Cary Storm Damage, Tarped, Pumped Out and Dried

Inland, But Not Out of Reach

Hurricane Fran made landfall near Cape Fear in September 1996 and kept hurricane-force gusts well inland. The National Weather Service recorded gusts of 79 mph and 8.8 inches of rain at the region's main airport, and nearly six inches fell at a gauge just a few miles from Cary. Tropical systems don't need to arrive at full strength to soak attics and walls.

Tall Trees, Short Distances

Neighborhoods such as MacGregor Downs and Kildaire Farms are known for mature, wooded lots. That's part of the appeal, and part of the risk, because a large oak or pine doesn't need much wind once the ground is saturated.

Right After the Storm

• Stay out of rooms with sagging ceilings; that bulge is water weight.
• Shut off power to wet areas from the panel if it's safe to reach.
• Photograph the outside damage before anyone moves debris.
• Note the time the leak started; your insurer will ask.

How We Handle It

We cover openings with tarps or temporary boarding to stop more water getting in. Next comes extraction, then we open ceilings that are holding water and remove wet insulation. Drying equipment runs until readings confirm the framing and subfloor are back to normal. Where repairs touch structure or systems, Cary generally requires a permit, and we coordinate that with the rebuild.

Storms aren't the only thing that floods a kitchen; see appliance leak cleanup for the indoor kind. For a complete overview, visit our Cary water damage crew.