In the Triangle, the “storm damage” often shows up after the storm when snow melts, refreezes, and sends water into places it usually doesn’t go. A quick walkthrough can help you catch small issues before they become drywall repairs, trim rot, or recurring leaks.
Safety first
- Stay off the roof and avoid icy ladders.
- If you see downed power lines or electrical hazards, keep your distance and call the utility company.
Exterior checklist (10 minutes, ground-level)
- Gutters and downspouts: look for sagging sections, separated joints, and downspouts that dumped water against the foundation.
- Splash zones: check fascia/soffit edges for new staining or peeling paint.
- Siding and trim: look for loose panels, gaps at corners, or trim boards that shifted.
- Window sills: new bubbling paint or soft wood can be an early sign of water intrusion.
- Doors: swelling can cause doors to stick or not latch, often fixable with adjustments.
- Decks/porches: test railings and steps for wobble; freeze thaw can loosen fasteners.
- Fences and gates: wind and wet soil can lean posts and sag gates.
- Outdoor spigots: check for cracks or dripping after the thaw.
- Foundation vents/crawlspace doors: make sure they’re secure (and not letting cold air blast plumbing).
- Drainage paths: confirm meltwater has somewhere to go away from the house.
Interior checklist (look, touch, smell)
- Ceilings under bathrooms for new spots or rings
- Corners of exterior rooms for damp drywall
- Baseboards for swelling or separation
- Floors near exterior walls for cupping/softness
- Closets on exterior walls (often colder; plumbing and drywall issues hide here)
- Attic access: look for wet insulation, dark spots, or drips around vent pipes
What to do if you find something
- Take a photo.
- Identify whether it’s active (wet now) or historic (old stain).
- If water is active, stop the source first (often a plumber/roofer depending on location).
- Then plan repairs to restore the finishes and prevent repeat damage.
How Ace Handyman Services can help after a storm
We can handle the practical repairs that keep small problems from turning into bigger ones: gutter fixes, siding/trim repair, deck and railing repairs, fence repairs, drywall patching (including paint-ready finishes), and door adjustments.
Need an expert opinion? Call (984) 338-8643 or request an estimate online.
FAQs
Q: Where does hidden storm damage show up first?
A: Ceilings under bathrooms, around windows, at baseboards, and in attics/crawlspaces are common early warning spots.
Q: Do I need to get on the roof to inspect?
A: No, stay safe. Many issues can be spotted from the ground, attic, or by checking interior staining.
Q: Can you help with a post-storm punch list?
A: Yes, handyman repairs like gutters, trim, doors, decking, fencing, and drywall are common post-storm needs.
Get an estimate online or call Ace Handyman Services Greater Triangle and Johnston County at (984) 338-8643.