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What to Fix First After a Memphis Storm: A Calm, Practical Order
Local Handyman Mid-South
January 17, 2025
At Local Handyman Mid-South, we help Memphis homeowners sort storm damage by priority—because fixing the wrong thing first often lets the real damage spread.
Why Storm Damage Feels Confusing in Memphis
Memphis storms rarely cause one clean failure. Instead, wind, pressure changes, and heavy rain hit at the same time while loess soil underneath the home becomes saturated. The result is a mix of visible damage and hidden movement that doesn’t fully show up until days later. That’s why homes often feel “off” after a storm even when nothing looks destroyed.
The Biggest Mistake Homeowners Make
The most common mistake is fixing cosmetic damage first. Replacing a loose board or patching drywall before controlling water paths or alignment issues often leads to repeat repairs. In Memphis, moisture and soil movement decide what gets worse—not what looks worst.
The Right Order After a Storm
At Local Handyman Mid-South, we look at post-storm homes in terms of spread risk: what problems will grow if left alone.
Post-Storm Fix Priority (Memphis Homes)
| Priority | What to Address | Why It Comes First |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Active water paths | Prevents hidden moisture damage |
| 2 | Doors & openings | Stops pressure-driven leaks |
| 3 | Fence & exterior movement | Prevents progressive leaning |
| 4 | Gutters & downspouts | Controls runoff near foundation |
| 5 | Trim & siding gaps | Blocks moisture intrusion |
| 6 | Interior cosmetic damage | Last, once movement settles |
Why Waiting a Few Days Can Be Smart
In Memphis, saturated loess soil continues to move as it dries. Fixing alignment-sensitive items too quickly can mean redoing them once the ground settles. That’s why we often recommend addressing water control immediately, then reassessing alignment once conditions stabilize.
What Storms Commonly Trigger (But Don’t Announce)
Doors drifting out of square
Fence posts losing holding strength
Gutters pulling loose under debris weight
Hairline cracks appearing days later
Moisture lingering in shaded areas
What to Fix First After a Memphis Storm — FAQs
Should I fix visible damage immediately after a storm?
Only if it involves active water intrusion or safety. Cosmetic fixes can wait until movement settles.
Why do door problems show up after storms?
Saturated soil allows subtle frame movement that affects tight tolerances like doors.
Are fences urgent after storms?
Yes if posts have shifted. Early correction prevents progressive leaning.
Should I wait before repairing drywall cracks?
Usually yes. Cracks often widen or stabilize after soil finishes drying.
Do gutters really matter after storms?
Absolutely. Poor drainage feeds moisture back into soil and foundations.
How does Local Handyman Mid-South approach post-storm repairs?
We prioritize stopping damage spread first, then correcting alignment once the home stabilizes.
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