Did you know that weather-related and climate-related calamities would cause damage totaling 22 billion dollars in 2020?
Storms happen all across the country every year and it’s not the weather you’re worried about. You’re worried about how to handle any potential weather damage.
How do you spot possible storm damage and what will you do if you do see signs of possible damage? You’ve come to the right place, then. This article has all of the answers to all of your questions.
Read on for our guide to the signs of storm damage on a house.
Hail Damage
Hail damage can be seen in dents in the metal shingles or missing shingles. Another sign is hail damage to the gutters or roof of the house. This damage is usually in the form of dents or holes.
Wind Damage
House wind damage can manifest itself in a number of ways, including fallen trees, and broken windows. Either the house has been hit by flying debris, or the house has sustained high winds.
If the house has been hit by flying debris, there will be damage to the exterior of the house, and possibly to the roof.
If the house has sustained high winds, there will be roof damage, and possibly to the windows. There will also be damage to the doors and windows. In both cases, there will be debris around the house.
Water Damage
One sign of water damage is if the house has water stains on the ceilings or walls. These stains can be from rainwater that has leaked into the house through cracks in the roof or windows.
This can also manifest as flooding in the basement, or water seeping through cracks in the foundation.
If a storm has hit your area, it is important to inspect your home for damage and make any necessary repairs to prevent further damage from occurring.
Structural Damage
If the house has been moved from its foundation, some signs include cracks in foundation walls, floors, or ceilings; and doors or windows that no longer line up with their openings.
If the exterior walls have pulled away from the rest of the house, that is also a sign of structural damage. In a severe storm, the entire house may be blown off its foundation or even carried away.
Electrical Damage
A sign of electrical damage from a storm on a house is if the power is out in the house or in the neighborhood. This could be from a downed power line or a transformer that has blown.
If there are sparks or fires coming from electrical outlets or fixtures, this is also a sign of electrical damage and should be addressed immediately.
Another sign is if appliances or electronics in the house are not working properly. This could be from a power surge that has damaged the equipment.
If you see any of these signs, it is important to call an electrician to assess the damage and make any repairs that are needed.
Siding Damage
Siding damage is one of the most obvious signs that your home has been hit by severe weather. This can be in the form of cracks, holes, or missing pieces.
Trees Damage
The most obvious sign of home damage because of the storm is when trees have fallen on it. This can cause damage to the exterior and interior finishes.
Chimney Damage
If your house has suffered any type of storm damage, it’s important to inspect your chimney right away. Look for any cracks or damage to the bricks or mortar.
Also, check for any loose or missing bricks. If you notice any damage, it’s important to have it repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your home.
Lightning Damage
There are a few signs of storm damage on a house that can be caused by lightning. One is if there are any charred areas on the outside of the house. This can be checked by looking for any blackened areas on the siding or roof.
How to Avoid Costly Storm Damage to Your Home
When severe weather is on the horizon, it’s important to be proactive and take steps to protect your home from storm damage. These are the things you can do to protect your home against severe storm damage.
Contact a Professional
If you see any of these signs, or if you suspect any other damage, it’s important to have a professional expert in roof repair and installation take a look as soon as possible to assess the damage.
Storm damage can lead to serious problems if it’s not repaired promptly, so don’t delay in getting help.
Check Roof Frequently
The roof is one of the most important parts of your house, and it’s important to check it frequently. Some of the signs of storm damage on a roof include missing or damaged shingles, leaks, and holes.
Protect Furniture That Can Get Harmed
It’s important to take action to protect your furniture. Covering up broken windows with plywood or tarps can help prevent further damage, and it’s important to remove any downed trees or branches that could cause further damage to your home.
Proper Maintenance
Without proper maintenance, your home is susceptible to storm damage. Proper maintenance can help to prevent storm damage.
This includes things like having your roof inspected and repaired regularly, keeping your gutters clean, and trimming trees and shrubs around your home.
Protect Your Home From Storm Damage
Most homeowners are aware of the obvious signs of storm damage on a house, such as missing shingles or broken windows. But there are also some less obvious signs that could indicate serious damage.
If you see any of these signs after a storm, it’s important to have your house inspected. The sooner you can address the problem, the less damage it will cause to your home.
For more tips on making your home as functional and as beautiful as possible, be sure to check out the other articles on our site!
