The Many Hazards Severe Storms Pose to Your Home | SERVPRO® of Downtown Charleston

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

Storm/lightning damage requires specialized restoration techniques & equipment. When a storm hits, you need a company with experience & expertise.

The threats that storms bring with them can take many different forms. The unpredictable and sudden nature of severe weather can do a number on your home.

Understanding the impact these hazards can have on your Charleston property is the best way to prepare your home to endure storms of all types.

In Charleston, the cost of flood damage is high—and expected to continue rising. Flooding and other weather-related damage might result in expensive repairs.

Fortunately, by being aware of how the weather could affect your property, you can minimize your risk of damage. Here are a few of the hazards you can prepare your home for ahead of time:

Severe Winds

Strong winds can reach speeds of up to 100 mph. Wind gusts cause damage to the exterior of your property by blowing debris into the air, shattering windows and sending branches flying. Stronger wind gusts have the power to uproot trees, causing them to crash into your house and even rip off roofs!

Secure outdoor items and clear your yard of any debris, such as tree branches, to prepare your property for strong winds brought on by weather conditions like hurricanes. Cutting any tree limbs that might hang over your home’s roof can also help you create a safer landscape. Make sure to frequently inspect your roof to make sure it can withstand strong winds.

Flooding and Water Damage

We are located right along the coast, so flooding is a prevalent issue for Charleston residents. Floodwater can pour into any openings around your house and compromise its structural integrity.

Under the right circumstances, flood damage can develop quickly, destroying your home’s belongings and fostering the growth of mold.

To safeguard your home from flooding, be aware of your flood zone and keep an eye on any local flood warnings or watches that are issued.

You can also take steps to protect your home by adding plants and other vegetation to your yard, which can prevent flood water from flowing through your home. To avoid blockages and allow water to drain away from your home, be sure to regularly clear leaves and other debris from your gutters and drains.

Hail Storms

Hail can grow to be as big as softballs sometimes, but even the smallest hailstones can inflict damage to your home. Hail moves fast and can quickly damage roofs and windows, as well as any outdoor items like your patio or vehicles.

To reduce the risk of hail damage, keep your shutters and blinds closed at all times during hail storms to keep dangerous weather from affecting the inside of your home.

Regular roof inspections have previously been mentioned, so it should go without saying that they are an essential part of preventing storm damage to your property! To extend the longevity of your roof, make sure to repair it if you see any signs of aging or damage.

If your home is damaged by one or more of the many threats severe weather creates, our team at SERVPRO can help. Our team can begin restoring your home immediately to promptly restore it to its pre-storm state.