Signs Your Punta Gorda Home Has Hidden Hurricane Damage

What Punta Gorda Homeowners Should Look For—Before It’s Too Late

Living in Punta Gorda, Florida, means enjoying beautiful weather, waterfront views, and a laid-back coastal lifestyle. But it also means facing the yearly risk of hurricanes and tropical storms. While some storm damage is obvious—like missing shingles or broken windows—hidden hurricane damage can quietly compromise your home’s structure, safety, and value if left unaddressed.

At Maloney Homes, we’ve seen firsthand how undetected storm damage can worsen over time. In this post, we’ll walk you through the subtle signs that your home may have suffered hidden damage after a hurricane—and what to do about it.

1. Mysterious Water Stains or Damp Spots

Water intrusion is one of the most common aftereffects of a storm. But leaks aren’t always obvious. Look for:

• Yellow or brown water stains on ceilings or walls

• Warped baseboards or peeling paint

• Musty odors in certain rooms

These are signs water may have seeped in during the storm and is now trapped behind walls or under floors.

2. Cracks in Walls or Foundation

Small cracks can appear as your home settles, but new or expanding cracks after a hurricane may indicate structural stress from high winds or flying debris. Pay special attention to:

• Diagonal cracks above doors or windows

• Foundation fissures

• Cracked tile or uneven floors

If ignored, structural damage can worsen over time and become more expensive to fix.

3. Doors and Windows That Stick

Have you noticed a door that used to close easily now sticks or doesn’t align with the frame? That could be a sign that your home’s frame has shifted, which is often caused by wind pressure or subtle foundation movement during a storm.

4. Roof or Attic Red Flags

Even if your roof looks intact from the ground, wind and water can cause hidden issues like:

• Displaced or lifted shingles

• Wet insulation or mold in the attic

• Small leaks during heavy rain

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense—don’t wait for a major leak before scheduling an inspection.

5. Unexplained Mold or Mildew Growth

Hurricanes bring rain, humidity, and power outages—conditions that can cause mold growth in walls, crawlspaces, or HVAC systems. You might notice:

• A damp, musty smell

• Discoloration behind furniture or under sinks

• Increased allergy symptoms

If mold is spreading, it’s a clear sign of water intrusion—and a health risk that should be addressed immediately.

6. Loose or Rusted Exterior Fixtures

Your gutters, soffits, and siding may have taken a beating. Inspect for:

• Sagging or detached gutters

• Rust on metal fixtures

• Dented or discolored siding

These issues can lead to long-term water damage or pest infestations if left unchecked.

7. Higher Energy Bills

If your insulation or HVAC system was compromised by water, your home might be working harder to stay cool. A sudden spike in your electric bill could signal hidden moisture or damage to your home’s envelope.

Don’t Wait—Schedule a Storm Damage Assessment

Many Punta Gorda homeowners assume that if they don’t see major issues after a storm, they’re in the clear. Unfortunately, hidden hurricane damage can take weeks or months to show up—and the longer you wait, the more costly the repairs become.

That’s why Maloney Homes offers professional post-storm inspections and full-service renovations for storm-impacted homes. Whether it’s a subtle roof leak or foundation shift, we’ll uncover the damage and help you restore your home safely and beautifully.

Need Help Assessing Storm Damage in Punta Gorda?

Contact Maloney Homes today for a free consultation.

• Based in Punta Gorda | Serving Charlotte County & Southwest Florida

• Kitchen Remodeling | Bathroom Remodeling | Whole-Home Remodeling | Hurricane Repairs