Protection From All the Storms | SERVPRO of Geauga County
7/1/2024 (Permalink)
![Roofers removing old material from a house in preparation for storm damage repair.](/FranchiseContent/NewsPhotos/10360-5b8f1e87-432d-4cf1-ae85-1be5410d3c8f.jpeg)
If you were going to choose a peaceful noise to help you fall asleep, would you go with the sound of a thunderstorm? When it comes to stormy weather, people tend to either love or hate it. No matter which camp you fall into, when storms get severe, we are all at risk for damage.
Our weather can bring us anything from blizzards in the winter to tornadoes in the summer. With such volatile weather almost always a possibility, it is crucial to do everything we can to keep our homes and our families protected.
With some simple action steps around your house, you can be protected from all the storms.
Home Maintenance
Preparing your home for storms can be as simple as tackling some regular maintenance inside and outside. Just about every storm—including thunderstorms, rainstorms and tornadoes—will include potentially strong winds and drenching rain. That makes your yard and your roof the best places to start when it comes to protecting your house.
Twice a year and after any strong wind event, spend time checking your roof. Repair loose shingles, and make sure the flashing around your chimney is well-sealed. Check for soft spots that could be indicators of water damage. While you are investigating your roof, make sure your gutter system is in good shape. Keep them clear of debris and reattach anything that comes loose.
Trim trees and shrubs regularly, and pick up sticks in your yard on a regular basis. If you have tall trees, consider having them professionally trimmed every five to 10 years to keep your home protected from the possibility of fallen limbs. A professional can also assess the health of a tree and advise on the need for a total removal.
Home Upgrades
While protecting your home doesn’t have to cost you anything but time, there are some upgrades you may want to consider to keep things as safe as possible. These range from some pretty simple and affordable upgrades to a few financial investments that will last the life of your property.
Updating the seals on your windows and doors is a great way to not only keep moisture out, but to also keep your home strong when winds are high. Check the caulking and replace it when it shows signs of aging, and make sure there are no gaps or cracks. Weather stripping is an inexpensive way to keep things tightly sealed.
If your windows are more than 10 years old, it may be in your best interest to replace them altogether. Consider going with windows that are rated for strong winds and adding storm shutters. This will offer your home the most security during a thunderstorm or tornado as you can quickly close shutters and move to a sheltered location.
When you take the time to protect your home, you can rest a little easier when severe weather is predicted. Take steps to prepare ahead of a storm, and you could even find yourself switching to the “love storms” camp before you know it.
Do you have storm damage you need cleaned up? Contact us day or night.