The short answer
Start with a Safe Roof Inspection
Begin by looking at your roof from the ground using binoculars. Look for missing, cracked, or lifted shingles, especially along the edges. Check for dents on metal flashing or vents. If you notice any debris like branches on the roof, it could have punctured the surface. Never climb onto a wet or damaged roof yourself, as it is unsafe.
Signs of roof damage often lead to water intrusion. Even small gaps can let rain seep into your attic and walls. If you suspect a problem, contact local water damage pros for a professional inspection. They can assess the extent of the issue and recommend the next steps to prevent further damage to your home.
Examine Your Home's Exterior Walls
Walk around your home's perimeter and closely inspect the siding and brickwork. Strong winds can drive rain behind siding or crack mortar joints. Look for new gaps, loose panels, or areas that appear damp. Pay special attention to corners and areas under eaves where wind pressure is high. These breaches are common entry points for water during subsequent rain.
Check all window and door frames for cracks or separation from the wall. Feel for drafts, which indicate broken seals. Damaged seals allow moisture to infiltrate your walls, leading to hidden mold and rot. If you find issues, sealing them quickly is important. A professional can help determine if structural repairs are needed beyond simple caulking.
- Missing or cracked siding panels
- Loose or damaged trim and fascia boards
- Cracked or crumbling mortar between bricks
- Dented or bent gutters and downspouts
- Windows or doors that no longer close properly
- Visible gaps where different materials meet
Look for Interior Water Stains
Inside your home, check ceilings and walls, particularly in top-floor rooms and directly under the roof. Water stains often appear as brownish rings or yellow discolorations. Feel drywall for soft spots or a spongy texture, which suggests absorbed moisture. Peeling paint or bubbling wallpaper are also clear indicators of a leak. These signs can appear hours or days after the storm.
Do not forget to inspect your attic. Use a flashlight to look for damp insulation, stained rafters, or daylight coming through the roof deck. A musty odor is a strong clue of existing moisture. Catching these interior signs early helps limit the damage. It informs the scope of work needed when you call for a professional assessment.
Assess Property and Landscaping Damage
Walk your entire yard to identify hazards. Fallen trees or large limbs can damage roofs, fences, and exterior HVAC units. Look for shifted patio furniture or play structures that may have struck your home. Check for standing water near your foundation, which can be caused by clogged or damaged drainage systems. This pooling water poses a serious risk of foundation seepage.
Examine outbuildings like sheds, garages, and detached carports. Their often lighter construction makes them vulnerable. Damage here can also impact your main home if they are connected or if debris is blown against it. Secure any loose items to prevent further harm. Document all damage with photos for your records and for potential insurance discussions.
When to Call a Water Damage Professional
If you see any signs of water intrusion, such as active drips, swollen wood, or wet drywall, it is time to call for help. Hidden moisture inside walls and ceilings can lead to mold growth within 24 to 48 hours. Local water damage pros have tools like moisture meters and thermal cameras to find water you cannot see. They can create a drying plan specific to your home.
Even if the damage seems minor, a professional inspection provides peace of mind. They can identify compromised structural elements that might fail later. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Having a professional report can be useful when filing a claim. Acting quickly helps restore your home to a safe, dry condition.
- You see active water leaking inside your home
- You discover soft, sagging, or stained ceilings or walls
- A musty odor develops in any room after the storm
- Your attic insulation is damp or compressed
- You find mold growth, which appears as fuzzy spots
- Windows or doors are warped and will not shut
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Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
What if I can't see any damage right after the storm?
Some damage, like a compromised roof seal or hairline crack, may not be visible immediately. Check again over the next few days, especially after it rains. Look for new interior stains or a musty smell, which are signs of a slow leak.
Does homeowners insurance cover wind storm damage?
Many standard policies cover wind damage to the structure and may cover resulting water damage. However, policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Review your policy's declarations page and contact your agent directly to understand your specific coverage and deductibles.
Can I make temporary repairs myself?
You can take safe, temporary measures like placing a tarp over a damaged roof section or using buckets for active leaks. This can prevent further damage. Always prioritize safety and avoid electrical hazards. Permanent repairs should be handled by qualified professionals.