Was Your House damaged in a Storm? Here are Some Tips to Keep Everyone Safe?
The preparation for storm season starts in spring. From year to year, the frequency and severity of bad weather differ, but it is inevitable. Most homeowners end up dealing with more property damages and others less.
The commonest types of property damages are siding and roof damages that follow heavy hail or winds. And while you will never be able to control the weather, you can protect your family and home from the effects of a storm. You might also be able to protect the property of your neighbor and home. Here are a few tips to help you achieve that.
– Replace the damaged or missing shingles
If shingles on your roof are already damaged, they are more likely to start breaking free. If they are missing, then you already have gaps on your roof for the wind to get under and do more damages. Keep in mind that when replacing or installing shingles you have to nail them properly – do not nail them over the nail-like. In regards to how the roofing materials will hold up to the storm, it does not matter. After the hailstorm, you replace all the missing or damaged shingles.
– Repair the loose siding
The rules that apply to the roof should also apply to the sidings. Ensure that the siding is not damaged. If damaged or missing, you should replace or do the necessary repairs.
– Keep the gutters clear
Ensure that the gutters are flowing freely and the downspouts are flowing away from the foundation. Water flooding or damages are among the quickest ways of devaluing a home. Therefore, the first line of defense should involve ensuring that the gutters are clear so that water can flow properly from your home. That leads to another crucial preventive measure – ensuring that the water is flowing away from your home.
– Ensure that water is flowing away from your home
Your lot’s grade should keep the water flowing from your home into the drain, ditches or other proper retention areas. That will prevent flooding and potential property damages.
– Ensure that the sump pump is in the right working condition
Wind will only require small openings to get beneath the sidings or shingles and rip them off. Moreover, small openings in your doors or windows could enlarge and allow more wind inside, which can compromise the roof of your home.
– Check for the loose fencing posts
Wind might surprise you. Anything that you have not nailed will be a huge liability in case of a storm. Do not forget about the fence posts during the preparation for storms. In other words, you should check the footing of the fencing. To do that, give every post a stronger shake to identify the loose ones. When looking for temporary fences, start by researching the available types.
– Trim your trees on a regular basis
Problematic tree limbs might damage your vehicle, home or the properties of your neighbors. Trim the trees regularly on the property to protect the windows and roofs.
Most people do not have the skills or the time to check or repair the damages on their property before a storm. If you already know that storms are on their way, take a few steps to minimize their effects. Identify the items in your home that might be projectile. That includes tools, lawn furniture, flower, and some other yard debris. Move the items to your shed, garage or indoors to prevent potential problems.
