3 Basic Steps To Avoid Storm Damage

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

Avoid storm damage in your home.

Whether it's a warm season or one with low temperatures, there's still the possibility of heavy storms and harsh weather conditions, such as powerful winds, a lot of precipitation, and rising flood water. While you probably don't have a lot of control over the weather, there are several things you can do to control the amount of damage your Blackfoot, ID, home and property experience:

3 Steps to Protect Your Home From Storm Damage

Trim Your Trees and Shrubs

Heavy branches and dead limbs can break away during a severe storm. As they are blown about by the wind, these branches can cause a lot of damage to the windows and exterior of your home. A mix of heavy rainfall and strong winds may cause trees with shallow root systems to fall over. Prune and trim your trees and shrubs consistently to avoid this type of damage.

Clean Out the Gutters Around Your Roof

It's easy to forget about the possibility of debris and damage in the gutters, but this situation can lead to a lot of water damage. When the gutters get clogged, water doesn't flow away from the home as it should. This is one common cause of a flooded building. Clean the gutters as each season passes, and if there's been a lot of heavy winds and rain, clean them out more frequently.

Store Your Belongings in Waterproof Containers

Many homeowners pack family mementos, off-season clothes, camping supplies, tools and machinery, and seasonal items in cardboard boxes in their basements and garages. Unfortunately, strong winds and a lot of rain can send flood water into those areas of the home. Protect your belongings by storing them in waterproof containers and keep them off the floor when possible.

What else have you done to prepare for an emergency? Do you have phone numbers for emergency responders, your insurance company, and local water damage cleanup professionals? Do you know how you'll respond if flood water fills your basement? Take time today to come up with a plan.