The short answer
What Happens During a Storm Cleanup
The process begins with a safety assessment of your property. The pros look for hazards like downed power lines, structural instability, or contaminated water. They secure the area to prevent accidents before any cleanup work starts. This initial step protects everyone involved and guides the restoration plan.
Next, the removal of water and storm debris is a priority. The pros use pumps and extractors for standing water in basements or living areas. They clear broken branches, shattered glass, and other wreckage from your yard and roof. This clears the way for a thorough inspection of the damage to your home's structure and contents.
- Safety inspection for electrical and structural hazards
- Water extraction using industrial pumps and vacuums
- Debris removal from the property and roof
- Board-up of broken windows or compromised walls
- Initial drying of wet building materials
- Inventory of damaged personal belongings
Common Types of Storm Damage
Wind can cause extensive damage by tearing off roofing materials, breaking windows, and toppling trees onto structures. This often allows rain to enter, leading to immediate water damage inside walls and ceilings. The force can also compromise the structural integrity of siding, gutters, and decks.
Heavy rainfall and flooding often overwhelm drainage systems, leading to water intrusion. This can result in a flooded basement or standing water in crawl spaces. Hailstorms can pockmark and crack roofing shingles, siding, and skylights, creating hidden leaks that cause problems days later. The extent of damage can vary greatly depending on the storm's severity and duration.
The Drying and Dehumidification Process
After water removal, hidden moisture remains in walls, floors, and insulation. The pros set up industrial air movers and dehumidifiers to dry these materials completely. They monitor moisture levels with specialized meters to ensure the drying is effective. Proper drying is critical to prevent mold and wood rot.
This phase may involve removing baseboards, drilling small holes in walls, or lifting sections of flooring to promote airflow. The equipment runs continuously for several days. The pros adjust the setup as areas dry, targeting the wettest spots first to stabilize the environment.
Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Repairs
Stormwater is often contaminated with dirt, bacteria, or chemicals from outside. All affected surfaces need professional cleaning and sanitizing. This includes walls, floors, and any salvageable furniture or belongings. The pros use EPA-registered antimicrobial solutions to address potential health risks.
Once the area is clean and dry, repair and reconstruction work can begin. This may involve replacing drywall, insulation, and flooring. It also includes repairing or replacing damaged roofing, siding, or windows to restore your home's exterior envelope and protect it from future weather.
- Antimicrobial treatment of affected surfaces
- Content cleaning for salvageable items
- Odor removal using air scrubbers or ozone machines
- Drywall and insulation replacement
- Flooring repair or replacement
- Exterior repairs to roof, siding, or windows
Working with Your Insurance Company
After a storm, you should contact your insurance company to start a claim. Document the damage thoroughly with photos and videos before any cleanup begins. Keep a detailed list of damaged or destroyed items for your adjuster. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
The pros can provide you with a detailed report and documentation of the work needed. You can submit this to your insurance company as part of your claim. It's important to understand your policy's deductible and coverage limits for storm-related repairs. Keeping organized records helps the claims process move forward.
Water damage does not wait
Phones are answered 24/7 for Meridian and nearby communities.
Call Now (208) 537-2633Frequently asked questions
What should I do right after a storm damages my home?
First, ensure everyone's safety and avoid electrical hazards. If it's safe, stop further water entry by covering broken windows or roofs with tarps. Take photos for insurance, then contact local water damage pros for an assessment. Move undamaged belongings to a dry area.
Can storm damage cause mold?
Yes, if wet materials are not dried completely within 24 to 48 hours, mold can begin to grow. Professional drying targets hidden moisture in walls and under floors to prevent this. If you see or smell mold later, a mold assessment professional can provide guidance.
Who handles the fallen trees and yard debris?
Local water damage pros typically handle debris directly related to the home's structure, like branches on the roof. For large tree removal or major yard cleanups, they can coordinate with or recommend a qualified tree service professional to safely clear the property.