Storms can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. They bring destructive winds, heavy rain, flash floods, and the potential for devastating damage to your home. These weather events can wreak havoc on your property, causing major structural damage and leaving you with costly repairs.
However, with proper preparation and planning, you can prevent future storm damage to your home. At DOM Solutions, we care about the safety and well-being of homeowners, which is why we’ve compiled these helpful tips for protecting your house from storm damage.
Keep Your Gutters Clean
One simple yet effective way to protect your home from storm damage is by regularly cleaning and maintaining your gutters. Over time, gutters can become clogged with debris, such as leaves, twigs, and other debris. This can lead to overflowing gutters, which can cause water to seep into your roof or foundation, causing water damage. Make sure to clean your gutters at least twice a year and consider installing gutter guards to prevent debris from building up.
Trim Trees and Branches
Another way to prevent storm damage to your home is by keeping your trees and branches trimmed. During strong winds, branches or trees can break and cause extensive damage to your home. Regularly trimming trees and removing dead or weak branches can reduce the risk of them falling and causing damage. It’s also essential to remove any trees that are too close to your home and could potentially fall on or damage the property.
Reinforce Your Roof
Roofs are often the most vulnerable part of a house during storms. To prevent future storm damage, consider reinforcing your roof with hurricane straps or clips, which can help keep your roof securely attached to the rest of your home. You can also invest in impact-resistant roofing materials, such as metal or asphalt shingles, that can withstand strong winds and hail.
Get An Annual Roofing Inspection
Protecting your home from the effects of severe weather is a top priority for any homeowner. Storm damage can be costly and time-consuming to repair, which is why it’s important to take preventative measures to safeguard your property. One of the most effective ways to do this is by getting an annual roofing inspection.
At DOM Solutions, we understand the importance of maintaining a strong and sturdy roof. As a restoration company in the industry for many years, we have seen firsthand the impact of neglecting regular inspections. Here are a few reasons why we highly recommend scheduling an annual roofing inspection to prevent future storm damage:
1. Identify and Repair Weak Points
During an inspection, our trained professionals will thoroughly examine your roof for any signs of wear and tear. They will check for cracked or missing shingles, damaged flashing, and areas where water may be pooling.
These weak points are vulnerable to storm damage and can lead to leaks and other issues during severe weather. By identifying and repairing these weak points proactively, you can minimize the potential damage from a storm.
2. Ensure Proper Drainage
A properly functioning drainage system is crucial in preventing storm damage. Gutters and downspouts that are clogged with debris can cause water to back up and pool on your roof, which can eventually lead to leaks and structural damage. During a roofing inspection, our team will clean and inspect your gutter system to ensure it’s working efficiently.
3. Detect Early Signs of Damage
Regular inspections allow us to catch any early signs of damage before they turn into major issues. For example, if we spot a small crack in your roof, we can quickly repair it before it becomes a larger problem during a storm. By addressing issues early on, you can save yourself the hassle and expense of dealing with more significant damage down the road.
Secure Outdoor Items
Outdoor furniture, tools, and other items left in your yard can become dangerous projectiles during a storm. To prevent them from causing damage to your home, make sure to secure them or bring them inside before the storm hits. This will not only protect your home but also prevent these items from being damaged or lost.
Seal Windows and Doors
Windows and doors are other vulnerable areas during storms. Make sure to check and replace any worn weather seals to prevent water from seeping in and causing damage. You can also install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows to protect your home during storms.
Have a Backup Power Source
Power outages are common during severe storms, so it’s a good idea to have a backup power source, such as a generator, in case of emergency. This will allow you to continue using essential appliances and keep your home safe and secure.
Check Your Insurance Coverage
No matter how prepared you are, sometimes, storms can still cause damage to your home. It’s essential to regularly review your insurance coverage to ensure that you have adequate coverage for storm damage. Consider adding flood insurance if you live in an area prone to flooding, as it’s usually not covered by standard homeowner’s insurance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, protecting your home from future storm damage is not a one-time task; it requires regular maintenance and preparation. By following these tips and being proactive, you can reduce the risk of storm damage to your home and save yourself from costly repairs.
At DOM Solutions, we are committed to helping homeowners protect their properties from storm damage. Contact us today for more information on how we can help secure your home or feel free to check us on Yelp anytime!