Summer Storms: Protecting Your Property from Damage

The heat and high humidity levels of summer can lead to unsettled weather, resulting in short but often intense summer storms.  It isn’t unusual for these storms to come on very suddenly and unexpected.  These powerful summer storms can lead to property damage, from roof shingles to falling trees and flooded basements.

There are steps that you can take now to ensure that your property is protected from damage during a summer storm.

Remove dead trees or overhanging branches

Dead or dying trees and branches close to the home can pose a risk during the strong winds that a summer storm can bring.  Removing these now can ensure that your property is not damaged by falling limbs.

Inspect the roof

Any loose or missing shingles should be addressed, as this can make your roof even more vulnerable during a storm.  Damaged or missing shingles can also make it more likely that water will penetrate areas of your home.

Clean the gutters

Gutters that are free of debris, including rotting leaves and dirt, can do their job effectively to move water away from the area.  This can go a long way to preventing flooding in or around the home.

Inspect the foundation

During periods of heavy rain, cracks in the foundation can quickly lead to major water damage.  Correcting this now ensures that no water can penetrate the home’s foundation, even during the wildest summer storm.

Secure outdoor furniture

In the event that a storm is coming or if you will be away and unable to keep an eye on the weather, secure any outdoor furniture.  Strong winds and heavy rains during a storm can damage the furniture and also the house itself if it is struck.

Close windows and secure doors

With heavy winds, windows and doors can be damaged unless they are secured in place.  This will also prevent rain from entering the home and damaging the floor or furniture.

Look around for water

If you are home during the storm, keep an eye on vulnerable areas of your home.  The basement and attic in particular should be checked regularly during heavy rain to ensure that water is not getting in.

If your home is damaged by a summer storm, you should contact your homeowner’s insurance company immediately to report the damage.  If you experience water damage, this should be addressed right away as this and the summer heat can quickly lead to optimal conditions for mold growth in the home.

The team at Soil-Away is on call 24/7 to assist homeowners that have experience damage from a summer storm.  You can reach Soil-Away at 603-641-6555.