wear and tear of painted surfaces. Wind carrying small particles of dust or sand can also gradually erode paint, leading to flaking and chipping. While this may seem like a purely cosmetic issue, it can lead to more serious problems if it’s left unattended, as the paint often serves as a protective layer for the siding material underneath.
How To Repaint Your Siding
- Scrape the Siding: Scrape off loose and peeling paint with a scraper or putty knife.
- Sand the Surface: Sand the area with medium-grit sandpaper to smooth out rough edges. Finish with fine-grit sandpaper for a smooth surface.
- Apply Primer: Apply a coat of primer to the sanded area to ensure the new paint adheres well to the surface.
- Paint: Once the primer is dry, apply the paint, blending it with the surrounding area. Let it dry completely, then apply a second coat if needed.
#5 Warped Siding
Warping or buckling occurs when siding no longer lies flat against the house, instead, it appears wavy or bent. This type of damage is often the result of long-term exposure to high winds, which can gradually deform the siding material. Poor installation can also increase the impact of this issue, as can moisture infiltration behind the siding. Warped siding not only looks ugly, but it can also compromise your home’s weather resistance.
How To Deal With Warped Siding
Unfortunately, siding that’s become warped or buckled usually requires replacement. Remove the damaged section carefully to avoid harming surrounding pieces. Cut a new piece to size, ensuring it matches the existing siding, and install it following manufacturer guidelines.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Wind Damage To Siding?
Both repairing and replacing siding are hard tasks in terms of time and cost. So it’s natural to wonder whether your homeowner’s insurance will cover the damage. The answer to this depends on the type of damage your siding has experienced.
If the wind damage to your siding is sudden and accidental, such as from a storm, then it’s likely that your homeowner’s insurance would cover the cost of repairing or replacing the damaged siding. However, if the damage is due to lack of maintenance or is considered gradual wear and tear, it may not be covered by your insurance policy. It’s important to review your policy and speak with your insurance agent.
Get Help From Premier Siding Contractors In Wisconsin
While some repairs can be tackled as a DIY project, it’s always wise to seek the expertise of professionals, such as the team at Prestige Roofing LLC to ensure that the damage is properly identified and repaired. If you need assistance with assessing or repairing wind damage to your home’s siding, our team of experts is here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out for a thorough inspection by contacting us today at (920) 791-0414.