None of us knows for certain when a storm will hit, or how severe it will be. Storms can bring dangerous lightening, treacherous high winds, and damaging hail. Often storms will not be severe enough to cause serious damage to our homes interior, but the outside of the houses take a beating. Here are some tips to counteract the damages that might just happen to the outside of your home

Sitting inside your home during a storm can be very nerve-wracking. Any kind of pounding storm whether it is thunderbolts and lighting, high winds, or hail it can make a homeowner pace and jump at every little noise!

Steps to Follow After Storm Damage:

Here are some tips to help you if your home’s exterior is victim of a brutal windstorm.

Windstorm Damage:

A windstorm can bring a myriad of problems with it. It s not likely your house will be carried off in a windstorm, but there are still some very real concerns: Falling trees, flying (large) debris, falling power lines, lost shingles, and ripped off gutters. Here are some practical solutions to help you recover.

Fallen Tree:

If a tree falls on your house, this is probably a job for a professional. If the fallen tree causes serious damage like a hole in the roof, try to block the hole with plastic to stop further damage.

Debris:

If there is a lot of flying debris, stay away from windows. Be careful walking around your yard after the storm, there could be trip hazards.

Downed Power Lines

Call the power company immediately if any power lines are down. You may need to leave if your home becomes unsafe. Never try to move a line –it could be live!

Roof Damage:

If your shingles have lifted or pulled completely away from your roof, cover the area until it can be repaired.

Exposed Areas & Water Damage:

Any areas of your home that were exposed to water have the potential to grow mold, or begin to rot. Mold can not only ruin your exterior finish, but also can cause serious health problems for you and your family. Rot can compromise the structural integrity of your home and make it unsafe to live in. Even homes with siding should be checked for mold and mildew under the siding. To check for mold, pull back slightly on the base of the siding to look for any signs of molding or water damage.

Water can seep into the foundation of your home and be wicked up by insulation. Indications will be puffiness, or buckling under your siding.

If you discover any “hidden” problems like mold, algae, or rot, you might want to employ a licensed professional. Calling a professional company may be the best way to assure your home is repaired correctly and you are not overlooking any dangerous indicating serious underlying damage.

Saving your home’s exterior after a storm