What Does Storm Damage Restoration Actually Involve?

Storm damage restoration is the full process of getting a home back to pre-storm condition: emergency tarping or board-up, a documented inspection of the roof, siding, gutters, and windows, an itemized scope for your insurer, and then the coordinated repairs. One company managing all of it is faster and cleaner than hiring four separate contractors.

What storms hit the north metro

The Twin Cities sees three damaging weather types: hail and straight-line wind from May through August, when 80s°F afternoons fuel severe thunderstorms; heavy wet snow and ice from December through March; and the occasional fall windstorm as temperatures swing through the 30s°F and 40s°F. Each leaves a different signature on a house.

Step 1: Emergency protection

If the roof is open or a window is broken, the first job is a tarp or board-up to stop water and wind from getting inside. Keep receipts — this mitigation is usually covered by your policy.

Step 2: A full exterior inspection, not just the roof

Wind and hail rarely stop at the roof. A proper inspection covers shingles and flashing, siding and trim, gutters and downspouts, window screens and frames, fascia and soffit, and the AC condenser. Damage gets photographed and logged by elevation.

Step 3: Documentation for your claim

You get a written report with photos and an itemized estimate that lines up with insurance-adjuster software. That's what turns a walk-around into an approvable claim. See insurance claims assistance.

Step 4: Adjuster meeting and approved scope

Your contractor meets the adjuster on site so both are measuring the same damage. Anything missed — code upgrades, ice-and-water shield, detached garage — is added by supplement with proof.

Step 5: The repairs, in the right order

Roof first to make the house watertight, then siding, gutters, windows, and paint. Scheduling it as one project avoids crews working around each other and finishing months apart.

Why one contractor for the whole envelope

A single point of contact means one scope, one schedule, one warranty, and no finger-pointing if something needs a second look. We handle roofing, siding, gutters, and windows under one roof.

Frequently asked questions

How fast can you tarp a roof? Same day or next day in most cases across the north metro.

Do you handle siding and gutters too, or just the roof? The whole exterior.

Who pays for the emergency tarp? Usually your insurer, as covered mitigation. Save receipts and photos.

How long does a full restoration take? From a few days to a few weeks, depending on scope and material lead times.

Get a free storm damage inspection

Total Home Exteriors has restored north metro homes after storms since 2000. Call 612-388-7795 or request a free inspection.