You never know when a storm will strike, but it's best to prepare for any damage to your property. Here are some common signs of storm destruction to your house and how you best address the fallout.
1. Damage to Your Roof
Maybe a nasty thunderstorm blew through your neighborhood last night and took a few of your shingles with it. If you find them littering your lawn, pull out a ladder and do a quick inspection of your roof. You’ll likely find a patch of missing tiles.
If you have a tarp and you feel comfortable, climb up and place it over the damaged section to protect the interior of your home. Your roof is likely now compromised, and if you continue to have bad storms, you could get a leak inside the house. Moving forward, you'll either need to patch your roof or hire someone to do the job for you.
If you decide to hire a contractor to repair your roof and live in a northern state, inquire about installing an ice shield. Roof shingles aren’t waterproof, but they are water-resistant. Each winter, when snow accumulates on your roof and then melts, your shingles are flooded. Installing an ice shield provides additional protection against melting snow.
Another way to confirm you’ve incurred damage to your roof is by inspecting your gutters. Make sure they aren’t bent or broken, as they need to function correctly and drain water away from your property. If you find any broken or bent pieces, quickly replace them yourself or with the help of a professional.
2. Damage to Your Fireplace
Many people look forward to using their fireplace to warm the home when it gets cold out. However, when it comes time to light a fire, you might find that your chimney sustained damage you didn't even realize due to heavy hail, wind or rain. Broken chimney caps are one of the most common repair issues people face with their fireplaces. Chimney caps are necessary for your fireplace to function correctly — keeping things properly ventilated and protecting your chimney from wild animals and the elements.
Another issue to be on the lookout for with heavy storm damage is a cracked chimney flue. Extinguish your fire immediately if you suspect this. A cracked flue can trap heat in your house, risking a fire or even causing CO2 to leak into your home.
3. Damage to Your Walls or Windows
If a tree branch crashes into your home during a storm, breaking a window or damaging a wall, you first want to ensure everyone in your family is safe. The best course of action is to call 911 and then leave your house to get a look at the damage done to your property. If you smell smoke, stay outside of your home until authorities arrive and clear the scene.
Depending on the severity of the destruction, you might need assistance in boarding up the broken windows. A local contractor can help you patch a hole in your wall until more permanent work can be done. Also, don’t forget to contact your insurance company to file a claim. Depending on the situation and your insurance, you may be covered.
4. Damage to Your Pipes
If you notice a sudden problem with your water — either your pipes are leaking or you turn on your faucet and no water comes out — turn off your water source. Before you proceed, you'll want to ensure no more water can add to the mess. Next, unplug all appliances in the area and remove valuable devices. Contact a licensed plumber for their help. Then begin to remove excess water from the site.
No water coming from your pipes following a storm could be evidence of a more significant issue in your community. Check in with local news sources online for more information. If nothing has happened, contact a plumbing professional to help resolve your issue.
How to Fix Storm Damage Around Your House
The idea of dealing with an emergency on your property is less than ideal. However, now that you know how to repair your home in four key areas, you'll be more than prepared if the worst happens.
Author bio: Rose Morrison is the managing editor of Renovated, where she offers advice on home renovation, maintenance, and organization.nd slow-paced lifestyle now, because your little ones will be back in school before you know it!
