The short answer
Start with a Visual Safety Check
Before you get close, perform a visual sweep from a safe distance. Look for obvious hazards like dangling pieces of siding, exposed nails, or damaged electrical lines. Ensure the area around your home is clear of downed branches or debris that could pose a risk. Only proceed with a closer inspection once you confirm it is safe to walk around the perimeter of your house.
Look for Physical Damage and Breaches
Walk slowly around your home, examining the siding at eye level and above. Look for impact marks from hail or flying debris, which may appear as small dents or cracks. Search for splits in the material, especially in vinyl or wood siding. Any breach, no matter how small, can allow water to seep behind the siding and into your home's structure, leading to hidden problems.
Check for Moisture and Water Stains
Water stains or discoloration on your siding are clear warning signs. Look for dark streaks, bubbling paint, or areas that appear swollen. Gently press on suspicious spots; soft or spongy siding often means trapped moisture and rot underneath. These signs indicate that water has already penetrated the protective barrier, and the wall behind may be wet and damaged.
- Dark streaks or discoloration running down the siding.
- Bubbling, peeling, or flaking paint on the surface.
- Sections that feel soft, spongy, or warped to the touch.
- Visible mold or mildew growth, which looks like black or green spots.
- A musty odor coming from an exterior wall.
- Gaps or separations where siding panels meet trim or corners.
Inspect Seals, Flashing, and Trim
The seals around your home's openings are critical. Inspect the caulking and weather stripping around every window and door for cracks or gaps. Check the metal flashing above doors and windows, as well as where the siding meets the roof. Damaged flashing or missing sealant directs water straight behind your siding. This detailed check helps prevent future leaks that start in these vulnerable joints.
What to Do If You Find Damage
If you discover any damage, your first step is to prevent further water intrusion. Cover holes or breaches temporarily with a waterproof tarp, securing it tightly. Then, document all the damage with clear photographs from multiple angles for your records. This evidence is crucial whether you plan to make repairs yourself or need to file an insurance claim for the damage to your property.
- Temporarily cover holes or missing sections with a waterproof tarp.
- Take clear, dated photographs of all damage from different angles.
- Make notes about the location and extent of each problem area.
- Contact your insurance company to report the damage and ask about next steps.
- Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
- Schedule an inspection with a qualified siding contractor or local water damage pros.
Water damage does not wait
Phones are answered 24/7 for Oklahoma City and nearby communities.
Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
Can I wait to repair small cracks in my siding?
It is not wise to delay. Even a small crack can let in rain and moisture, which leads to rot, mold, and structural damage inside your walls. Addressing minor damage quickly prevents much larger and more expensive repairs later on.
What if I see mold on my siding after a storm?
Mold on the exterior surface often means moisture is trapped behind the siding. You should have a mold professional assess the situation to determine if there is a larger hidden problem. They can advise on safe cleaning and necessary repairs to the underlying structure.
How does siding damage lead to indoor water problems?
Damaged siding allows water to seep into the wall cavity behind it. This moisture can then soak insulation, rot wood framing, and eventually lead to stains, mold, or leaks appearing on your interior walls and ceilings, requiring significant restoration work.