Storm Damage Prevention: What Can We Do?

7/20/2023 (Permalink)

Preparing your property and staying on top of maintenance can help minimize the impact of severe weather.

Key Takeaways:

• Regular property maintenance is essential to prevent storm damage
• Protecting windows and doors can reduce the risk of damage
• Proper tree maintenance and removal can prevent damage to property
• Having a plan in place and knowing what to do after a storm can help minimize damage and restoration costs

As a homeowner or property manager, storm damage can be a nightmare to deal with. From water damage to wind damage, storms can cause significant harm to your property, not to mention the added stress and expense of cleaning up and restoring your property to its former state. However, there are many steps you can take to prevent storm damage and minimize the impact of any severe weather that may come your way.

Inspect Your Property Regularly

One of the best things you can do to prevent storm damage is to inspect your property regularly. Check your gutters for debris and ensure they are properly installed and free of any leaks. Inspect your roof for missing shingles, cracks, or other signs of damage. Look for any signs of damage or wear on your doors, windows, and siding. Make sure your trees are trimmed and free from any dead or weak branches that could fall during a storm. These simple inspections can help you identify potential problem areas before they turn into costly repairs.

Prepare Your Property for Severe Weather

Another critical step in preventing storm damage is to prepare your property for severe weather. If you live in an area prone to high winds, it’s a good idea to install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows to protect your home’s windows. If you live in an area prone to flooding, make sure you have a sump pump and a backup generator to keep your basement dry in the event of a power outage. If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, make sure your roof is properly secured to your home’s frame and consider installing hurricane straps to prevent your roof from separating during high winds.

Keep Up with Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential for preventing storm damage. Clean your gutters at least twice a year to prevent water damage from overflowing gutters. Trim your trees regularly to prevent dead branches from falling during a storm. Make sure your roof is inspected annually for signs of wear and tear. Keep your siding, windows, and doors in good repair to prevent water from entering your home. Regular maintenance may seem like a hassle, but it’s much easier and less expensive than dealing with storm damage after the fact.

Know When to Call in the Professionals

Despite your best efforts, sometimes storm damage is unavoidable. In these cases, it’s important to know when to call in the professionals. SERVPRO of South and Northwest Grand Rapids is always ready to help with storm damage restoration efforts. Our team of experts can help with everything from water extraction and mold remediation to repairing structural damage and restoring your property to its former state. Don’t try to tackle storm damage restoration on your own – call in the experts at SERVPRO of South and Northwest Grand Rapids for fast, reliable service.

Final Thoughts

While it’s impossible to prevent all storm damage, taking the time to prepare your property and stay on top of maintenance can help minimize the impact of severe weather. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can rest easy knowing that you’ve done everything possible to protect your property from storm damage. And if the worst does happen, SERVPRO of South and Northwest Grand Rapids is always here to help with storm damage restoration efforts. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help protect your property.