24/7 Emergency ServiceProtecting the Outside of Your Home From Storms | SERVPRO of Tri-County
5/1/2024 (Permalink)
Have you been impacted by the unusual summer storm season? SERVPRO of Tri-County has your back when you experience flood and water damage.
There are so many ways the outside of your home could be damaged. Wind, hail, rain, tornadoes…the list of weather threats could go on and on. The extremes your home will face will vary throughout the year, but when you are unprepared, the outcome can be a total disaster.
Your list of responsibilities and to-dos at home is likely already very long. With everyday maintenance to tackle, adding on storm prep might not sound ideal. The good news is there are some pretty simple steps you can take seasonally that will go a long way in protecting your home.
Georgia weather can be a mixed bag, and if you have lived here a while you have probably heard the saying “if you don’t like the weather, wait 10 minutes.” Winters are typically mild, but they can bring snow and ice as well as plenty of rain and even a few severe storms. Spring and summer tend to be very active, with strong thunderstorms, occasional tornadoes and lots of rain. And with Toccoa Falls so close to most of our communities, flooding can’t be ruled out.
In order to prepare your home, the best place to start is outside. Add a few extra steps to your regular yard work days to keep your home and loved ones as safe as possible.
Taking care of your home to prevent damage during a storm is not hard. It can actually become part of your regular routine, and the kids can even help out!
Regardless of your location, strong winds and plenty of rain will always be something you need to be prepared for. Trim the trees on your property, and keep your gutter cleared out regularly.
Pick up loose limbs and tie down anything that stays outside permanently, like your patio furniture. Taking these steps often can go a long way toward preventing broken windows from flying debris and water leaks from heavy rains.
Walk your property at least once a month and be intentional about looking for signs of deterioration. Take note of any gaps in your siding or loose shingles on your roof. Your roof is an area of your home you should become very familiar with to keep it in good shape. Check it after wind storms and give it a thorough inspection at least every four months. Replace missing shingles or broken gutters, and check for openings around the chimney and the edges of your home.
You can do a whole lot of good in preparing your home with some fairly simple, no cost steps, but there are a few upgrades you should consider for better long-term outcomes.
Adding storm shutters or even upgrading your windows to heavier materials can be a great way to protect your home when the wind picks up. Storm shutters can be closed quickly ahead of the threat, while thick glass can keep you safe from blowing objects. Gutter guards that prevent leaf buildup are another great addition to homes in our area. These are very helpful for ensuring rain has a clear path away from your roof and the rest of your home.
For disconnected buildings you have on your property, adding additional bracing can ensure things stay where they are supposed to during a windstorm. Additional tie-downs to mobile homes can also provide a lot of reassurance.
Make sure you have two ways to get weather alerts when they are issued, and teach everyone in your home where the safest place to go is during a storm. If your home is damaged, call us right away. We will start recovery fast so you can get back to living.
Was your home damaged in a storm? Call us at SERVPRO of Tri-County to start restoration, 24⁄7.