Being prepared for any situationis the best way to keep you and your loved ones safe. Whether you’re getting ready for a simple weekend camping trip or learning pointers on what to do in case of a fire, earthquake or other natural disaster, knowledge is tantamount to power.
In fact, “knowing” – according to G.I. Joe – “is half the battle.” Even in everyday situations, knowledge that allows you to plan ahead or to properly react to an occurrence puts you at an advantage. Take dealing with storm damage:knowing what damage to expect or what to look for once the storm has blown over is an important first step toward minimizing furtherdamage to your home. Read on to learn about the common types of damage your home may face in the event of a storm.
Window Damage
If your home has been hit by a storm, you’re likely to find cracked windows along with damaged window casings. Windows are especially susceptible to the high winds brought in by storms, as well as the debris they may carry. Install storm shutters to keep them protected against the dangers harsh weather can bring.
Moisture Damage
This type of damage often goeshand-in-hand with heavy rains and rising water, and can lead to wood rotandmold developing in the insulation. Homes with basements are particularly prone to flooding when the surrounding soil becomes too saturated with water. Always make sure to keep your gutters clear and in good working order to make sure water ends up where you want it, and extend downspouts several feet from the foundation to move water even further away from your home.
Exterior Damage
Natural forces such as hail, wind and rain cause enough damage to the exterior of your home. Sometimes flying debris and other projectiles, such as broken branches or outdoor furniture,may damage it even further. Siding, for example, can be ripped off your home, especially if made of lighter materials or if it has missing or loose parts. Regular maintenance and proper installation is needed to prevent major damage from occurring.
Roof Damage
A common major repair that must be made after a hurricane is reroofing. This is because the roof is most susceptible to damage, as not only is it hit first, but also hit the hardest. During a hurricane, the roof will be subjected to the constant force of the wind, resulting in lost shingles or damaged roofing material. In a worst-case scenario, you could be faced with the whole roof being lifted off. Roofs with a lower slope, as roofing repair contractors will tell you, are more susceptible to this type of damage – although steeper roofing systems are likely to suffer damage at the ridge or gable ends.
Don’t hesitate to consult trusted local experts in the face of storm damage to your home. Not only will they be willing to improve your home so it’s a better-prepared structure, they are also valuable sources of information on how to avoid damage even before the storm hits.
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Author Bio:
Bill Krech is an expert in the home improvement industry, focusing on home exteriors – from doors to siding to roofs. He loves sharing tips with homeowners. Check out his blog, follow him on Twitter or check for updates on Facebook.
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