The effects of a storm on a home can be devastating. Storms with high winds, heavy rain, and hail can cause millions of dollars in damage across the country each year.
Storms can cause structural damage to roofs, siding, windows, doors, and porches. High winds can tear off shingles and blow debris into windows or walls. Tornadoes and hurricanes can rip entire houses apart with their powerful wind gusts. Heavy rains can seep through unprotected walls and foundations, leading to dangerous mold growth or water damage inside the home. Hailstones can dent metal or break through window glass, while lightning strikes can fire houses if they strike nearby trees or power lines.
In addition to physical damage from a storm, homeowners may suffer financial losses due to repair costs or disruption of daily routines due to displaced family members. Depending on the storm’s severity and the type of homeowner’s insurance coverage available, some people can recoup some of their losses. Still, for many people, this is not an option. Prevention of storm damage is critical, so homeowners should take preparatory steps. Here are a few of them.
Roof Maintainance
The roof is the most significant protective feature a home has to offer. It is built to withstand severe weather conditions but will eventually require maintenance. Still, even the most sturdy and reliable roof has its limits. To protect it from storm damage, homeowners should inspect the roof regularly for signs of damage or wear and tear. If any repairs are needed, please make sure to have them done as soon as possible.
Unfortunately, homeowners might not know what they are doing regarding roof maintenance, which can lead to severe damage. Moreover, the dangers associated with roofing might put the lives of the homeowner and loved ones in danger. Professional roofers should be consulted for any major repairs or replacements.
Gutter Maintenance
Gutters are an essential part of a home’s drainage system. They help protect homes from damage caused by heavy rains or melting snow. But if the gutters become clogged or damaged, water will not be able to drain properly and can cause extensive damage. Flooding is often a common scenario during a storm. If stormwater manages to get inside the house, then flooding is imminent as well.
To prevent this from happening, homeowners should inspect and clean their gutters at least twice a year and more often if necessary. This will help ensure the channels are free of debris and working correctly during heavy rainstorms or snowfall. Gutter repair services will be vital for homeowners unable to make necessary repairs themselves.
Garden Preparation
Growing a healthy garden is a long-term commitment, with people dedicating time and resources to maintain the lawn, shrubbery, and other plant life. It would be a shame if a storm ruins it in one day, causing extensive damage beyond recovery. As a result, homeowners must prepare their gardens for a thunderstorm through a few simple steps:
Pruning
Pruning shrubs and trees can limit the damage caused by high winds, as their branches cannot whip around and break nearby objects.
Securing Objects
Secure any outdoor furniture or decorations that might be thrown around in the storm. Tie down anything that needs to stay in place during a storm and move potted plants inside if possible.
Covering Plants
If plants cannot be moved inside, cover them with tarps or plastic sheets to protect them from the elements. The consequences of such protective measures are often less severe than if plants were left exposed.
Clearing Debris
If debris or garbage is lying around, clear it out of the yard before a storm. This will help reduce the risk of damage caused by flying objects.
Window Reinforcement
Window reinforcement is a crucial aspect of storm preparation and can be the difference between protecting your home and experiencing costly damage. When storms come with high winds, debris can become airborne and easily break through standard window glass. This can result in water entering the house and increased structural damage from flying objects.
To protect windows from storm damage, homeowners should consider reinforcing them with impact-resistant windows. These are designed to resist strong forces from outside elements such as hail, wind gusts, and debris. Impact-resistant windows are made of either laminated or tempered glass, which is much stronger than regular window glass and is more likely to withstand extreme weather conditions that could break it apart. These windows may also reduce energy costs due to their insulation properties.
In addition to installing impact-resistant windows, homeowners can take further steps to reinforce them against storm damage. It’s essential to inspect all window frames for rotting wood or other signs of decay every few years and repair any issues accordingly. Also, please make sure to caulk around all edges of the window frame periodically to create a snug fit against the wall or siding of your home. This will help prevent any gaps that may allow water leakage during storms.
Final Thoughts
Storms can cause extensive damage to homes, leading to costly repairs and even displacement of family members. They are a reality for many homeowners worldwide and should not be taken lightly. With these precautions, you can feel confident that your home is ready for whatever nature throws!
