The short answer
First Steps After Storm Damage
Your first move is to ensure everyone is safe. If water is coming in through windows, doors, or a roof breach, move people away from the area. Turn off power to affected zones if you can do so without risk. See a doctor if you feel unwell from any exposure.
Next, document the damage with photos and notes. This helps with your insurance claim. Then, stop the water source if possible. For a high-rise, that might mean closing storm shutters, moving items from balconies, or contacting building maintenance to secure shared areas.
Dry Out Soaked Areas Quickly
Moisture spreads fast in a high-rise because water can travel down through floors and walls. Remove wet carpets, rugs, and furniture right away. Use towels and mops to soak up standing water. Open windows if the outside air is drier than the inside air.
Set up fans and dehumidifiers to speed up drying. In a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and spring hail and thunderstorms, like in Frisco, high humidity can slow drying. If you live in Frisco, keep your windows closed during humid spells and rely on dehumidifiers.
- Move wet items to a dry area
- Use a wet-dry vacuum for puddles
- Place fans to circulate air
- Run dehumidifiers continuously
- Check walls and floors for moisture
Prevent Mold and Structural Issues
Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours on wet surfaces. In a high-rise, hidden moisture in walls and ceilings can lead to mold behind drywall. Dry out all affected areas thoroughly before repairs. If you see mold, consult a mold professional.
Structural damage, like cracked beams or compromised drywall, needs professional evaluation. Do not attempt major repairs yourself. A water damage inspection can identify hidden moisture and structural concerns. Ask the pros to check for damage in load-bearing elements.
Work with Restoration Pros
For a high-rise, cleanup often requires specialized equipment and safety training. Local water damage pros can handle large-scale drying, remove water from multiple floors, and manage debris disposal. They can also work with your building's safety protocols.
Before hiring, ask about their approach to high-rise scenarios. Confirm they have experience with multi-story buildings and that they follow safety codes. You may also need to coordinate with your building manager to schedule access to shared areas.
- Ask about high-rise experience
- Check that they use industrial dehumidifiers
- Confirm they handle debris removal
- Request a written plan for drying and repairs
- Ensure they follow building safety rules
Water damage does not wait
Phones are answered 24/7 for Frisco and nearby communities.
Call Now (469) 535-6935Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to dry out a high-rise after a storm?
Drying time varies based on the amount of water, materials affected, and humidity levels. In a high-rise, water can seep into multiple floors, so full drying may take several days to a week. Using dehumidifiers and fans speeds up the process.
Can I clean storm damage in a high-rise myself?
You can handle small areas with towels and fans, but large-scale water intrusion in a high-rise is risky. Hidden moisture, electrical hazards, and structural concerns require professional equipment. The pros can also access hard-to-reach spaces like elevator shafts and stairwells.
What should I do if my ceiling is leaking?
Place a bucket under the leak and move furniture away. Turn off lights in that area if you can do so safely. Document the leak with photos. Contact your building manager immediately, as the leak may originate from a shared space. Then, have a pro inspect for hidden damage.
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