Attic Leaks After a Storm? Here’s What You’re Likely Dealing With

When a big storm rolls through Grove City or anywhere in Central Ohio, one of the first calls we get is about water leaking from the attic. If that’s you, here’s what’s likely going on—and what you can do about it.

Common Causes of Attic Leaks After Storms

From years of water damage jobs, here are the usual suspects we see:

• Damaged or missing shingles: High winds and hail can lift or break shingles, especially older or improperly nailed ones.

• Failed flashing: This thin metal around roof edges, chimneys, and vents is crucial. If it’s rusted, bent, or loose, water will find a way in.

• Clogged or crushed vents: Ridge vents and other exhausts get blocked or damaged, which traps moisture and heat—setting up leaks.

• Improper attic ventilation: When hot, moist air gets trapped in the attic during a storm, it can cause condensation that mimics a leak.

• Saturated insulation: Once insulation gets wet, it holds that moisture against the roof deck and rafters, turning a small leak into big trouble.

We’ve also seen hail blasts that puncture vent boots and break shingle seals clean off—something we confirmed again recently using IICRC S500 and Haag Engineering hail inspection guidelines.

What Damage You’re Really Looking At

Here’s what might be happening above your ceiling:

• Wet drywall and insulation

• Mold starting to form within 24–48 hours

• Damaged roof decking (especially OSB)

• Rusted nails or fasteners causing roof component failure

Don’t just look for water stains. Use a flashlight to check the attic right after a storm. If it smells musty or the insulation feels damp, it’s time to act.

What to Do Next (Before It Gets Worse)

• Contain the water: Buckets, tarps, and towels can buy you time.

• Don’t just patch the ceiling: That doesn’t fix the source—and you’ll be patching again soon.

• Call a licensed restoration contractor: You need someone who knows water damage and roofing—like us.

We’ll:

• Find and fix the leak source

• Remove wet insulation and dry the space with IICRC-approved methods

• Inspect for mold growth per S520 mold remediation standards

• Repair or replace damaged roof decking and shingles

If needed, we’ll also work with your insurance carrier to document storm damage and ensure your repairs are covered.

Why It Pays to Call Total Home Water Restoration

I’m Tyler Zimmerman, owner of Total Home Water Restoration. We’re based right here in Grove City, and when you call, you get experienced, honest help—not high-pressure sales. We’ve restored storm-damaged homes in Grove City, Columbus, Hilliard, and Westerville for years, and we know what storm damage really looks like in Ohio.

If it were my house, I’d want it fixed right—not fast and cheap. That’s what we bring to your home.

Need attic leak repair after a storm?

Call Total Home Water Restoration at 380-246-1837
4141 Hoover Rd, Grove City, OH 43123