Severe storms can bring strong winds and damaging hail that leave lasting effects on your business’s property. Early recognition and detection can prevent further damage and costly repairs. Here are 10 key signs that your business might have suffered wind and hail damage — and when it’s time to call a professional restoration company.

1. Visible Roof Damage

Wind and hail can take a toll on your roof, causing cracked or missing shingles, dents, and punctures. If you see areas where the roofing material has been lifted, damaged, or removed, it’s important to act quickly before leaks cause internal damage.

2. Water Stains on Ceilings and Walls

Even small roof damage can result in water leaking into your building, leading to water damage and mold growth. If you notice water stains on ceilings or walls, this is a clear sign that water is entering your business through cracks or gaps in your roof or siding, potentially requiring water damage restoration and mold remediation.

3. Broken Windows or Skylights

Strong winds and hail can shatter windows and skylights, leaving your business vulnerable to further damage from rain and debris. Look for cracks, shattered glass, or moisture buildup between window panes — all of which indicate it’s time to seek professional help.

4. Dented or Cracked Siding

Your building’s siding is one of the first defenses against storms. Hailstones and high winds can leave dents, cracks, and holes in siding, exposing the underlying structure to the elements and increasing the risk of structural damage. Check your siding for any irregularities or damage after a storm.

5. Damaged HVAC Units

Roof-mounted HVAC units are vulnerable to hail and wind damage. Bent fins, dented panels, or leaking refrigerant are all indicators that your HVAC system may be compromised. A damaged unit can affect the efficiency of your heating and cooling, leading to higher energy costs.

6. Debris Around the Property

After a storm, wind and hail often leave behind debris, such as broken tree branches, loose roofing materials, or shattered glass. While some debris might seem harmless, it can be a sign that your building has sustained significant damage.

7. Leaking or Clogged Gutters

Wind and hail can clog your gutters with debris or cause them to detach from the building. This prevents water from properly draining away, leading to pooling water around your foundation, which could cause structural damage over time.

8. Soft or Spongy Roof Areas

If certain areas of your roof feel soft or spongy when stepped on, this indicates moisture has seeped under the surface. Prolonged moisture exposure weakens the roofing material, leading to a leaking roof and potential rot. Immediate inspection and restoration are necessary to prevent further issues.

9. Mold Growth

Mold thrives in damp environments, and roof or wall leaks caused by wind and hail can create the perfect breeding ground. If you notice mold or musty smells inside your business, it’s crucial to address the issue quickly and consider professional mold remediation before it spreads.

10. Interior Drafts

If you notice drafts in areas that were previously insulated, wind damage may have compromised your building’s weatherproofing. This could be due to damaged windows, doors, or siding, all of which should be inspected after a storm.

When to Take Action and Contact a Restoration Company to Restore Your Business

Identifying wind and hail damage early is essential to protecting your business. If you’ve noticed any of the signs mentioned above, it’s important to act quickly to prevent additional damage. Delaying repairs could result in more extensive and costly issues, such as water damage, mold growth, and structural deterioration.

A professional restoration company, like NDS Property Restoration, can assess the damage and provide immediate solutions to get your business back on track. Their team of experts can handle everything from roof repairs to water extraction, ensuring your property is restored efficiently and with minimal downtime.

With the NDS PRIME™ program, we offer preventive guidance, including tips on maintenance and storm-proofing your building to minimize future risks. When a storm hits, our rapid response team is ready to mitigate damage and get your business running again as quickly as possible.

Don’t wait for the damage to get worse — if your business shows any of these signs after a storm, contact us immediately. Acting fast can save you time, money, and unnecessary headaches down the road.