Autumn brings cooler temperatures and changing leaves — but it can also bring severe weather. Ensuring that your property is ready for fall and winter storms will reduce the risk of major damage and keep your family safe. Here’s what you should do.
1. Secure Loose Items
Strong winds can turn outdoor furniture, toys, and other objects into airborne projectiles. Secure these items or move them indoors when a storm is in the forecast. Seasonal items should be packed away for winter to prevent damage.
2. Clean the Gutters
As fallen leaves accumulate in the gutter, they can create clogs that prevent proper drainage. This could cause the gutters to overflow during a heavy rainstorm, resulting in basement flooding or damage to the roof and siding. Clean gutters regularly during the fall!
3. Trim Trees
Overhanging tree branches can scrape off shingles or cause significant damage if they break off and fall onto the roof. Have an arborist trim any branches that overhang your home during the fall, as weak branches are more likely to break off when weighed down by winter snow and ice.
4. Fix Roofing Damage
As you are cleaning gutters and trimming trees, you should also check for roof damage such as cracked or missing shingles, or damaged flashing. Address any needed repairs so your roof won’t be vulnerable to leaks and other damage from winter weather.
5. Prep an Emergency Kit
Do you have everything you need if the power goes out? What about if you can’t heat your home? Prepare an emergency kit and make an emergency plan for when severe storms strike. For example, you may need an emergency food supply with items that can be prepared when you can’t use the stove or microwave. Warm blankets and clothing are a must if you can’t heat your home during a power outage.
6. Know How to Respond to Damage
When a major storm causes damage to your home, you can’t afford to wait. The longer you wait, the more vulnerable your property is to additional damage from weather, animals, and other hazards. Knowing who to call to begin timely repairs (including boarding up and tarping over damaged areas) will keep damage in check.
If you need help recovering after a fall storm damages your property, contact Shrock Restoration. Our team is available 24/7 to help you begin the recovery and restoration process so your life can get back to normal.
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