Experiencing a storm can be overwhelming, and sometimes the damage it leaves behind isn’t immediately visible. If you live in Colorado Springs, it’s especially important to know what signs to look for after a storm. Identifying these issues early can save you from further damage and help you take the right steps to protect your property.

Once the skies have cleared and it’s safe to go outside, checking your home thoroughly can make all the difference. Whether you’re dealing with high winds, rain, or hail, there are common signs of storm damage anyone can look out for. Here’s a look at what to inspect once a storm has passed.

Check for Roof Damage

The roof is one of the most exposed parts of your home during a storm. Strong winds and falling debris can cause serious problems if left unaddressed. Start by looking for missing or broken shingles. These gaps can allow water to seep in, which could create leaks in your attic or ceiling.

Water stains on the ceiling or inside the attic often hint at roof damage that may not be visible from the ground. If your roof is tiled, inspect it for broken or cracked sections as well. Keeping an eye out for changes like these helps catch problems before they lead to costly repairs.

Signs to look for include:

1. Missing or damaged shingles
2. Cracked or broken tiles
3. Damp spots or water stains on interior ceilings
4. Leaks in the attic

If anything looks suspicious, it’s smart to bring in a trained professional to assess the situation. Getting a full picture early helps prevent more serious damage.

Inspect the Exterior Walls and Siding

Next, take a walk around your home to check the walls and siding. Storms can send heavy debris crashing into your property, which may leave dents, cracks, or even knock panels loose. These types of damage can let rainwater in, leading to bigger issues down the road.

Check carefully for noticeable chips or fractures in your home’s siding. A close look might reveal areas that bulged or shifted from high wind. Even if your siding looks mostly fine, be cautious—what appears minor now can grow if ignored.

What to check:

1. Cracks or chips in the siding
2. Loose, misaligned, or missing panels
3. Water marks or discoloration

If something doesn’t look right, it’s better to act sooner rather than later. Trust the experts to assess long-term repair needs and offer a plan to keep your walls sealed and safe.

Examine Windows and Doors

Windows and doors act as key points of protection during storms. After everything settles, inspect these areas for damage that can sometimes go unnoticed. Check each pane for cracks or chip marks, even the small ones. Over time, these can spread and lead to bigger problems with energy loss or water damage.

Don’t forget to test the frames and seals. If the frame is loose or the seal is broken, wind and moisture can get through. That puts extra strain on your HVAC system and could even cause mold to grow inside wall cavities.

Be on the lookout for:

1. Broken or cracked glass
2. Gaps or damage in frames
3. Worn or peeling seals

Think of your home as a tightly sealed container. If the seals break, outside elements start making their way in. A quick check after a storm helps keep things secure and functional.

Look for Water Damage in and Around the Home

One of the more hidden threats after a storm is water damage. Heavy rain can soak into areas you don’t normally see, like basements and crawlspaces. Later, these spots may become breeding grounds for mold and mildew.

Moist, dark spaces are perfect for mold, which can eat away at wood structures and impact indoor air quality. Check walls and floors for unusual stains or soft spots. Use your nose, too—musty smells often point to lingering moisture behind walls or under flooring.

Things to watch for:

1. Damp spots on the floor or lower walls
2. Patches of discoloration
3. Musty or moldy smells
4. Warped surfaces

If caught early, water damage can be corrected before it grows worse. Don’t wait until the problem spreads before getting help.

Check Outdoor Structures and Landscaping

The yard and outdoor features aren’t immune to storm impacts. Once you’ve inspected the house, take time to walk your property and check for damage to fences, sheds, playsets, or landscaping.

Strong gusts can knock over fences or loosen boards. Sheds or storage units may shift or suffer broken locks, allowing water and pests to get inside. Don’t overlook fallen trees or large branches either, which can pose safety hazards or cause structural damage if ignored.

Review these areas:

1. Fences leaning or missing sections
2. Outdoor furniture moved or broken
3. Damage to sheds, playsets, or detached structures
4. Fallen branches or trees

Removing debris and fixing outside damage supports your home’s overall safety. During strong storms, even the smallest things can turn into projectiles or hazards.

Getting Help and Staying Prepared

After your inspection, keep a checklist of all the issues you find. Even small concerns are worth noting. Acting quickly can save money in the long run and give you peace of mind.

Don’t try to handle everything yourself. A professional team like ours at Disaster Adjusting can guide you through the next steps. Whether it’s making sure your insurance claim is handled properly or helping you plan repairs, we’re ready to step in when it matters most.

Stay safe during your inspection by wearing sturdy shoes and avoiding compromised areas, especially around flooded basements or broken structures. Safety always comes first.

Steps Now to Avoid Problems Later

Storms may be unpredictable, but your preparation doesn’t have to be. Knowing what to look for after a storm helps protect what matters most. By walking through these areas and noting any visible or suspected damage, you put yourself in a stronger position for recovery.

Your house is more than just a structure—it’s your home. Taking the time to inspect, catch early signs of damage, and get help when needed keeps it that way. Whether it’s your roof, siding, windows, or backyard, protection starts with attention. Your actions now could mean fewer headaches when the next storm rolls through.

Ensure you’re ready for whatever storm comes next by getting reliable support when you need it. At Disaster Adjusting, we specialize in helping homeowners throughout Colorado Springs recover quickly and confidently. Learn more about how we handle storm damage claims and get the guidance you need to secure a proper settlement. Let us help keep your home safe and secure, so you can focus on what matters most.

Questions? Call us today for a consultation!

📞 (888) 675-0911