Big storms can leave more behind than just fallen branches and soaked yards — they often cause hidden water damage that can lead to mold, structural issues, and costly repairs if not caught early. As a homeowner in Covington, KY, knowing exactly where to check for storm-related water damage can save you time, money, and stress.
At A+ Restoration, we specialize in storm damage cleanup and restoration, and we’ve helped hundreds of families recover after heavy rain, wind, and hail events. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of where to look for water damage after the storm passes.
Table of Contents
1. Roof and Attic: The First Line of Defense
Storms can loosen shingles, damage flashing, or puncture your roof with falling limbs — which leads to water seeping into your attic and eventually down into your home.
What to check:
- Missing or curled shingles
- Water stains on the ceiling or attic floor
- Wet insulation or musty smells
- Mold or mildew on wooden beams
PAA: Can a small roof leak cause water damage?
Yes — even a tiny leak can cause mold, rot, and structural weakening over time if left untreated.
If you find roof damage, A+ Restoration offers emergency storm damage cleanup services to stop the leak and start drying out your home.
2. Ceilings and Walls: Signs of a Leak Inside
Water that enters through the roof or windows will often show up as stains or bubbling on interior walls and ceilings. Don’t ignore even small changes — they’re often early signs of deeper issues.
Look for:
- Yellow or brown stains on the ceiling
- Bubbling or peeling paint
- Warped drywall or soft spots
- Cracks that weren’t there before
PAA: How do I know if my wall has water damage?
Discoloration, soft areas, and a musty smell are key indicators. You may also notice a squishy feel when pressing on the wall.
3. Windows and Doors: Common Entry Points for Rainwater
Improperly sealed or aging windows and doors are easy access points for stormwater — especially during high winds or sideways rain.
Check for:
- Moisture or fog between double-pane windows
- Water pooling on window sills
- Warped or swollen door frames
- Mold in corners or trim
Pro tip: Run your hand around the inside edges of doors and windows to feel for moisture. If you catch it early, you can avoid major repairs.
A+ Restoration can help you identify leaks and begin water damage cleanup before it spreads.
4. Basement and Crawl Spaces: Where Water Hides
If your home sits on a slope or in a low-lying area, heavy rain can easily push water into your basement or crawl space. And once it’s there, it’s hard to get out without professional help.
Signs of water damage:
- Wet carpet or flooring
- Pooling water near foundation walls
- Musty or earthy smells
- Efflorescence (white, chalky residue on basement walls)
PAA: How do I stop water from coming into my basement after a storm?
Use sump pumps, waterproof your foundation, and ensure your gutters direct water away from the house. Regular inspection is key.
If your basement floods after every storm, it’s time to call A+ Restoration. We offer full-service basement water extraction and mold prevention.
5. Floors and Carpets: The Silent Absorbers
Your flooring can soak up a surprising amount of water without showing visible damage right away. Wood and laminate floors are especially vulnerable and can warp or buckle if water is left untreated.
What to inspect:
- Buckling or uneven flooring
- Discoloration on hardwood
- Damp carpets or rugs
- Musty odors or soft spots
PAA: Can wet carpet be saved after flooding?
Sometimes — if it’s dried within 24–48 hours. After that, mold can start to form and replacing it may be the only option.
A+ Restoration offers 24/7 flood and floor drying services to help save your home from long-term damage.
6. Gutters, Downspouts, and Foundation: External Clues
Water damage doesn’t always start inside. Poor drainage around your home’s exterior can lead to serious foundation damage.
Walk around your home and check:
- Gutters overflowing or clogged with debris
- Downspouts not directing water away
- Pooling water around the foundation
- New cracks in exterior walls
PAA: Can clogged gutters cause water damage inside your house?
Absolutely. When water can’t drain properly, it can back up into your roof or seep into your foundation.
Need help after heavy rain or hail? A+ Restoration handles hail damage cleanup as well as preventative inspections.
7. HVAC Units and Ductwork: Often Overlooked
Stormwater can seep into crawl spaces and ducts or even damage your HVAC system if outdoor units are exposed. Wet air ducts can spread mold spores throughout your entire home.
Check for:
- Unusual smells when the HVAC is running
- Standing water near your unit
- Rust, corrosion, or moisture buildup
- Reduced airflow or loud noises
PAA: Can stormwater damage my HVAC system?
Yes. Flooded or wet units can short out, grow mold, or push contaminated air through your home.
A+ Restoration provides mold inspections and cleanup for ductwork and HVAC systems post-storm.
Call A+ Restoration After the Storm Hits
Storms are unpredictable — but your cleanup process doesn’t have to be. At A+ Restoration, we specialize in fast, reliable water and storm damage restoration for homeowners in Covington, KY and surrounding areas.
Whether you’re dealing with a flooded basement, roof leak, or hidden water damage, our team is here 24/7 to help. We’ll assess the damage, dry your home, and work directly with your insurance company so you don’t have to stress.
Call us at 859-568-5284
Visit aplusrestoration.org
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Protect your home, protect your family — let A+ Restoration help you recover after the storm.