What Temporary Repairs Can I Make After a Storm?

After a storm, inspect your roof from the ground for missing shingles or visible holes. If safe, you can temporarily cover damaged areas with a heavy-duty tarp, securing it tightly with nails or straps over the roofing material. This prevents rain from entering your attic and causing extensive water damage inside the walls and ceilings.

For larger openings, like those from fallen branches, use plywood cut to size as a more rigid barrier. Ensure all edges are sealed against wind uplift. While these measures are not permanent, they are crucial for mitigating damage until a professional roof repair can be scheduled.

If water is actively entering, place buckets or bins under leaks to catch dripping water. Move furniture, rugs, and electronics away from wet areas immediately. For water coming in under doors or through walls, use towels, old blankets, or even sandbags to create a dam and absorb the moisture.

Act quickly to dry wet surfaces with mops and towels. If you have power and it is safe, use fans and dehumidifiers to increase air circulation. Removing standing water and promoting drying helps limit secondary damage like mold growth before the pros can perform a full assessment.

• Place containers under all active drips from the ceiling.
• Use towels or absorbent mats to soak up pooled water on floors.
• Move valuable items and furniture to a dry room immediately.
• Run fans to circulate air if electrical outlets are safe and dry.
• Wipe down wet walls and baseboards to prevent wicking.
• Monitor for new leaks, as water can travel far from the original entry point.

Safely clear smaller debris from your yard, driveway, and roof gutters. This prevents blockages that cause water to pool against your foundation or overflow into your home. Wear sturdy gloves and boots for protection. Be cautious of hidden nails, glass, or downed power lines mixed in with the debris.

Document all damage with photos and notes for your insurance claim. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Once temporary measures are in place, contact local water damage pros for a thorough assessment and permanent restoration. They have the tools to find hidden moisture and properly dry your home's structure.

• Wear protective gloves, long sleeves, and closed-toe shoes when handling debris.
• Take clear photographs of all storm damage, both inside and outside.
• Keep notes detailing when damage was discovered and temporary repairs made.
• Clear gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage away from the house.
• Avoid moving large or heavy debris that could cause injury.
• Secure or mark hazardous areas, like hanging gutters, to prevent accidents.