Storms, roof leaks and ice dams
Storm & Roof Leak Damage in Columbus, OH
Water dripping through a ceiling, stains spreading after a storm or ice backing up under the shingles? Call and you are connected with an independent restoration contractor in Columbus.
Water from above spreads
Water that comes through a roof soaks the insulation in the attic first, then the ceiling drywall, then runs down inside walls. By the time a stain shows, the attic insulation may be saturated. Wet blown-in insulation usually has to be removed, and a ceiling that sags with water should be opened in a controlled way rather than left to fall.
In winter, ice dams cause the same kind of damage: snow melts on a warm roof, refreezes at the cold eaves and backs water up under the shingles. The restoration contractor dries the inside; a roofer deals with the roof.
What to do
Contain the drip
Buckets and towels under the leak; move furniture and electronics away.
A bulging ceiling
Don't stand under it. A contractor can relieve the water safely.
Cover the roof
If the roof is open, a roofer or the restoration contractor can tarp it to stop more water getting in.
Check the attic
From the attic hatch, look for wet insulation and dripping decking if it is safe to do so.
Lights and fixtures
Water near a ceiling light means turning that circuit off at the breaker.
Write down the storm
Note the date of the storm or the cold snap. It matters for any later discussion with your insurer.
In Columbus
Columbus permits and insurance steps after a storm
Replacing a roof in Columbus needs a permit (without plan review), and replacing more than 32 square feet of drywall needs a permit and plan review (Building and Zoning Services). Your roofer and restoration contractor should know which applies.
The Ohio Department of Insurance tells homeowners to make the temporary repairs needed to prevent more damage and keep the receipts, and not to sign a contract before an adjuster has seen the damage if they plan to claim (homeowners insurance guide, severe weather toolkit).
How it works
From the call to a dry house
You call
Tell the person who answers what happened, where the water or smoke came from and your ZIP code.
You're connected
The call goes to an independent restoration contractor that serves your part of Columbus.
They assess
The contractor inspects, measures moisture, explains what needs removing and gives you their price.
You decide
Hire them or not. There is no obligation, and the agreement is between you and the contractor.
Questions
Storm & Roof Leak Damage: common questions
Who fixes the roof?
A roofing contractor. Restoration contractors dry and repair the inside of the house; some arrange a tarp or work with roofers. Ask when you call.
Does wet insulation dry out?
Fiberglass batts can sometimes dry if they were only damp. Blown-in cellulose that got soaked usually packs down and is removed and replaced.
How do I prevent ice dams?
Usually through better attic insulation and ventilation so the roof stays cold, and by keeping gutters clear. A roofer or insulation contractor can look at your attic.
Other services
Other kinds of damage
- Water Damage RestorationLeaks, overflows and failed appliances: water out, structure dried, damaged materials replaced.
- Flooded Basement CleanupStorm water, a failed sump pump or seepage: water pumped out, contents moved, the basement dried.
- Frozen & Burst PipesA pipe split in the cold or a supply line let go: water off, extracted and the walls and floors dried.
- Sewage Backup CleanupSewage through a floor drain or toilet: contaminated materials removed, the area cleaned, sanitized and dried.
- Water Extraction & DryingPumps and extractors take up standing water; air movers and dehumidifiers dry the structure, checked daily.
- Fire & Smoke DamageSoot, smoke odor and the water used to put the fire out: cleaned, deodorized, dried and rebuilt.
- Mold RemediationMold after a leak or flood: the moisture source fixed, the area contained, moldy materials removed.
Water, smoke or mold?
Talk to a Columbus restoration contractor
One call connects you with an independent restoration contractor serving Columbus and nearby suburbs. Tell them what happened, where the water came from and how long it has been wet.
Water in the house? Talk to a restoration contractor now.
You are connected with an independent water damage restoration contractor that serves your part of central Ohio.
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