El Reno tornado repairs, board-up and storm cleanup
The widest tornado NWS Norman knows of formed near El Reno around 6:03 p.m. on May 31, 2013. When storms that strong come through, the first job is securing the house, and the rebuild follows.
- Answered 24/7
- Canadian County
- Dry-out to rebuild
Tornado repairs and emergency board-up in El Reno run through our 24/7 line and crews from our north Oklahoma City office. During the May 24, 2011 EF5 tornado, the Oklahoma Mesonet site near El Reno recorded a 151 mph gust, the highest the network has measured.
The Canadian County seat and two record storms
The Encyclopedia of Oklahoma History describes El Reno as the Canadian County seat, lying due west of Oklahoma City and bounded on the north by the North Canadian River. The Census Bureau estimated 20,730 residents in mid-2025, up from 16,989 in 2020, with about 60.2% of occupied homes owner occupied.
El Reno holds two weather records. During the May 24, 2011 EF5 tornado, the Oklahoma Mesonet site near El Reno recorded a 151 mph gust, the highest the network has measured. On May 31, 2013, the most significant tornado of that day formed near El Reno and was rated EF3; NWS Norman describes it as the widest known tornado on record.
Wind at those speeds strips roofs, breaks windows and drives debris through walls. After a storm like that, the first priority is getting the house closed against rain and secured against entry. Then comes the rebuild, which starts with structure and works out to finishes.
Storm damage we repair in El Reno
Tornado damage to structure
Tornado winds lift roofs, rack walls and drive debris into the house. We brace what is unstable, remove debris and rebuild framing, roof and walls in order, keeping a photo record for each stage of the repair. The house is dried in before any interior finish work starts.
Broken windows and doors
Flying debris and pressure changes break windows and doors, leaving the house open to rain and entry. We board up openings with plywood fastened to the frame, then measure and replace the glass, sashes and doors. Board-up also stops the rain that would otherwise ruin floors and walls overnight.
Shingles and decking lost to wind
High wind tears shingles off and can lift decking at the edges and ridge. We tarp exposed areas, replace damaged decking and reinstall shingles, checking the attic and ceilings for water that got in. Wet insulation is pulled so it does not hold water against the ceiling.
Storm repairs El Reno homeowners need most
El Reno calls reach a person at any hour, and crews head west from our Memorial Road office in north Oklahoma City. After a tornado we ask whether the house is safe to enter, whether utilities are off and what openings need covering. Board-up and tarping come first, then a full scope for the rebuild once the house is secure.
El Reno tornado and board-up questions
Make sure everyone is safe and out of damaged rooms. Shut off gas and power if you can do it safely, and stay clear of downed lines. Photograph the damage, then call us to board up and tarp so rain and intruders stay out.
Plastic keeps some rain out but does nothing for security and tears in wind. A board-up uses plywood fastened to the window or door frame, which keeps out weather and people until the permanent glass or door is installed.
Yes. We remove debris from the roof and the house, including limbs and trees that fell on the structure, as part of securing and repairing it. Large yard cleanup may need a separate hauling crew, which we can help you arrange.
It depends on the damage. A roof and window repair can take a few weeks once materials arrive. Structural rebuilds take longer, with permits and inspections. We give you a schedule once the house is secure and we can see the full scope.
Other places we work near El Reno
Damage at your place in El Reno?
Call any hour. We tell you what to do in the next ten minutes and get a crew moving.