Preventing Storm Damage to Your Home

"Out like a lion, in like a lamb" is often used to describe the spring season.However, some areas seem to have been experiencing a lot more lion than lamb lately. Heavy rains, strong winds, and even lightning strikes can be common during the spring months. Homeowners can be prepared for seasonal storm damage by taking preventative measures. 

Follow these tips if you want to prepare your house to prevent post-storm issues like missing shingles, cracked siding, or flooding! 

Tips for Preventing Storm Damage to Your Home

Whether you're gearing up for spring and summer storms or battening down the hatches for a winter blizzard, these tips will help your home stay safe. 

1.Keep an eye out for dead trees or limbs 

Strong winds, heavy ice, and other weather phenomena can pose a risk to dead trees or tree limbs, causing them to fall. The fall may damage your home, outdoor living space, or even vehicles. Because trees may not appear obviously diseased, hollowed out, or dead, you might want to consider calling a trustworthy tree service to inspect your yard. 

2.Clean and unclog gutters 

Gutters are what help funnel heavy rain away from your home. They are necessary for preventing water damage like mold and mildew on your siding or foundation. For gutters to work properly, they need to be free from debris. Cleaning your gutters and downspouts should be on your to-do list at least a few times a year, especially during the spring and summer. 

3.Geta roof inspection 

It can be tricky to keep track of the state of your roof. Due to its high elevation, inspecting it for loose or missing shingles as well as other issues, isn't easy. Getting an annual roof inspection and completing any suggested maintenance can help strengthen your roof, giving you better protection indoors when storms arrive. 

4.Take a closer look at your foundation 

Water damage and flooding is often a major concern during storms. Cracks or gaps inyour foundation can expose your home to water damage, allowing runoff to see pin. If you do see a crack during your inspection, be sure to repair it. Regular water issues or flooding may mean it is time to call a professional to assess your foundation. 

5.Shutter your windows 

If you live in an area prone to extreme weather, you may need to invest in shutters.Hurricane shutters and other protective layers can help keep debris, high wind, and hail from shattering your window panes. Even if you do not have shutters, drawing the blinds or shades during a storm can be an effective safety measure to keep the broken glass from entering your home. 

6.Consider your exterior living space 

Protecting your house during a storm is a top priority, but don't forget about your exterior space. When landscaping, ensure you have proper sloping away from your home. Creating downhill slopes with soil helps to draw water away from your foundation. Next, choose outdoor furniture wisely. Ideally, you'll want sturdy options or something easy to pack away quickly. Patio seating, decoration, and more can turn into missiles during intense storms. To protect your outdoor furniture and decor from winter storms, storing them safely inside is best. 

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