Preparing Your Property for Storms | SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties
9/19/2023 (Permalink)
Wind, hail, rain, tornadoes and floods…we see it all here in western Wisconsin. The weather can be perfectly pleasant and sunny one minute and then quickly turn severe the next, so being prepared for anything is crucial.
Being a homeowner is rewarding, but it takes a lot of work to protect it from damage and ensure everything functions smoothly. On top of taking care of everyday maintenance, you also need to take steps to prepare your home for damages that could result due to a severe storm.
At this point in the season, the hot and humid weather can produce sunny days in the morning but then turn into severe thunderstorms in the evening, and we can expect a lot of rain, wind and hail to accompany them.
Prepping the outside of your home is a great place to start! Read on as we offer our storm preparation tips so you can get your own home ready.
Preparing for storms should be something that happens with the change in season, but these preparation methods can occur alongside your regular work routines.
Keep your trees trimmed, clean your gutters frequently and remove loose yard debris when you are outside doing yard work. Debris can easily be picked up by wind and tossed into your house, and a clogged gutter can quickly lead to water damage. Don’t forget to pull your patio furniture inside and secure down any outdoor equipment.
Another helpful way to avoid storm damage is to check your doors and windows for potential leaking. Keep your caulk lines fresh around your seals and check for deteriorating or rotting wood. Replace missing shingles and watch for gaps around your roofline and gutters.
While most preparations for storms can be done without having to spend much money, there are steps you can take with a little bit of extra cash to take your preparation to the next level.
Storm shutters can help protect your home and windows from extensive damage. If your home is located in a wooded area or an open field, the wind can either topple trees or really pick up speed. These shutters protect your windows from breaking and from leaking water. Gutter guards are also an easy way to prevent leaf buildup, pine needles and other debris out of your gutters.
If you have a pole shed or outbuilding on your property, adding reinforcements to the bracing or roof of these buildings can help support them when the wind picks up.
Lastly, have two ways to receive weather alerts, including one that doesn’t require power in order to operate. Remember, if you do suffer storm damage, our SERVPRO® team is here 24⁄7 to respond to your call for help.
Was your home damaged in a storm? Call us at SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties to start restoration, 24⁄7.