Storm damage is storming across the United States. In 2020 alone, Americans experienced 22 disasters that caused more than one billion dollars in damage.
Most storm damage is repairable. But as storms become more severe, the damage is harder to fix.
What do you need to do to keep your roof intact? What should be your first steps when you find your doors are damaged? How can you protect your home after a storm surge washes in?
Answer these questions and you can minimize the damage that a devastating storm causes. Here is your quick guide.
Roofing
Roof damage is common after many severe weather events. After a tornado or a hurricane, every home in a residential area may need roof repair.
Missing shingles are something you can fix yourself. Go up on your roof while tethered in and hammer the shingles into place.
If the integrity of your roof may be compromised, you should get a roofing contractor to come in and make repairs. Tell them what you think the problem is so they can make preparations. If someone falls from your roof, you are responsible for their injuries.
Doors and Windows
Door and window damage is also very common. High winds can rip shutters off their hinges, or objects can get thrown into doors.
Try to secure all entrances and exits to your home with plywood and heavy objects. An animal can get into your home through a broken door. If you have water leaking in, you may get fish, insects, or snakes in your house.
Plumbing
A hurricane or a flood can greatly affect a city’s water supply. Massive storm surges can wash toxins into the water and rip pipes out of the ground and walls.
As soon as it is safe for you to enter your home, you should go inside and check on your water lines. If you notice you have leaks, you need to shut off your water source and call a plumber. The more your pipes leak, the more your home will get flooded.
Interior Spaces
Water can pool in rooms or seep into the walls. Once it is inside of a house, it can allow mold and mildew to spread. It can also rot away at the foundation, making the home unstable.
You need to remove all water from your house, then you must inspect your foundation. Do not hesitate if you see cracks along the base of your house. Get a contractor in and get repairs done as soon as possible.
How to Confront Storm Damage
You can restore your home after storm damage. Many homes suffer from damaged roofs, namely through missing shingles. You can make minor fixes yourself, but you should go to a professional for help.
Put up solid materials over damaged windows as a temporary fix. But focus your efforts on repairing your plumbing and foundation.
Water seems harmless, but it is a feeding ground for mold and toxins. Avoid standing pools of water and have them drained right away.
Repairing your home is one way you can deal with a storm. Find out more by following our coverage.
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