North Texas spring storms can drop hail with little warning. Roofs get most of the attention afterward, but walls take hits too. Stucco and EIFS react to hail in different ways, and some damage is easy to miss. If you are searching for stucco repair near me after hail, this guide explains what to look for, how to document it and how repairs usually come together.
Key takeaways
- EIFS tends to dent or puncture in hail; traditional stucco tends to chip or crack.
- Damage on the side of the building that faced the storm is often worst.
- Clear, dated photos help any insurance claim.
- Small punctures in EIFS should be sealed quickly so water can’t reach the foam.
How hail affects stucco and EIFS differently
Traditional stucco
Hard cement stucco usually resists small hail well. Large hail can chip the finish, leave small craters or open fine cracks, especially on older walls. Because the surface is hard, damage may look minor even when cracks reach deeper.
EIFS
EIFS has a thinner finish over foam board, so it is softer. Hail can leave round dents or punch through the finish into the foam. Even small holes matter, because they give water a direct path into the system.
Where to look after a storm
Wait until the storm has fully passed and it is safe to go outside. The federal Ready.gov severe weather page covers safety steps during and after storms. Then walk every side of the building.
- The walls that faced the wind during the storm.
- Lower walls near patios and entries, where hail bounces.
- Around window frames and trim bands.
- Below gutters and roof edges.
- Soft-looking spots on EIFS walls, even without visible holes.
- Light fixtures, vents and sealant joints that may have been knocked loose.
How to document damage for insurance
| What to capture | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| — | — |
| Wide photos of each wall | Shows where damage is on the building |
| Close-ups with a coin or ruler | Shows size of dents and holes |
| Date and time of the storm | Ties damage to a specific event |
| Damage to cars, sheds or roofs nearby | Supports that hail was large enough |
| Notes of any leaks inside | Shows the wall may be letting in water |
Tip: Take your photos at an angle, with the sun to one side. Low, angled light makes dents in EIFS much easier to see than straight-on shots at noon.
Is hail damage only cosmetic?
Sometimes it is. A few small chips on hard stucco may never cause a leak. But hail damage is not always obvious. Fine cracks in stucco and dents in EIFS can open paths for water that only show up months later as stains or soft spots. That is why it makes sense to have damage checked even if it looks small.
What storm repairs usually involve
- Assessment: a walk-around and, if needed, moisture readings near damaged areas.
- Temporary protection: sealing holes in EIFS if repairs can’t start right away.
- Repairs: cutting out and rebuilding damaged sections of stucco or EIFS.
- Finish matching: blending texture and color, or recoating the wall for an even look.
- Final check: confirming sealant joints and flashing are intact.
Working with your insurance company
Policies differ, so start by reading yours and contacting your insurer soon after the storm. An adjuster may visit to look at the damage. It helps to have a contractor who can explain what they found in plain terms and in writing. Mark Daniel Exteriors states that it works with your insurance, which can make the process smoother.
Why waiting can cost more
It is tempting to leave small dents or chips alone, especially when the roof needs work too. But hail damage on walls tends to get worse over time. Each rain can push a little more water through a dented EIFS finish or a fresh crack in stucco. In summer, the foam behind a punctured EIFS finish can also break down in the sun. Insurance policies often have time limits for reporting storm damage as well. Getting the walls checked within a few weeks of the storm, even if repairs come later, keeps your options open and stops small problems from spreading.
Avoiding storm-chasing problems
After big hailstorms, out-of-town crews sometimes go door to door. Take your time. Ask for a written scope, check that the company is insured and be cautious about large upfront payments. A local crew that knows stucco and EIFS will still be around if questions come up later.
Finding stucco repair near me after hail
Our team serves the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex and repairs both stucco and EIFS. Owner Mark Bakewell has more than 20 years of stucco experience and is certified with Dryvit systems. Learn more on our stucco repair page and our EIFS stucco page. If you also need help with siding or other exterior repairs after a storm, see our roofing, siding and exterior remodeling service.
Checking your walls after a hailstorm?
Send us your photos and the date of the storm.
FAQ
Does Mark Daniel Exteriors work with insurance companies?
The company states that it works with your insurance.
Does the company repair hail damage on EIFS?
EIFS stucco and stucco repair are both listed services, and the owner is certified with Dryvit systems.
Does the company handle other exterior storm repairs?
Roofing, siding and exterior remodeling are listed services, alongside stucco and EIFS work.
People Also Ask
Is hail damage to stucco only a cosmetic issue?
Not always. Chips may be cosmetic, but cracks in stucco and dents or holes in EIFS can let water into the wall, which can cause hidden damage over time.
Can stucco be damaged by hail without obvious cracks?
Yes. Fine cracks and small dents can be hard to see, especially in direct sun. Angled light, close inspection and moisture checks can reveal damage that isn’t obvious.
Does homeowners insurance typically cover hail damage to stucco?
Many policies cover sudden storm damage, but coverage, deductibles and exclusions vary. Check your own policy and contact your insurer soon after the storm.