Hail and humidity are siding's tests
Huntsville siding takes blows from above and moisture from the air. The National Weather Service in Huntsville calls the May 2, 2003 hailstorm one of the costliest in Alabama history, with hail larger than baseballs in places, over 30,000 insurance claims and over $50 million in damage. The Huntsville/Madison station also averages about 935 hours a year with the wet-bulb temperature above 73°F, so trapped moisture behind siding rarely dries out quickly. This calendar keeps the walls tight.
Spring (March through May): storm season
- Inspect after every hailstorm. Look for cracked vinyl, dents in aluminum or steel, and chipped fiber cement. Hail damage is often worst on the side facing the storm.
- Photograph damage with a date stamp before any repair, and call your insurer if it is extensive.
- Check caulk joints at windows, doors and trim.
Summer (June through August): moisture season
- Clean mildew from shaded walls with a soft brush and a mild cleaner.
- Trim shrubs back from the walls so siding dries.
- Point sprinklers away from the house.
- Inspect the bottom course near the ground for swelling, rot or insect activity.
Fall (September through November)
- Clean gutters so overflow does not soak siding.
- Paint or seal wood in mild, dry weather.
- Seal gaps around pipes and vents where pests could enter.
Winter (December through February)
- Check for loose or popped panels after cold snaps and windstorms. NOAA's data lists a 50-year basic wind speed of 90 mph for the Huntsville/Madison station.
- Look inside for stains on walls behind the siding.
Hidden water damage
Swollen trim, soft spots, peeling paint in one area year after year or musty smells inside an exterior wall can mean water behind the siding. A contractor can remove a few pieces to check the sheathing and the water-resistive barrier.
Licensing in Alabama
In Alabama, building, remodeling or repairing a residence when the job costs more than $10,000 needs a license from the Home Builders Licensure Board. A full re-side is often over that line. Ask for the license number and check it. After hailstorms, be careful with out-of-state crews who knock on doors.
Comparing quotes
Ask for the product line, the water-resistive barrier, window and door flashing details, trim, disposal and how damaged sheathing will be priced. A per-sheet price for sheathing repair avoids surprises.
Keep records
Keep the product name, color, install date and warranty. Matching after hail is much easier when you know the exact product.