15 Storm Damage Prevention Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

3/22/2018 (Permalink)

Cleaning your rain gutters regularly can help prevent leaks and water damage to the exterior an interior of your home.

Spring has finally come. Floridians know that aside from a rise in temperature, lots of rain and thunderstorms are on the way. As an industry leader in storm damage, SERVPRO has extensive knowledge of what it takes to both prevent damage as much as possible and thoroughly assess a property for damage once a storm has passed. Here are some tips to help you adequately prepare for the storms to come.

Storm Preparation Tips

Preventing Water Damage

1. Perform roof inspections regularly and search for shingles that are loose or curled. This applies to wind damage prevention also.
2. Properly grading your lot will help to prevent water from seeping into your property.
3. Proper drainage of your gutters is crucial for preventing leaks. Make sure to clear gutters and downspouts of any debris regularly.
4. Weather Stripping can be applied around doors and windows for a reduction in air and water leaks.
5. Search the property’s foundation walls and basement floor for any cracks and seal them completely.

Preventing Wind Damage

1. Minimize potential damage by replacing rock and gravel landscaping materials with shredded mulch.
2. Protect windows and glass doors by installing impact-resistant shutters or boarding up.
3. Relocate your outdoor items indoors and secure the items that can not be moved.
4. Make sure to trim down trees and shrubbery. Weak trees that may fall should be removed completely.
5. Park any vehicles away from trees, lampposts, and power lines.

Preventing Hail Damage

1. Make sure delicate outdoor items, furniture, and glass are covered and protected from potential hail impact.
2. During a hailstorm, keep doors and windows completely closed for the duration of the storm.
3. For added protection, install UL 2218 or FM 4473 as Class 3 or 4 roof shingles.
4. If you have a garage, keep your vehicles parked inside with the garage door completely closed.
5. If you do not have a garage or have more vehicles than your garage can fit, cover your vehicle(s) with a tarp to protect the paint. For added protection against dents and broken windows, try covering your vehicle with a thick blanket prior to tarping.

Local Storm Damage Help

If you follow the tips listed above, you have a higher chance of preventing serious damage to your home and property during a storm. However, disaster can strike at any time, so should you receive damage after a storm, SERVPRO of Winter Park is ready to assist you. Our phone lines are open 24/7 and our highly skilled technicians are available for services like water extraction and water damage restoration. For more details, give us a call at (407) 678-5391.