How Do I Prevent Property Damage From Storms?
The best way to prevent property damage from storms is to make sure you are prepared beforehand by storm-proofing your home.
Blizzards, tornados, hail and wind, hurricanes, and more are storms that people all across the nation face throughout the year. Homeowners in America will all experience different types of storms and, depending on their region, some of these storms are more severe than others. So when inclement weather inevitably heads your way, the best defense against these tumultuous storms is to storm-proof your house to prevent damage.
Continue reading to learn more about avoiding property damage during a storm.
How to Prevent Property Damage from Storms
Thankfully, you can prevent property damage caused by extreme storms by taking the following precautions. Here’s how:
Prepare Your Windows — Because of its fragile nature, glass is susceptible to damage, especially during intense storms. Unfortunately, your home windows are at stake. If extreme weather is headed your way, your best bet against broken windows is using storm shutters or plywood to board them up.
In regions that often experience strong winds and intense weather conditions, installing storm shutters is probably your best option — definitely the better investment in the long run. Today’s storm shutters effectively fix shattered windows and come in various styles to match your specific aesthetic.
Get Your Roof Storm-Ready — Heavy snow and rainfall, extreme wind, and other types of intense weather can seriously damage your roof, especially in its weaker areas. Before the storm hits, take time to make necessary repairs to your roof. Doing this will help prevent leaks and other problems that can lead to further costly damage. So, a couple of days before a forecasted storm hits, carefully (and responsibly) climb to your roof and look for signs of wear, like loose, damaged, or missing shingles.
For loose shingles, lift the bottom edges and apply adhesive caulk to their undersides and apply pressure with your foot for several moments so it can set. For shingles that are cracked or torn, use the caulk directly on the fracture to seal it. The good news is that these minor fixes are relatively easy and can be handled yourself, or you can call in a professional to take care of the inspection and repairs.
Other Preventative Measures — Well before a storm hits, make time to take some other preventative measures. Walk around your house and the perimeter of your property so you can address any loose ends and batten down the hatches. For example:
- Fasten Your Outdoor Furnishings — Between your grill, patio furniture, and lawn games and decor, it’s vital to bring in or fasten down anything that could blow away during a storm.
- Trim Trees — Whether it’s a heavy snowstorm or an intense windstorm coming your way, trimming overhanging tree limbs and removing dead branches can prevent significant property damage during a storm.
- Clean Out Your Gutter System — Most storms are accompanied by rain, and gutters that are not functioning effectively or efficiently can cause significant property damage.
Contact Hudson Douglas Public Adjusters
Unfortunately, it isn’t always possible to prevent property damage during a storm, so having Hudson Douglas Public Adjusters experts on your side is essential. Our team of professionals is here to represent you, not your insurance company and is dedicated to working hard to resolve your claim promptly. So if you live in Arizona, Utah, Nevada, Colorado, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, or New Jersey, contact us to receive your free claim review today.
