The short answer
Common Wind Damage to Your Home
High winds can pull shingles from your roof or lift entire sections. Siding may be torn away, exposing the wall structure underneath. Windows can shatter from airborne debris, and doors may be forced out of their frames. This type of damage directly compromises your home's ability to keep out rain and snow.
Fences, gutters, and outdoor structures like sheds are also vulnerable. Fallen tree limbs are a frequent cause of damage during wind storms. Intense seasonal storms in various climates can make these repairs necessary for any home.
Immediate Steps After Wind Damage
Your first priority is safety. Avoid going outside if debris is still falling. Carefully inspect your home's exterior from a safe distance, looking for obvious holes, missing materials, or broken glass. If you see severe structural damage, it's best to stay away from that area until a professional can assess it.
Take photos of all the damage from multiple angles for your records. If it is safe to do so, cover any holes in your roof or walls with a tarp to prevent water from getting inside. This quick action can limit secondary water damage while you arrange for repairs.
- Document all visible damage with clear photographs.
- Temporarily cover broken windows with plywood or plastic.
- Secure a tarp over holes in the roof if it is safe.
- Move any outdoor furniture or debris away from the house.
- Check your attic for signs of water intrusion.
- Locate your main water and electrical shutoffs in case of leaks.
Professional Assessment and Repairs
Local water damage pros are often called after wind events because broken windows or a damaged roof let water in. They focus on stopping the water flow, drying the structure, and preventing mold. Their work creates a dry, stable environment so other trades can safely make permanent repairs to the home's exterior.
A roofer may be needed to replace shingles or decking. A carpenter might repair framing or siding. An electrician should check any exposed wiring. The sequence of repairs usually starts with making the structure watertight, then addressing any interior water damage, and finally completing the cosmetic and structural exterior work.
Water Damage from Wind Compromise
Wind damage itself is often dry, but the resulting water intrusion is the real threat. Rain entering through a compromised roof or wall can soak insulation, drywall, and flooring within hours. This moisture creates an ideal environment for mold growth, which can start in as little as 24 to 48 hours under the right conditions.
That's why a tarp is a critical temporary fix. If water does get in, the pros use industrial equipment like air movers and dehumidifiers to dry the area thoroughly. They may need to remove and replace wet building materials that cannot be salvaged to ensure your home is structurally sound and healthy.
If water does get in, water damage restoration is needed. The pros use industrial equipment like air movers and dehumidifiers to dry the area thoroughly. They may need to remove and replace wet building materials that cannot be salvaged. This ensures your home is structurally sound and healthy.
Insurance and Repair Costs
The cost to fix wind damage depends heavily on the extent. A few missing shingles may be a minor repair, while a tree through the roof is a major project. Costs often range from a few hundred dollars for simple fixes to many thousands for extensive structural and water damage restoration. The materials affected and the home's size are key factors.
If you have homeowner's insurance, wind damage is often a covered peril, but you should check your specific policy details. File a claim with your insurer promptly and provide the photos and documentation you collected. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Keep all receipts for temporary repairs, as they may be reimbursable.
Water damage does not wait
Every hour counts once water gets into floors and walls. One call starts the response.
Call Now (208) 537-2633Frequently asked questions
Does homeowners insurance cover wind damage repairs?
Most standard policies cover sudden wind damage, but you must check your specific policy for exclusions or a separate wind deductible. Always document the damage thoroughly and contact your insurer to start the claims process. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Can I make temporary wind repairs myself?
You can perform basic temporary fixes if it is safe, like covering a broken window with plywood or a hole with a tarp. However, for anything involving height, structural integrity, or utilities, it is safer to wait for a professional. Your safety is the most important factor.
How does wind damage lead to water damage?
Wind breaks the protective seals of your home. A damaged roof, broken window, or torn siding allows rain and melting snow to enter. This water then soaks into walls, ceilings, and floors, requiring professional drying to prevent rot, structural weakening, and mold growth.