The Missouri Weather Problem: When Beauty Meets Brutality
From the rolling hills of St. Charles County to the historic neighborhoods of Kirkwood and Webster Groves, Greater St. Louis homes strike an irresistible balance of Midwestern charm and architectural character. Yet every spring and summer, that charm is tested by a barrage of thunderstorms sweeping up the Mississippi River Valley. According to the NOAA Storm Events Database, Missouri experienced more than 2,000 hail events over the last decade, with stones exceeding 1.75″ in diameter not uncommon in our metro area.
Those ice missiles don’t discriminate. They dent aluminum, crack vinyl, shatter old single-pane windows, and work their way under tired doorframes. If you’ve ever stepped outside after a storm to find broken siding panels or mysterious water stains around a window, you know exactly how vulnerable our homes can feel. That’s the problem we keep hearing from homeowners: “I love my house, but I’m tired of repairing it regularly.”
The Hidden Costs of Hail Damage
While the immediate damage of hail is visible, the long-term implications can be even more costly. The hidden costs of hail damage go beyond mere temporary inconveniences:
- Insurance deductibles add up. Even when a claim is accepted, most policies require you to pay the first $1,000–$2,500. Over time, repeated claims can even lead to increased premiums.
- Interrupted routines. Coordinating adjusters, contractors, and temporary lodging in extreme cases is stressful and often leads to time off work, impacting overall productivity and daily life.
- Decreased curb appeal. Bruised siding and fogged windows undermine property value—especially in a seller’s market where first impressions are critical.
- Energy loss. Cracks become draft points, forcing HVAC systems to work harder. The increased energy use drives up utility bills, adding another hidden cost to hail damage.
At Siding Express, we see hail for what it really is: a recurring expense. Our mission is to transform that expense into a one-time investment in resilient exteriors—siding, windows, and doors—that look stunning and stand strong, year after year.
Material Showdown: Which Siding Handles Hail Best?
Not all siding options offer equal protection. The choice of materials is crucial for homeowners seeking to minimize damage from harsh weather events.
1. Fiber-Cement Siding
Popularized by brands like James Hardie®, fiber-cement is a composite of Portland cement, sand, cellulose fibers, and proprietary binders. Laboratory impact tests show that 5/16″ thick boards withstand hail up to 1.75″ in diameter without cracking. Because the color is baked on, scratches are less visible than on vinyl. In short, it’s the closest thing to “hail armor” when it comes to siding options.
Fiber-cement siding is also fire-resistant, pest-resistant, and environmentally friendly, making it a versatile and sustainable option.
2. Alside ASCEND Composite Cladding
This premium siding option combines the classic charm of traditional wood with the resilience of modern materials, enhancing the curb appeal of any home. This innovative siding material is made from fiberglass-reinforced polymer, offering exceptional durability and aesthetic appeal. Combining the strength of fiberglass with the flexibility of polymer, Alside ASCEND is a product that is resistant to dents, scratches, and environmental wear. It is a perfect choice for homeowners looking for a high-performance siding option that combines traditional beauty with modern durability.
This type of siding is not only strong but also offers aesthetic flexibility, allowing homeowners to maintain a traditional wood look without sacrificing durability.
3. Premium Vinyl
Not all vinyl is created equal. Double-thick panels (0.046″ or greater) with acrylic modifiers resist cracking up to about 1.25″ hail. Though more affordable, vinyl remains vulnerable to larger stones and extreme temperature swings that make it brittle over time.
However, premium vinyl comes in a variety of colors and styles, making it an attractive option for those on a budget.
Beyond Siding: Fortifying Windows and Doors Against Hail
When hail cracks a windowpane, glass fragments can damage interior finishes or, worse, injure loved ones. Likewise, a compromised doorframe can admit wind-driven rain that leads to mold. Here’s how we eliminate those weak links:
- Impact-rated windows and doors. Laminated glass layers absorb strikes while maintaining clarity. Low-E coatings keep energy bills in check, offering long-term savings.
- Color-matched casings. We wrap exterior trim in PVC-coated aluminum so every seam ties into the siding’s water-management plane to prevent leaks and water damage.
This comprehensive fortification seals every possible vulnerability against the ravages of hail, rain, and wind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does hail-resistant siding cost significantly more?
Upfront, yes—about 15–25% over builder-grade vinyl. But when you add up costs over the product’s lifespan and potential claim savings, premium materials often prove less expensive per year of service.
Will my HOA allow fiber-cement or engineered wood?
Most Greater St. Louis HOAs approve them readily because they mimic traditional wood grain. We supply samples, color renderings, and code documentation to expedite approvals.
Can I keep my current windows and just upgrade siding?
If your windows are structurally sound and less than 15 years old, usually yes. But we recommend simultaneous flashing upgrades to maintain a continuous weather barrier. Our team can mix phases to match your budget.
Choosing a Partner: Why Siding Express?
We’re not a franchise or a storm-chasing crew that vanishes when the next weather system rolls in. We’re a locally rooted, family-owned company with nearly two decades of exclusive focus on the Greater St. Louis market. Our crews are extensively trained and background-checked. That means:
- Hands-on project management—frequent updates and you’ll never be “left in the dark” when it comes to your project.
- Registered installer status with James Hardie, Andersen, and ProVia.
- Transferable lifetime labor warranty—because a material warranty is only as good as its installation.
Our deep community roots ensure our commitment to your project’s success, providing reliability and a personalized approach that national chains simply can’t match.
Next Steps: From Vulnerable to Virtually Invincible
If you’re tired of waiting for the next hailstorm to decide your maintenance schedule, let’s flip the script. Here’s how:
- Schedule a Free Exterior Audit. It’s a no-pressure, 60-minute visit.
- Plan Your Project. We break down costs, timelines, and financing options.
- Transform Your Home. Pick your colors, sign the proposal, and lock in an installation date that fits your calendar.
You don’t need to go through the stress of every storm season worrying about your home’s exterior. With our expertise and comprehensive service, you can rest easy knowing your home is shielded against the elements.
Ready to Hail-Proof Your Curb Appeal?
Every season you wait is another season at the mercy of the Midwest sky. Join hundreds of Missouri homeowners who’ve swapped storm anxiety for lasting confidence. Request your free consultation today, and discover how Siding Express can upgrade your siding, windows, and doors into one seamless shield.
