The Storm Damage Checklist: What to Look for

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

Falle tree on a house after a storm

After any storm hits in Houston County, GA, there’s usually some type of damage to deal with. It’s important to know what that damage looks like so you can fix it and make sure your home stays safe and secure for you and your family. That’s why we put together this quick guide to the different kinds of storm damage and how to fix them if they happen to strike your home, so you can get back to normal life as soon as possible!

Storm Damage Windows

Windows can be damaged from a storm in a few different ways. A window that breaks during a storm is an obvious example, but glass can crack even if it doesn't shatter. Since windows are typically made of glass, they're susceptible to cracking and shattering—especially when strong winds are involved. Cracks and chips don't always prevent windows from operating properly, but they allow outside air and moisture into your home. That is why it's important to inspect your windows thoroughly after a storm. If your windows have cracked or chipped glass, you should replace them immediately; keep in mind that storms are unpredictable so emergency repairs may be needed at any time.

Storm Damage Roof

After a storm, it’s important to check your roof and make sure it is still secure. Hire a professional roofer if you find any of these problems with your roof after a storm. Look carefully at your shingles. If any shingles are loose, cracking, and oddly indented, you may want to snap a photo and notify your insurance. Be sure to check for debris, exposed underlayment, detached fascia, or drip edge throughout the roof perimeter as well.

Clogged Gutters

Gutters are necessary for diverting water away from your home. This is particularly important during a storm, when high winds can turn hail into projectiles, or push rain into all kinds of home crevices. While you don't want them clogged in normal conditions, making sure they're clear and properly attached to your home after a storm is essential. As soon as you know there's been a storm in your area, look at your gutters and get rid of any leaves or other detritus that may have lodged there; same goes if it's been raining continuously over an extended period of time.

Also, watch for tree limbs or small branches throughout the gutters and downspouts. And don't forget to check on them regularly—once every few weeks is usually sufficient—and clean out any debris before another big storm hits.

Exterior Damage

Exterior damage can be caused by wind, rain, lightning or hail. If your home has exterior damage from a storm, don't just check your roof, gutters and windows. Take a look at your exterior wall siding, paint, and stucco. If you see siding that is detached, indented, cracked, discolored, or loose, you may want to have it inspected. Paint peeling, stucco cracks, or other visible imperfections on the exterior of your home may also be signs of storm damage. And don't forget to check brick walls, including the mortar joints, for any potential damage from the storm.

Be sure to inspect the outside of your home thoroughly for exterior damage after any large storm. If you are not sure what to look for, our teams are Here to Help!

Water Damage

Although most of us focus on damage from wind during a storm, water is an equally big concern. An average hurricane with winds of 74 miles per hour can bring rainfall ranging from 1/2 inch to over 5 inches in 24 hours. The resulting runoff often causes basement flooding, roof leaks and other hidden problems that can be expensive to repair. Be sure your homeowner's policy covers flood damage (if you live in a flood-prone area) and take steps to reduce your risk prior to a storm by clearing leaves and debris away from gutters and drains.

If there is exterior damage on the roof, windows, or exterior walls, water damage may not be far behind. If there is any kind of water or storm damage, SERVPRO of Houston County can help you get your property restored rapidly.

Call us at (478) 224-4148 for immediate assistance. Our teams are ready and Here to Help!