Why Storm Season Puts Your Siding to the Test
September brings strong winds, heavy rain, and flying debris across New Jersey. Siding takes the first hit when storms arrive, and its job is to protect the home’s structure from water intrusion and impact damage.
Once siding weakens, water can find its way behind the panels and into the walls. That’s when bigger problems start.
Dream Home Roofing has repaired and replaced siding for decades across New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. Our crews see the same pattern every storm season—homeowners who act early avoid costly structural repairs later.
Storm-Season Siding Protection Guide for New Jersey
| Category | Key Points | Benefits / Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Proactive Steps Before Storms | • Trim trees and remove loose items • Clean gutters and downspouts • Schedule siding inspections • Upgrade to storm-rated siding (James Hardie, CertainTeed) |
Prevents flying debris damage, water overflow, and costly emergency repairs |
| Why Professional Installation Matters | • Proper fastening (CertiLock, SureStop) prevents wind uplift • Experienced crews seal gaps and joints • Dream Home Roofing trained in all major siding systems |
Panels stay secure in high winds, reduced water intrusion, siding performs to manufacturer specs |
| Why Choose Dream Home Roofing | • Licensed & insured in NJ, NY, PA, CT • 50+ years of combined family experience • Certified in James Hardie & CertainTeed siding • Flexible financing and free estimates • Serving Hamilton, Trenton, Freehold, Edison, Newark |
Professional service, storm-rated products, and trusted local expertise |
| FAQs | • Insurance often covers storm damage • James Hardie and CertainTeed Cedar Impressions/Monogram perform best in high winds • Individual panel repair possible, full wall replacement if widespread damage • Storm-rated siding lasts decades in NJ climate • Emergency siding repair available after storms |
Homeowners know what to expect, gain confidence in coverage and product durability |
What Type of Siding Performs Best in NJ Storms?
Fiber cement siding from James Hardie sets the standard for storm performance. It is non-combustible, engineered for climate, and resists fire, water, pests, and extreme weather.
Designed to hold up against blistering sun, hurricane-force winds, and heavy moisture, it’s a reliable choice for long-term protection.
CertainTeed also offers premium siding lines with impressive storm ratings. Cedar Impressions withstands winds up to 300 MPH, making it one of the strongest options available. Monogram, CertainTeed’s flagship horizontal siding, is certified up to 210 MPH winds and comes in over 40 colors for homeowners who want durability and style.
CedarBoards insulated siding adds another layer of value. With 1¼-inch backing, it improves energy efficiency while reducing noise inside the home.
Common Storm-Related Siding Damage in New Jersey
Storm damage to siding comes in several forms. Wind-driven debris often cracks or punctures panels. Strong gusts can loosen boards or warp sections of vinyl and fiber cement.
Once gaps form, water infiltrates the wall cavity. That leads to mold, rot, and hidden damage that grows worse with time.
Many homeowners don’t notice damage until they spot water stains on interior walls or smell mold indoors. By then, repairs become more extensive. Acting right after a storm keeps the problem contained.
How to Inspect Your Siding After a Storm
Start with a careful walk-around. Look for cracks, dents, or entire panels missing. Pay close attention to corners, siding edges, and where the roof meets the wall—those spots often show the first signs of failure.
Check the foundation line for water pooling or splashing against damaged boards. Inside the home, watch for discoloration on ceilings or walls, musty odors, or peeling paint near exterior walls. Those are signals that water has already made its way in.
A quick inspection is helpful, but nothing replaces a licensed professional’s eye. Dream Home Roofing provides storm damage inspections backed by experience in siding and storm restoration. A professional inspection can confirm if you need repairs, replacements, or an insurance claim.
Proactive Steps to Protect Your Siding Before the Next Storm
Protecting your siding before the storm hits saves money and stress. Start with your yard. Trim back trees and branches that could snap and strike the house. Secure or store outdoor furniture, grills, and loose items so they don’t turn into projectiles.
Keep gutters and downspouts clear. Overflowing water during heavy rain can back up and seep into siding panels. A quick cleaning before the storm season goes a long way.
Schedule a professional siding inspection. Small gaps or loose panels often become major openings once high winds arrive. For properties with older siding, upgrading to storm-rated products like James Hardie fiber cement or CertainTeed’s impact-resistant lines can provide better protection against New Jersey’s fall storms.
Why Professional Siding Installation Matters During Storm Season
High-performance siding is only as strong as its installation. Proper fastening systems, such as CertainTeed’s CertiLock and SureStop, are designed to resist wind uplift. When installed correctly, siding panels stay in place even during hurricane-level gusts.
Experienced installers also minimize gaps that allow water intrusion. Poorly sealed edges or misaligned joints are weak points during storms. Dream Home Roofing’s crews are trained in every major siding system and know how to install them to manufacturer standards. That knowledge keeps homes safer during storm season.
Why Choose Dream Home Roofing for Storm-Ready Siding in NJ
Dream Home Roofing is licensed and insured across New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. Our family-run business brings over fifty years of combined experience to every project.
We are certified to install James Hardie fiber cement and CertainTeed siding, giving homeowners access to products designed for severe weather. Our team provides free estimates, flexible financing, and clear communication from start to finish.
From Hamilton and Trenton to Freehold, Edison, and Newark, we’ve helped homeowners protect their properties against storm damage. Our combination of product knowledge and installation expertise makes us a trusted resource for siding services in the region.
FAQ: Storm Season and Siding in New Jersey
How do I know if storm damage to siding is covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your policy and the type of damage. Most policies cover sudden events like wind or hail. A professional inspection provides the documentation needed for claims.
What siding holds up best against high winds?
James Hardie fiber cement and CertainTeed’s Cedar Impressions (rated up to 300 MPH) and Monogram (210 MPH) are excellent options for storm resistance.
Can you repair individual siding panels, or does the whole wall need replacement?
In many cases, damaged panels can be replaced individually. If widespread damage exists, a full section or wall replacement may be more cost-effective.
How long does storm-resistant siding last in NJ’s climate?
High-quality siding can last decades when installed correctly. James Hardie fiber cement is designed to resist water, pests, and fire, while CertainTeed products come with lifetime warranties.
Do you offer emergency siding repair after a storm?
Yes. Dream Home Roofing provides fast-response service for storm-damaged siding, including emergency inspections and repairs.
Protect Your Home With Storm-Ready Siding Today
Storm season is already here, and siding damage only gets worse if ignored. Acting now protects your home’s structure and prevents costly water repairs.
Call Dream Home Roofing at (609) 379-9816 or request a free inspection online at www.dhroof.com.
One appointment today can spare you from expensive siding replacements tomorrow.
