Many homeowners are dismayed to find out that thunderstorms and severe weather can cause water damage services to be needed. Even homeowners that do not live in a flood zone or right in the eye of the hurricane zone, need to be prepared for the damage that severe storms cause. Luckily, there are some tips and tricks to storm-proofing your house that we can share with you to help you be ready for the next bout of terrible weather that comes your way.
- Window and Door Seals- One of the best ways to avoid needing water damage services is to seal your windows and doors before storm season begins. Seals that are old or broken will not stop rain from getting into your home and can even let flies, gnats, and spiders into your home.
- Roof Maintenance- Every year before storms begin you should have a roof inspection completed to check for loose or missing shingles, leaks, and damage from pest infestations. Shingles that are cracked need to be sealed or replaced and adding a waterproofing seal with help stop roof leaks from happening during severe weather and beyond to extend the life of your roof. If hurricane weather is expected, you should install roof straps.
- Seal Any Holes- Check where the HVAC system attaches to the outside of the home, crawlspace entrances, chimney’s, dryer vents, and other holes that lead from inside to outside your home and make sure they are sealed. Caulking is an effective way to achieve a seal.
- Clean Up the Yard- One of the worst things that can happen is yard furniture such as your patio table or a chair getting picked up in high winds and thrown right through your window or walls. When you know severe weather is happening in your area, remove all patio and yard furniture and ornaments and stow them away for safety. Trampolines and pool cover should also be secured.
Sometimes no matter how well you prepare for storms and severe weather you are going to experience flooding and need water damage services to help with the cleanup. Make sure your homeowner’s insurance covers water damage services of your choice, and then contact the ServiceMaster nearest you.
Customers in the Greater Pittsburgh area can contact ServiceMaster at 412-314-3832.