The short answer
Initial Safety Is Your First Priority
Before attempting any repair trick, ensure the area is safe. Check for downed power lines, gas smells, and structural instability. If you suspect a gas leak, leave the property immediately and call the utility company from a safe distance. Never enter a building that appears significantly compromised.
Wear sturdy shoes, gloves, and protective eyewear when inspecting damage. Be aware of exposed nails, broken glass, and soaked electrical outlets. Keep children and pets away from the damaged zone. Your safety and that of your family comes before protecting property.
Temporary Roof and Window Coverings
A common trick is using heavy-duty tarps to cover roof holes or broken windows. Secure the tarp tightly with wooden battens or strips to prevent it from tearing in the wind. This temporary barrier stops rain from causing extensive interior water damage and mold growth.
For smaller openings, plywood can be nailed over broken windows or wall gaps. Ensure any temporary cover is sturdy. This is a critical holding action until a roofer or window professional can perform a proper, permanent repair.
- Use thick, waterproof tarps designed for temporary outdoor use.
- Secure tarps with 2x4 wooden strips, not just ropes.
- Overlap tarps by several feet for better coverage.
- Nail plywood from the outside edges inward.
- Seal edges with duct tape as a temporary moisture barrier.
- Check coverings after high winds and resecure if needed.
Mitigating Water Damage Quickly
If water has entered, move furnishings and valuables to a dry area. Use towels, mops, and wet vacuums to extract standing water. This helps limit secondary damage like warping floors and stained drywall. Place aluminum foil between wet carpet and furniture legs to prevent staining.
Increase airflow by opening windows and using fans, if it is safe and the electrical system is dry. Focus on drying out the structure. In some climates, natural drying can help, but professional drying equipment is often necessary for walls and subfloors to prevent hidden moisture and mold.
When to Call Different Professionals
Tricks are temporary. You need pros for permanent repairs. For structural damage, fallen trees, or major roof breaches, contact local water damage pros and a general contractor. They have the tools and knowledge to safely restore your home's integrity and prevent future issues.
Specific problems require specific trades. A plumber fixes broken pipes. An electrician addresses wiring hazards. A mold professional assesses fungal growth. Your insurance company may need documentation, but the pros handle the physical restoration work.
Document Everything for Your Records
Take extensive photos and videos of all damage before you move anything or make temporary repairs. This visual evidence is crucial for your insurance claim. Create a detailed list of damaged items, including descriptions, ages, and approximate values.
Keep all receipts for materials purchased for temporary repairs, like tarps, plywood, and tape. This may be reimbursable under your policy. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Thorough documentation supports your case during the claims process.
- Photograph structural damage from multiple angles.
- Video pan across each room to show overall condition.
- List model and serial numbers for damaged appliances.
- Save receipts for temporary repair supplies.
- Note the date and time damage was discovered.
- Keep a log of all conversations with insurance adjusters.
Water damage does not wait
Phones are answered 24/7 for Meridian and nearby communities.
Call Now (208) 537-2633Frequently asked questions
Will my homeowner's insurance cover tornado damage repairs?
Most standard policies cover wind and tornado damage to the structure and personal property. However, they often exclude flooding that may occur simultaneously. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Review your policy and speak directly with your insurance agent to understand your specific coverage and deductibles.
How long do I have to file an insurance claim after a tornado?
Time limits vary by policy and state. Most insurers require prompt notification, often within a few days to a week of the event. Check your policy documents for the specific deadline. It is wise to contact your insurance company as soon as it is safe to do so to start the process.
Can I stay in my home if it has tornado damage?
You may stay only if the home is structurally sound and has essential utilities like safe electricity and water. If there is major roof damage, broken windows, gas leaks, or sagging ceilings, it is not safe. Seek alternative lodging until a professional can assess and secure the property.