A step-by-step checklist for Midwest homeowners to identify roof, siding, and window damage after winter—and before spring storms make it worse.

As winter transitions into spring across Illinois and Missouri, March is one of the most important times of year to evaluate your home’s exterior. Months of freezing temperatures, snow accumulation, and harsh winds can cause hidden damage that often goes unnoticed until it becomes a costly problem.

For Midwest homeowners, a detailed exterior inspection in March helps identify winter-related issues early and prepares your home for the upcoming storm season. This guide will walk you through exactly what to look for and how to perform a proper post-storm inspection.

Why March Is the Best Time for an Exterior Inspection

March is unique because it sits between two critical periods:

• End of winter damage accumulation
• Beginning of spring storm season

In the Midwest, your home has just endured:

• Freeze-thaw cycles that expand and contract materials
• Ice buildup and potential ice damming
• Heavy snow loads
• Early spring wind and hail storms

Catching damage now prevents:

• Water intrusion
• Structural deterioration
• Expensive emergency repairs later in the year

omplete Exterior Home Inspection Checklist

Roof Inspection

Your roof is the most exposed part of your home and typically takes the most damage during winter.

What to Look For:

• Missing or blown-off shingles
• Curling or cracked shingles
• Granule loss (check gutters and downspouts)
• Soft spots or sagging areas
• Damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights

Midwest-Specific Issue:

Ice dams can force water under shingles, leading to leaks that may not show up until months later.

Siding Inspection

Siding plays a critical role in protecting your home from moisture and weather exposure.

What to Look For:

• Cracks or splits from cold temperatures
• Loose or detached panels
• Warping or bubbling
• Hail dents or impact marks
• Fading or discoloration

Why It Matters:

Damaged siding can allow water to penetrate behind your walls, leading to mold, rot, and insulation damage.

Window Inspection

Windows are one of the most common sources of energy loss and can deteriorate quickly after winter.

What to Look For:

• Drafts or noticeable temperature differences
• Condensation between glass panes
• Cracked glass or damaged frames
• Difficulty opening or closing
• Worn or cracked caulking

Key Insight:

Inefficient windows can significantly increase heating and cooling costs if not addressed.

Gutters & Drainage

Gutters are essential for directing water away from your home.

What to Look For:

• Clogged gutters filled with debris
• Sagging or detached sections
• Improper drainage or pooling water near foundation
• Damage from ice buildup

Risk:

Poor drainage can lead to foundation issues, basement leaks, and long-term structural damage.

Structural & Trim Areas

Don’t overlook these important areas:

Check:

• Fascia and soffit for rot or holes
• Trim boards for cracking or peeling paint
• Foundation for cracks or water pooling
• Decks and porches for signs of wear

Post-Storm Damage Checklist (Step-by-Step)

After any major storm, you should perform a focused inspection to identify new damage.

Step 1: Ground-Level Inspection

Look For:

• Shingles or siding pieces in your yard
• Fallen branches or debris
• Damage to nearby homes

If your neighbors have damage, there’s a strong chance your home does too.

Step 2: Roof Damage Check

Signs of Damage:

• Dark spots or bruising from hail
• Missing shingles
• Lifted or creased shingles
• Exposed roofing materials

Even minor damage can shorten the lifespan of your roof significantly.

Step 3: Siding Damage Check

Look For:

• Dents from hail impact
• Cracks from wind-driven debris
• Panels pulled loose by strong winds

Step 4: Windows & Glass

Check For:

• Cracks or chips
• Broken seals (foggy glass)
• Water intrusion

Step 5: Interior Warning Signs

Sometimes damage isn’t obvious from outside.

Check Inside For:

• Ceiling stains
• Bubbling or peeling paint
• Moisture in attic spaces

When to Call a Professional

You should schedule a professional inspection if:

• Your area experienced hail or strong winds
• You notice missing roofing or siding materials
• You suspect hidden damage
• You are considering filing an insurance claim



A professional can:

• Identify damage you may miss
• Document issues for insurance
• Recommend the best course of action

Insurance Considerations

Timing matters when it comes to storm damage claims.

Important Points:

• Most policies have time limits for filing claims
• Damage must be properly documented
• Delays can result in denied claims

Getting an inspection soon after a storm increases your chances of a successful claim.

Preventative Maintenance Tips

Roofing

• Schedule annual inspections
• Address minor issues before they worsen

Siding

• Repair cracks or loose panels quickly
• Consider insulated siding upgrades

Windows

• Replace failing seals early
• Upgrade to energy-efficient models when needed

Gutters

• Clean regularly
• Ensure proper drainage away from foundation

Why This Matters for Midwest Homeowners

Homes in Illinois and Missouri are exposed to:

• Extreme temperature swings
• Frequent storms
• High winds and hail

Ignoring small issues now often leads to:

• Major repairs later
• Interior water damage
• Higher energy bills

Final Thoughts

March is your opportunity to get ahead of problems before spring storms make them worse. A thorough exterior inspection and a clear post-storm checklist can protect your home, your finances, and your peace of mind.

Schedule Your Exterior Inspection

If you’re in the Peoria, IL or St. Charles, MO area, now is the time to schedule a professional inspection. Catching issues early can save you thousands and ensure your home is fully protected heading into storm season.

Sources

• https://www.weather.gov/safety
• https://www.fema.gov
• https://ibhs.org
• https://www.energy.gov
• https://www.energystar.gov
• https://www.nrca.net
• https://www.iii.org