Here in the Northeast, we’ve been subject to serious hurricanes in the warmer months and snow storm in the winter. By ensuring that your home is ready for a storm whenever one is coming, you can reduce the damage that the storm leaves in its wake. A few things to do now and when storms are on their way to protect your home from storm damage:
1. Get your gutters cleaned out.
Gutters can become clogged with fallen leaves and other detritus. When water doesn’t have a clear path, it can pool and cause flooding. To avoid restoration costs after the fact, make sure that rainwater can drain properly. Experts say your gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year.
2. Trim deadwood.
Dead limbs on trees are more likely to break off in high winds or under the weight of heavy snow. By getting them properly trimmed whenever dead limbs are noticed, you can reduce the chances that a flying branch will break a window or that one will fall on your home or car.
3. Bring in outdoor furniture.
If there is a chance that a tropical storm or hurricane is headed toward Newtown, bring outdoor tables and chairs inside. Items like basketball hoops that cannot be brought in should be secured.
4. Consider boarding your windows.
Emergency boarding can keep water and debris out of your home when a severe storm with high winds is expected. New England Restoration offers emergency board-up services to save you the trouble of buying and installing plywood sheets.
5. Inspect your roof.
If your roof is a few years old, its ability to withstand severe weather may be compromised. Make sure that there are no loose shingles, sheathing or nails. Any of these can lead to large pieces of your roof becoming dislodged and letting water get inside. If your roof is more than 15 years old, consider roof replacement, as it can become easily damaged by severe weather.
By taking these and other precautions in advance, you can significantly reduce the chances that your home will be damaged should a severe storm occur.
In the unfortunate event that your home is damaged in a storm, it is important to act right away. Over a short period of time, water can cause severe damage to materials in your home and can begin to harbor dangerous contaminants. Get in touch for a free assessment.
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