Storm Damage Pros in Rochester: Roof and Siding Inspections

By Cole Nelson
Blog
March 28, 2025

Why Storm Damage Inspections Matter

When a big storm hits Rochester, MN and the nearby areas, your first thought is safety, but the is probably about your home. Strong winds, hail, and heavy rain can really mess up roofs, siding, and other parts of your house without leaving clear signs. Not all storm damage is easy to spot from the ground level, but there are a few things you can do to check out your home and catch any problems early.

How to Spot Roof Storm Damage on Your Own

After a storm passes through, it’s smart to walk around your property and check for signs that your roof may have taken a hit. While some damage is obvious, a lot of storm-related issues can be subtle or hidden from ground level. Here’s what to keep an eye out for—and what it might mean for your roof.

Hail Damage: Bruising, Cracks, and Granule Loss

Hailstorms can leave behind telltale signs of impact on your roof. Look for dark spots or “bruises” on shingles—these often indicate the granules have been knocked off, leaving the underlying material exposed. Granules protect your roof from the sun and weather, so losing them can speed up deterioration. If you notice granules collecting in your gutters or downspouts, that’s a strong indicator that your shingles took a beating.

Wind Damage: Missing or Lifted Shingles

Strong winds can lift shingles along the edges or completely tear them off, leaving bare spots where water can get in. From the ground, look for areas of the roof that appear uneven or where the shingle lines don’t look straight. Shingles that are curled, creased, or flapping in the wind may have broken the seal and no longer provide full protection.

Debris Damage: Punctures and Impact Marks

Fallen branches, tree limbs, or flying debris can cause punctures or dents in your roof, especially on lower-pitched sections or around skylights, chimneys, and vents. Look for obvious signs like branches on the roof or torn flashing—these can create vulnerable entry points for water if not addressed quickly.

Interior Signs: Leaks, Stains, and Strange Smells

Sometimes the first signs of roof damage show up inside. After a storm, check your ceilings and walls for water stains, peeling paint, or bubbling drywall. Musty smells or discolored insulation in the attic can also indicate water intrusion from above. These signs suggest damage that may not be visible from outside but still needs immediate attention.

Subtle Signs: Shingle Granules and Gutter Issues

Even if your roof looks intact, there may still be damage. Shingle granules in your gutters, sagging gutter lines, or water overflowing where it normally wouldn’t can signal problems. Also check for rusted or dented flashing, especially around chimneys and roof edges, which may have been compromised during the storm.

Signs of Siding Damage After a Storm

Siding damage might not always look dramatic, but it can seriously impact your home’s protection. After a storm, it’s important to inspect your siding closely for any signs of damage—even small imperfections can lead to water intrusion, mold, or long-term structural issues. Here’s what to look for depending on the type of storm activity.

Hail Damage: Dents, Cracks, and Pockmarks

Hail can cause all kinds of issues depending on its size and speed. Look for small round dents, chips, or cracks—especially if you have vinyl or aluminum siding. Even pea-sized hail can leave marks when paired with strong wind. Over time, these impact points weaken the siding and allow moisture to seep in. On darker siding, discoloration or shiny marks might also indicate hail hits.

Wind Damage: Loose Panels and Warping

High winds can pull siding loose from the wall, cause panels to bend or warp, or even rip pieces off entirely. Walk around your home and check for siding that looks uneven, bows outward, or makes noise in the wind. Loose panels may still be hanging on but could create gaps where water can enter or pests can sneak in.

Flying Debris: Punctures and Gouges

Storms often send branches, outdoor furniture, and other debris flying through the air. When these hit your siding, they can leave behind puncture holes, deep scratches, or even break panels in half. Look for fresh-looking damage that wasn’t there before—especially sharp edges or pieces that look cracked or splintered.

Water Damage: Warping, Swelling, and Stains

If water has made its way behind the siding, you might start to notice warping, bubbling, or soft spots. In some cases, interior walls might even show signs of moisture damage, like peeling paint or mildew smells. Water damage can take time to show itself, but early signs often start on the exterior.

The Rise of Hail Storms in Minnesota

Over the past decade, Minnesota has seen an increase in severe hail events, particularly during late spring and summer. Hailstones ranging from pea-sized to golf ball-sized can cause significant damage to roofs and siding, especially when driven by high winds. Rochester and surrounding areas are no exception—hailstorms have become more frequent and more intense, making storm-resistant materials and thorough post-storm inspections more important than ever. Damage from hail might not cause immediate leaks or visible issues, but over time it can shorten the lifespan of roofing and siding materials, leading to expensive repairs if not caught early. Want to learn more, read the following article https://www.mprnews.org/episode/2024/06/10/climate-change-linked-to-rising-home-insurance-rates-in-minnesota

The Rise of Home Insurance

As a result of these recurring and increasingly destructive hailstorms, many homeowners across Minnesota have seen a rise in their home insurance premiums. Insurance companies assess risk based on weather trends and the likelihood of future claims, and the uptick in hail-related damage has made Minnesota a higher-risk area in their eyes. This makes it even more critical for homeowners to stay proactive with inspections and timely repairs. By documenting damage and addressing it early, you not only maintain your home’s integrity—you also protect yourself from potential claim issues and escalating premiums down the road.

Why Professional Storm Damage Inspections Are Essential

While checking things out yourself is a good start, you can’t see everything without climbing up on the roof or peeling back materials. That’s where the pros come in—and that’s where Maverick Construction steps up. We offer free storm damage inspections for homeowners in Rochester and throughout Southeast Minnesota. Our team knows exactly what to look for after a storm and we’re trained to spot damage that might be easy to miss but could lead to bigger problems later.

We Know Where to Look—and What to Look For

Storm damage isn’t always obvious. While homeowners may spot a missing shingle or dented gutter, many signs of damage are more subtle. Our trained inspectors look at the entire roofing system, flashing, vents, attic spaces, and siding—including areas that are often overlooked. We know how wind patterns and hail impact different parts of a structure, allowing us to pinpoint hidden problem areas before they escalate.

We Use Professional Tools and Techniques

From moisture meters and drones to high-resolution photo documentation and detailed checklists, we use advanced tools to detect damage that the untrained eye can’t see. Things like soft spots under shingles, hairline cracks in siding, or early signs of water intrusion are easier to detect with professional equipment—and catching these early can save thousands down the line.

We Identify Damage That Could Affect Insurance Claims

One of the biggest benefits of a professional inspection is proper documentation. We know how to assess and report damage in a way that aligns with insurance requirements. Our team can distinguish between cosmetic wear and true functional damage, helping ensure that nothing is missed when it’s time to file a claim. DIY inspections might overlook items that insurers need to see in order to approve coverage.

Safety Comes First

Getting on your roof without proper safety gear and training is dangerous. Our team is fully equipped and trained to inspect roofs and other elevated surfaces safely. We take on the risk so you don’t have to, giving you peace of mind while ensuring a thorough and accurate evaluation.

We Give You a Full Report and Clear Next Steps

After the inspection, we provide a detailed breakdown of what we found—complete with photos, explanations, and recommendations. Whether everything checks out fine or repairs are needed, you’ll walk away with a full picture of your home’s condition. We’re not here to pressure you—we’re here to give you clarity so you can make informed decisions.

Maverick Construction: Your Local Storm Damage Experts

Since 1981, Maverick Construction has been helping Rochester and nearby communities. With over four decades of experience, we’re a locally owned and operated business that homeowners trust with their biggest investment. We’ve helped tons of families bounce back after storms—fixing roofs, repairing siding, replacing gutters, and making sure their homes stay safe and sound. Our understanding of local building codes, materials, and weather patterns gives us an edge when it comes to spotting storm damage and suggesting the best fixes.

We Work With Insurance to Make the Process Easier

We know how stressful dealing with storm damage can be, especially with insurance involved. That’s why we work directly with insurance companies to make the claims process easier for you. From the moment you reach out for an inspection, we’re right there—documenting the damage, communicating with your adjuster, and ensuring your claim covers everything necessary. Our goal is to lift that weight off your shoulders and make sure you get the repairs or replacements you need without any added hassle.

We Handle the Documentation

Insurance companies require detailed, accurate documentation to process a storm damage claim. Our team provides comprehensive inspection reports, complete with high-quality photos and descriptions of the damage. We ensure every detail is recorded properly so your claim has the best chance of being approved in full.

We Advocate for You

Not all damage is immediately obvious, and adjusters may overlook things without a second opinion. That’s where we come in. We advocate on your behalf, making sure that all damage is properly identified and included in your claim. Our goal is to protect your investment and ensure you receive the coverage you’re entitled to.

We Speak the Language of Insurance Adjusters

Knowing how to talk to adjusters makes a big difference. We understand the terminology, requirements, and common sticking points that can cause delays or denials. By communicating directly with your adjuster, we help bridge the gap between your needs and what the insurance company is willing to cover—so nothing important gets left out.

Quality Repairs and Exterior Restoration Done Right

When you choose Maverick Construction, you’re picking a company built on trust, quality, and community. We’re dedicated to providing expert workmanship and using tough materials that can handle future storms. Whether you need a small roof repair or a whole siding replacement, we’ll guide you through the process with clear communication and honest pricing. Our team won’t cut corners—we do the job right the first time so you can relax knowing your home is safe.

Schedule Your Free Roof and Siding Inspection in Rochester

Don’t wait for minor issues to turn into major problems. If you think your home might have taken damage from a storm—or if you just want peace of mind—set up a free inspection with Maverick Construction today. Our team is ready to check out your roof, siding, gutters, and more to make sure everything’s in good shape. If repairs are needed, we’ll coordinate with you and your insurance to get everything back to normal quickly and smoothly.

Trust Rochester’s Storm Damage Specialists

Storms may be unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. With Maverick Construction by your side, you can face the aftermath with confidence. As Rochester’s reliable exterior remodeling experts, we’re here to help you weather any storm and come out stronger on the other side.