5 Things You Must Inspect Around Your Home After a Storm

After a storm rolls through, most homeowners do the same thing. They breathe a sigh of relief, see the trees still standing, the roof still on, and think, “Looks like we made it through.” But storms, especially hailstorms, are sneaky.

The damage they leave can be subtle. Tiny cracks, loose shingles, or weakened spots that you won’t even notice until water starts seeping in or something fails. By then, it’s often too late for a quick fix. That’s why it’s smart to do a careful check while everything still feels calm.

But how do you know what to check? That’s what this blog post is here for. We’ll share the five must-check areas to inspect around your home after a storm.

Let’s jump right in!

The Roof

Your roof might look fine from the ground, but most storm damage isn’t easy to spot unless you get a closer look. If it’s safe, grab a ladder and take a quick look from the edge. You’d be surprised how much more you can spot up close.

Windstorms can lift shingles, crack corners, or pull flashing loose around vents. These little gaps might seem harmless now but can easily let water in during the next rain.

Hail damage is usually easier to spot. Watch for dents in vents, broken shingles, or patches where the granules are missing. These areas often show up as dark spots or shiny marks — a common sign of hail damage on roof that can weaken protection over time.

If you spot anything, don’t brush it off. Even minor issues can grow fast. Reach out to experienced roofing experts. They can help with everything from routine roof damage repair to full roof replacements, ensuring your home stays protected against future storms. Getting a professional assessment early on can prevent small problems from turning into costly repairs down the line.

Siding & Exterior Walls

Your siding is like your home's coat — it protects everything underneath. Hail and flying debris can leave small cracks, holes, or dents that weaken it over time.

If your siding is vinyl, look for any split panels or punctures. With aluminum siding, dents, and scratches are common after a heavy storm. Run your hand along the siding. Feel for anything uneven, like bulges or loose spots.

These may not be obvious initially, but they can let in moisture if ignored. Over time, that can lead to paint chipping, water streaks, or even hidden mold behind the walls.

Gutters & Downspouts

After a storm, your gutters might be filled with leaves or tree debris, but that’s not the only thing to watch for. Check for dents or sagging — both are signs that hail might have hit hard.

If your downspouts are bent or clogged, rainwater won't flow away from your house the way it should. That water has to go somewhere, and it could end up soaking into your siding or pooling around your foundation.

Also, take a peek inside your gutters. Do you see little black specks? That’s likely shingle granules. And if they’re showing up here, it means your roof has started wearing down in places where it shouldn’t.

Windows & Screens

Your windows might seem okay at first glance, but give them a closer look. Start with the glass. Are there any fine cracks near the edges? Even small chips can grow over time, especially when the temperature changes.

Next, check the frames. Hail can dent metal and warp vinyl, and strong wind can loosen the seals around the edges. That might not sound serious, but weak seals can let in moisture. This could lead to mold or damage to your walls later.

Don’t forget the screens. Torn or sagging mesh might seem minor, but it leaves you exposed to bugs and weather — especially when the seasons change.

HVAC Units & Vents

If your HVAC unit sits outside, it probably took some hits during the storm. Hail can dent the metal fins on the condenser, block airflow, or knock debris inside the unit.

Blocked or damaged vents on the roof can also become entry points for water or pests. Check that they’re still tightly sealed and that nothing looks bent or cracked.

If your home suddenly feels harder to cool or heat after a storm, it could be because your system is working harder than it should. And that’s often linked to hidden damage from hail or wind.

Wrapping Up

Storms may pass in a few hours, but the damage they leave behind can last much longer — especially when it’s hidden. That’s why it’s so important to check your home from top to bottom while everything still feels calm and manageable.

Keep an eye out for early signs, especially things like roof dents, missing shingles, and water spots. It’s always better to catch small problems early — before they turn into expensive repairs.