The short answer
Start with Safety
Before anything else, make sure everyone in your home is safe. Turn off the electricity in affected rooms if water is near outlets or appliances. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, leave the house and call the utility company from outside.
Water from storms can hide hazards like sharp debris or slippery floors. Wear sturdy shoes and gloves when you move around. If you feel unwell or have trouble breathing, see a doctor. Your health comes before any repair work.
Stop the Water Source
Find where the water is coming from and stop it if you can. If a window or roof gap lets in rain, cover it with a tarp or plywood. If a pipe burst during the storm, shut off the main water valve. In Rowlett, keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can find it fast.
The pros will handle the bigger tasks, like securing a damaged roof or repairing a broken pipe. You can start by moving furniture and valuables out of the wet area. The sooner the water stops, the less damage your home takes.
Dry Out and Remove Damaged Materials
Once the water is under control, dry the space as much as possible. Open windows if the outside air is dry, and run fans or a dehumidifier. Pull up wet carpet and padding, and remove soaked drywall or insulation. These materials can hold moisture and grow mold if left wet.
The pros use industrial fans and dehumidifiers to dry structures thoroughly. They also remove debris and dispose of damaged items. Do not try to save porous things like mattresses or upholstered furniture that got soaked; they are hard to clean and can harbor mold.
Turn off power in wet rooms before entering.
Wear gloves and boots for protection.
Move electronics and documents to a dry spot.
Cut away wet drywall about 12 inches above the water line.
Take photos of damage for your records.
Ventilate the area to speed up drying.
Rebuild and Repair
After the space is dry, the repair work begins. The pros replace drywall, repair or replace flooring, and fix any structural damage. They also check for mold in hidden spots like wall cavities and attics. If mold is found, a mold professional should handle the cleanup.
Roof repairs or replacements may be needed if the storm tore off shingles or damaged flashing. Door frames and cabinets that warped from moisture might need attention. A drywall water damage repair service can restore walls to their original condition.
Drywall replacement for water-stained walls and ceilings.
Roof repair or replacement for storm damage.
Concrete repair for cracked foundations or driveways.
Door frame repair for swollen or rotting frames.
Cabinet repair or restoration for kitchen and bath units.
Work with Your Insurance
Check your homeowner's policy to see what hurricane damage is covered. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Document everything with photos and keep receipts for any materials you buy. Report the damage to your insurance company as soon as possible.
The pros can give you a detailed assessment of what needs fixing, which helps when you talk to your insurer. They do not handle claims for you, but their report can support your case. Ask your insurance company about deadlines for filing a claim.
Water damage does not wait
Phones are answered 24/7 for Rowlett and nearby communities.
Call Now (214) 730-5993Frequently asked questions
How long does hurricane repair take?
The timeline depends on the extent of the damage and the size of your home. Small fixes like a leaky faucet may take a day, while major drywall and roof work can take weeks. The pros will give you a realistic schedule after assessing the damage.
Can I do the cleanup myself?
You can remove personal items and dry small areas, but structural drying and mold prevention require professional equipment. The pros have industrial air movers and moisture meters to ensure everything is dry. Trying to handle large water damage alone can lead to mold and hidden issues.
What should I do first after a hurricane?
First, make sure you and your family are safe. Turn off electricity in wet areas and stop the water source if you can. Then document the damage with photos and contact your insurance company. Finally, reach out to local water damage pros to start the drying and repair process.