Alberta’s winters are hard on a home. But it’s the spring and summer weather that does some of the quieter, longer-term damage to your siding. A quick inspection before hail season hits can save you a lot of money and hassle down the road.
Why spring is the right time to look
Spring is when last year’s damage becomes visible. Snow and ice can mask cracks, gaps, and soft spots that only show up once things dry out. It’s also your window to catch and fix issues before another hail season adds to them.
In Alberta, hail season typically runs from June to September, with the highest risk in June and July. Getting eyes on your siding early gives you time to act before the worst of it arrives.
Before you start: Do your inspection on a dry day with good light. Morning or late afternoon light casts shadows that make dents, cracks, and warping easier to spot than direct midday sun.
What to look for by siding type
Different materials show damage differently. Here’s what to watch for on the most common siding types in Alberta:
- Vinyl siding: Cracks, chips, and dents from hail impact. Warping or bubbling from UV exposure. Gaps where panels have pulled away from the wall or from each other.
- Wood siding: Soft or spongy spots that indicate moisture damage. Peeling or flaking paint. Cracks running along the grain. Rot at the bottom edges where water pools.
- Stucco: Hairline cracks anywhere on the surface. Larger cracks or chunks missing around windows, doors, and corners. Discolouration that suggests water is getting in behind.
- Fibre cement: Chips or cracks at the edges of boards. Swelling along the bottom edges from moisture. Paint that’s peeling or fading unevenly, which can expose the material underneath.
Seeing damage across more than one area, or on multiple siding types? It may be worth getting a repair quote before it spreads. ATCO Energy offers siding repair services for all common Alberta siding types.
Signs of sun damage on siding
UV exposure does its damage gradually, which makes it easy to miss until it becomes a bigger problem. Look for:
- Fading or colour changes, particularly on south-facing walls that get the most direct sun
- A powdery residue on painted surfaces that rubs off on your hand
- Warping, bubbling, or rippling on vinyl siding, which happens when panels absorb heat over many seasons
- Brittle or cracked caulking around windows and door frames, which dries out and shrinks with repeated UV exposure
Signs of hail damage on siding
Hail damage isn’t always obvious from a distance. Up close, you're looking for:
- Small circular dents or dings in a scattered pattern across the surface
- Chipped or cracked paint in concentrated areas, particularly on south and west-facing walls where hail hits hardest
- Dents on metal fixtures like gutters, downspouts, and window trim that are often easier to spot than siding damage
- Exposed or bare material where the surface has been knocked away
How to do a siding inspection
You don’t need special tools, just a careful walk around your home.
1. Start from a distance
Stand back and look at each wall before looking closely. Warping, uneven panels, and discolouration are easier to catch from ten feet away.
2. Get close on anything suspicious
Run your hand along the surface. You can often feel dents, soft spots, and hairline cracks that aren’t visible from a distance.
3. Focus on corners, edges, and window and door frames
Hail tends to hit corners and protruding trim harder than flat wall surfaces.
4. Check the bottom edge of each wall
Look for soft spots, discolouration, or any gap between the siding and the foundation. If left unchecked, moisture behind siding can lead to mold growth.
5. Inspect all caulking
Check anywhere two materials meet. The caulk should be intact, flexible, and fully adhered to on both sides.
6. Document what you find
Photos are useful for getting accurate repair quotes and are essential if you end up filing an insurance claim for hail damage.
When to call in a pro
Some things are worth fixing yourself. Others need a professional. Consider calling one if:
- You find widespread cracking in stucco, which can indicate structural movement rather than surface damage
- There are soft spots or signs of rot that suggest moisture has been getting in for a while
- Your siding is showing damage across multiple walls after a significant hailstorm
- You’re not sure whether the damage you’re seeing is cosmetic or structural
If your siding is aging and showing damage in multiple areas, a full replacement is sometimes more cost-effective than ongoing repairs. ATCO Energy’s siding installation service covers all common Alberta siding types. Contact us and our pros will help you find the right fit for your home.
Frequently asked questions about siding damage in Alberta
How do I know if my siding has hail damage?
Look for small circular dents or chips in a scattered pattern, particularly on south and west-facing walls. Check your gutters and downspouts first. If they show impact marks, your siding likely does too. Photograph the damage and contact your insurer shortly after any significant storm.
What does sun damage look like on siding?
Fading, chalking, warping, and brittle caulking are the most common signs. South-facing walls tend to show UV damage first. On vinyl siding, prolonged sun exposure can cause panels to warp or ripple over time.
Is siding damage covered by home insurance in Alberta?
Hail damage is typically covered under most standard home insurance policies in Alberta, though coverage varies by provider and policy. Sun damage and general wear and tear are usually not covered.
How often should I inspect my siding?
We recommend doing a siding inspection once a year, with a quick check after any significant hailstorm. Spring is the best time for an annual inspection since winter damage becomes visible once things dry out, and you still have time to make repairs before hail season begins.
Should I repair or replace my siding?
If the damage is isolated to one or two areas, repair is usually the right call. If you’re seeing damage across multiple walls, or if the siding is older and showing wear throughout, replacement can be more cost-effective in the long run.
ATCO Energy offers both siding installation and siding repair services. Our pros will help you find the best option for your home.
