- Binoculars for upper walls
- Notebook or phone for dated photos
- Flashlight
Why Annapolis is hard on siding
Annapolis sits on the Chesapeake Bay with the Severn River, Spa Creek and Back Creek wrapping around it. That means exposed shoreline walls take wind straight off the water, humid air keeps shaded walls damp, and storms arrive with strong gusts and heavy rain. Winters add freeze-thaw cycles that make older vinyl brittle.
What each season does to siding
| Season | Typical hazard | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Heavy rain, wind, rising humidity | Loose panels, caulk, gutters, mildew |
| Summer | Thunderstorms, hail, heat, humidity | Warping, cracks from impact, moisture |
| Fall | Hurricane remnants, nor’easters, falling limbs | Torn or missing panels, flashing |
| Winter | Cold snaps, ice, nor’easters | Brittle and cracked vinyl, ice damage near gutters |
Local history: the 2021 Annapolis tornado
On September 1, 2021, the remnants of Ida produced an EF-2 tornado that tore through Annapolis and nearby Anne Arundel County neighborhoods, with winds reported at 125 mph over a path of about 11 miles. It damaged homes, tore roofs and stripped siding, and left some residents with extensive repairs. It is a reminder that Annapolis can see severe wind damage, not just routine storms. Details on the event were reported by the National Weather Service and local news outlets.
Hurricanes and flooding
Hurricane Isabel in 2003 brought storm surge that flooded downtown Annapolis, showing how water from the Bay can reach low-lying streets and homes. Even without a direct hit, hurricane remnants bring wind and rain, and low walls near the ground can be hit by splashing water and debris.
Nor’easters
A nor’easter can bring hours of strong wind and driven rain, which is how water gets behind siding that looks fine. Walls facing northeast and east take the worst of it, and shoreline homes in places like Eastport, Annapolis Roads and Bay Ridge are the most exposed.
A seasonal siding checklist for Annapolis homeowners
- Spring: check seals and gutters. After winter, check caulk, flashing and gutters, wash off mildew and re-nail any loose panels.
- Early summer: trim trees. Cut back limbs that could hit the house, and clear debris from the base of the walls.
- Before hurricane season: walk the house. Look for loose or cracked pieces on the walls that face the Bay and fix them before storm season starts.
- After any major storm: inspect and photograph. Check every wall, including upper floors with binoculars, and take dated photos for any claim.
- Late fall: prepare for cold. Fix cracked vinyl before cold makes it brittle, and check that gutters drain away from the walls.
After a storm
Make the area safe first, photograph the damage, cover any opening and call for help. Our guide on what to do after storm damage to siding has the full steps, and our insurance guide explains the claim side. For urgent repairs, see emergency storm damage siding repair.
Sources
Storm facts above come from news coverage of the September 1, 2021 tornado by CBS Baltimore, NBC Washington and WUSA9, and from National Weather Service reporting. For official alerts, follow Anne Arundel County and the City of Annapolis emergency alerts.
Frequently asked questions
Does Annapolis get tornadoes?
Rarely, but it does happen. An EF-2 tornado from the remnants of Ida struck Annapolis on September 1, 2021, causing widespread damage.
Which Annapolis walls take the most weather damage?
Walls facing the Bay and the prevailing winds, plus shaded walls that stay damp. Shoreline homes are generally the most exposed.
When is storm season for siding in Maryland?
Hurricane season runs June through November, with thunderstorms common in summer and nor'easters most frequent in fall through early spring.
Should I check siding every year?
Yes. A spring and fall walk-around, plus a check after any big storm, catches loose panels and water entry before they grow.
Keep reading
- What to Do After Storm Damage to Your Siding
- Common Causes of Siding Damage (and How to Prevent Them)
- Emergency storm damage siding repair
Need hands-on help? StormGuard Siding provides emergency siding repair in Annapolis, MD, and the neighborhoods we cover are listed on our service areas page. Quick answers are on our FAQs page.