Can Hail Damage Gutters and Siding in Fargo?

Caleb Cook
Jul 30
2 min read

Yes, hail strong enough to damage a roof in Fargo almost always damages gutters, siding, and window wraps too. Aluminum gutters dent easily, vinyl siding splits under larger stones, and steel siding shows dings in raking light. If a storm left marks on your roof, the rest of your exterior deserves the same close look, and your insurance claim should cover all of it together.

What does hail damage look like on gutters?

Round dents on the top lip and outside face of aluminum gutters are the classic sign, along with dings on downspouts and dented gutter guards. Small cosmetic dents may not affect drainage, but repeated strikes can flatten the slope of a run or crease seams so water escapes behind the fascia. Adjusters often use gutter dents as evidence of hail size and direction, so do not repair anything before your roof gets a storm damage inspection.

How does hail affect siding in the Fargo area?

Vinyl siding cracks in half moon shapes, usually on the side of the house that faced the storm. Steel siding dents rather than cracks, and fiber cement can chip at the edges. Hail also splits window wraps, screens, and fascia metal. In West Fargo, Moorhead, and Horace we regularly find siding damage on homes where the owner only noticed the roof. A full walk around after any hail storm catches damage before it lets moisture behind the wall.

Should exterior damage go on the same insurance claim?

Yes. Roof, gutters, siding, and windows damaged by the same storm belong on one claim, and filing them together usually works in your favor since you pay a single deductible for all of it. Document everything with photos before the adjuster visit, and have a local contractor inspection report in hand. Damage that was never documented is hard to add to a claim later.

What should you do after the next hail storm?

Check gutters, downspouts, and the storm facing side of your siding from the ground, look for granules at the bottom of downspouts, and call for a professional inspection before you call your insurance company. Dodd Roofing and Exteriors inspects roofs, gutters, siding, and windows across Fargo, West Fargo, Moorhead, and Horace at no charge. Call us at (701) 831-0710 or reach us through our contact page and we will document everything the storm touched.