Summer storms across the Southeast can bring heavy rain, strong winds and severe thunderstorms with little warning. The good news? A little preparation can go a long way toward protecting your home.
Knowing what kind of damage to look for and taking a few simple precautions can help you feel more prepared when a storm rolls in.
1. Common Types of Storm Damage
Storm damage is not always obvious. Some problems appear immediately, while others may remain hidden until they become more serious. Common issues include:
- Roof and exterior damage: Strong winds and flying debris can damage shingles, siding, windows and doors, creating openings where water can enter.
- Water damage: Wind driven Rain can damage floors, walls and belongings.
- Drywall and insulation damage: Once water gets inside, drywall and insulation can absorb moisture and become difficult to dry.
- Basement and crawl space flooding: Poor drainage, foundation cracks or a failed sump pump can allow water to collect in the lower areas of your home.
- Mold growth: Warm temperatures and trapped moisture can create the right conditions for mold.
- Hidden moisture: Water can become trapped behind walls, above ceilings, or under flooring, causing damage you may not notice right away.
- Musty odors: A musty smell in your basement, garage, bathroom or kitchen may be a sign of hidden moisture.
2. Simple Ways to Help Prevent Water Damage
A few simple products and routine maintenance steps can help protect your home before severe weather arrives.
- Roof and exterior inspections: Look for damaged or missing shingles, loose siding and gaps around windows or doors. Have any problems repaired before the next storm.
- Gutters and downspouts: Keep gutters clear and make sure downspouts direct water away from your home’s foundation.
- Sump pumps: If your basement or crawl space is prone to flooding, a sump pump can help remove water. A battery backup can keep it running during a power outage.
- Sealants: Check windows, doors and other areas where water could enter, and reseal them when needed.
- Drainage systems: Proper drainage can help keep water from collecting around your home’s foundation, especially on sloped properties.
- Trees and landscaping: Have dead, damaged or overhanging branches trimmed before storm season.
- Water alarms: Place water alarms near water heaters, appliances and other areas where leaks could occur.
- Automatic water shut-off systems: These systems can help limit damage from plumbing or appliance leaks by shutting off your home’s water supply when a leak is detected.
Regular maintenance and inspections are just as important as the products you use. Taking care of small issues now may help prevent bigger problems later.
3. Water Damage May Start Before You Notice It
After a major storm, check your home for leaks, standing water, wet flooring, damaged drywall or musty odors. Pay close attention to roofs, windows and doors, as well as basements and crawl spaces.
If water gets inside, act quickly. Moisture can remain trapped behind walls and under flooring, increasing the risk of mold and additional damage.
Prompt water damage restoration can help locate hidden moisture dry affected areas and prevent the damage from spreading.
4. Know Who to Call Before You Need Help
Storm damage can happen quickly, and during widespread weather events many homeowners may need help at the same time. Knowing who to call before a storm arrives can make the recovery process easier.
If your home experiences roof leaks, water intrusion, structural damage or damage caused by fallen trees, Rumsey Construction & Restoration can help with emergency mitigation, cleanup, restoration, and repairs.
Be prepared, not panicked. A few simple steps today can help protect your home and make recovery easier if severe weather strikes.
At Rumsey, our teams are available 24/7 to respond to storm, water and property damage emergencies throughout South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia. From initial mitigation through restoration, we’re here to help you get your home back to normal.
