When severe storms are in the forecast, it’s important to take steps to protect your home and property from potential damage. Being proactive and preparing in advance can help minimize destruction from high winds, flooding, hail, lightning strikes, and other storm impacts. Follow these tips to help safeguard your house and belongings before turbulent weather arrives.
Stock Up on Essential Supplies
Gather important supplies you may need if the power goes out or if you are confined at home during a storm. This includes non-perishable food, water, batteries, flashlights, a manual can opener, a first aid kit, prescription medications, pet food, and other necessities. Make sure you have enough supplies for each member of your household to last at least three days.
Secure Outdoor Objects
Walk around your yard and bring any loose objects indoors or tie them down securely. This includes patio furniture, grills, potted plants, decorations, garbage cans, and anything else that could blow away or cause damage. Check for tree branches that look weak and prune them so they don’t break off in high winds.
Protect Windows and Doors
Windows are one of the most vulnerable parts of a home during storms. Install storm shutters or plywood over them to provide extra protection. Alternatively, you can use tape in a crisscross pattern to help prevent shards of glass if the windows break. Make sure exterior doors are securely closed and locked. Consider using water barriers or sandbags around exterior doors that are prone to flooding.
Clear Gutters and Downspouts
Remove debris from rain gutters so that water can drain properly. Clogged gutters can cause interior water damage during heavy storms. Ensure downspouts direct water several feet away from your home’s foundation.
Inspect and Clear Storm Drains
Clear leaves, dirt and other debris from storm drains near your property. Clogged drains can contribute to street flooding. Notify local authorities if there is a publicly owned drain in need of maintenance.
Check Your Roof
Replace any missing or damaged shingles to prevent costly leaks. Trim overhanging tree branches so they don’t break and damage the roof in high winds. Secure any loose tiles or shingles and inspect flashing around chimneys, vents, and fans.
Know How to Shut Off Utilities
Locate your main water valve, gas valve, and electrical circuit breakers so you can shut them off quickly if needed due to a leak or other damage. Only turn the power back on once electrical systems have been inspected after the storm passes. Contact utility companies for guidance.
Protect Important Documents
Place important documents like insurance policies, medical records, and financial statements in a secure, waterproof container. Have copies stored electronically or in a safety deposit box as added protection.
By taking these proactive measures before a major storm strikes, you can greatly improve the safety of your home and belongings. Pay attention to local weather alerts so you have as much advance notice as possible to implement storm preparations. And if the worst does happen and your property is damaged, speak to us today.
You can visit our office at: 200 Lake Morton Drive, Suite 300, Lakeland, FL 33801.
Call us today for a free consultation on (833) 941-7867.
Coming home to a flooded basement can be a nightmare. Water quickly causes damage, destroys belongings, promotes mold growth, and creates safety hazards if electrical systems get wet. Prompt action is required to start the water removal and drying process before permanent damage sets in. This article provides step-by-step instructions on what to do upon discovering a flooded basement, how to thoroughly dry it out afterward, and critical repair work to restore your basement after water damage.
Assess the Flooding Situation
Your first step is to identify and address any unsafe conditions. If the floodwaters reached any electrical outlets, circuits, or wiring, turn off the power at the main breaker before entering. Ensure the gas lines did not sustain damage. Watch for shifting or collapsing areas in the floors or walls indicating serious structural issues. If you have any concerns about safety, evacuate the home and call emergency services.
Next, stop the water source. Find where the floodwaters entered and stop additional flow. This may require sandbags, redirecting gutters, unclogging drains or sump pumps, or contacting the local authorities if public storm drains overflowed. Until the water ingress point is controlled, removal efforts will be hindered.
Remove Free-Standing Water
Use an electric submersible sump pump, gas-powered pump, or manual sump pump to start removing free-standing water. Position the pump’s discharge hose so water releases far from your home’s foundation, sloping downhill. If electricity is still unsafe to use, gas pumps provide strong pumping capacity to rapidly remove floodwaters. Use an extension cord if your flooded area is far from electrical outlets.
In severe flooding reaching several feet that overwhelms pumps, you may need to rent additional heavy-duty water removal equipment such as trailer-mounted diesel trash pumps from an equipment rental company. Call local water and fire damage restoration companies for assistance if DIY pumping proves inadequate.
Clear Out Damaged Possessions
Sadly, many items flooded in a basement will need disposal. Remove and throw out furniture, boxes, decorations, shelves, padding, toys, supplies, and anything else permeated by floodwaters. These soaked porous contents will fuel mold growth if left in place. However, you can likely salvage more valuable items later once the space fully dries out. For now, clear as much as possible to open up the area.
Clean Surfaces of Silt and Residue
Use hoses, shop vacuums, mops, and buckets to remove silt, mud, and dirt left behind by floodwaters. Clean from higher surfaces down. Pay extra attention around and underneath appliances, mechanical fixtures, pipes, wiring runs, ductwork, and framing where sediment easily hides. Removing muddy residue quickens the drying process. Wipe down walls with disinfecting cleaner.
Assist the Drying Process with Fans, Dehumidifiers and Heat
Open exterior-facing doors and windows to provide maximum airflow. Use large drum fans and blowers to vigorously circulate air, directing it into corners and areas shielded from natural airflow. The basement’s air needs to be completely changed over several times a day.
Dehumidifiers actively condense excessive water vapor from damp air. Continually drain the units so that condensed water does not reintroduce moisture. Position several mid-room and away from walls where humidity especially lingers.
If it’s safe to do so, restore central heating/air conditioning system operation. Run the air handler fan on continuous circulation to filter indoor air through the HVAC unit repeatedly. Route warm dry air into the basement if ductwork extends there. The heat aids evaporation. Depending on the season, portable space heaters may help raise temperatures.
Be patient for natural drying once excess water is gone. With airflow assistance, a previously flooded basement usually takes 2 to 4 weeks to dry, though residual dampness may linger for months requiring ongoing dehumidifier usage. You want wood framing moisture content below 15% before considering repairs or reinstalling drywall, flooring or possessions. Use a moisture meter to check progress.
Identify and Repair Structural Damage
Once drying sufficiently completes, shift your focus to identifying and repairing water-induced building damage. Look for bulging, buckling or cracked foundation walls. Check for soft spongy flooring, peeling paint, powdery drywall, warped wood framing, and any new gaps indicating shifting structure requiring support. While you can hope for the best, assume that the water has loosened adhesives, corroded fasteners, and weakened integrity that requires restoring for stability and functionality.
Most flood damage requires replacing saturated gypsum drywall and scrapping wood framing. Treat exposed masonry block walls with waterproofing paint. Lay new cement board to withstand moisture before re-drywalling. Consider closed-cell spray foam insulation that resists moisture and air infiltration better than fiberglass batting. Replace warped doors and window frames allowing water intrusion. Despite desires to repair items, flood damage often warrants new materials.
For flooring, remove soaked carpets, pads and cheap plywood subflooring which compact moisture and mold food. Replace with mold-inhibiting drycore panels before installing new vinyl plank, ceramic tile or laminate flooring and rugs. Reinstall original hardwood if restoration is viable but assess it carefully for underlying rot. Integrate sump pumps, French drains and grading for improved drainage, preventing repeat disasters.
Installing a flood prevention system can add further protection. Perimeter basement waterproofing seals exterior walls vulnerable to groundwater seepage. Interior drainage systems of trenches, pipes and sump pumps capture and eject subsurface liquid before flooding starts. Overhead sewer backflow valves prevent inbound surges from municipal drains. Such preventative measures provide security if you are located in flood zones.
Recovering a flooded basement requires prompt water removal followed by aggressive drying aided by fans and dehumidifiers. These DIY actions reduce permanent damage from lingering moisture. Unfortunately, most flooded basements need extensive structural repairs and material replacements due to contamination – don’t take shortcuts attempting to salvage framing and finishes after water intrusion.
Consider consulting professionals specializing in storm damage claims to properly inspect your unique situation and ensure repairs restore your basement to pre-flooding condition. With dedication to the drying process and proper restoration work, you can revive a flooded basement into a usable living space. Preventative measures like waterproofing and backflow valves also help avoid repeat disasters.
For help with repair estimates and insurance claims, visit Storm Damage at 200 Lake Morton Drive, Suite 300, Lakeland, FL 33801.
Or call us today for a free consultation on (833) 941-7867.
Storms that produce heavy winds, like hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe thunderstorms, can cause major property damage as winds rip off shingles, break windows, and destroy structures. But much of the destruction comes from wind-propelled debris crashing into buildings. Properly securing loose outdoor items before a windstorm can significantly reduce damage to your property.
Potential Windborne Debris Hazards
Many common objects can turn into dangerous projectiles in high winds. Anything sitting outside that is loose or weakly tied down poses a threat, including:
Lawn furniture like chairs, loungers, and picnic tables
Grills, propane tanks, and DIY equipment
Yard decorations and ornaments
Plant pots, flowerpots, and planter boxes
Tree branches and firewood stacks
Building supplies and leftover scrap material
Garbage cans, recycling bins, and dumpsters
Children’s play equipment like trampolines
Vehicles, boats, trailers, and covers/tarps over them
Strong winds can pick up even heavy items, hurling them large distances at high speeds. Getting struck by windborne debris is extremely dangerous to people and pets outside during windstorms. Indoors, these projectiles can smash windows, punch holes through walls, and wreak havoc once entering the building.
Securing Potential Hazards
Prevent wind damage and hazards by properly securing anything sitting loose outside well before a windstorm arrives. Consider bringing precious or valuable items inside a sturdy building to keep them from blowing away or slamming into structures. For objects left outside, follow these general guidelines:
Tie It Down
Use durable ropes, straps, or cables firmly anchored into the ground or attached to fixed structures to tie down lighter items. Things like grills, propane tanks, lawn chairs, flowerpots, and garbage/recycling bins can usually be secured this way. Make sure tie-downs won’t loosen and provide enough slack for some movement during intense gusts.
Weigh It Down
Heavier objects that can’t easily be brought inside may still shift, blow over, or slide along the ground during powerful winds. Weigh them down by placing sandbags, cinderblocks, or other extremely heavy items on or around them. Filling large planters, pots, and garbage bins with soil, rocks, or cement will make them harder to tip over or drag.
Take Down Removeable Items
For outdoor structures meant to be dismantled, like pool covers, small sheds/enclosures, temporary event tents, and screened patio systems, attempt to fully take them down if a windstorm is approaching. Removing them eliminates the chance they will be ripped apart, protecting surrounding buildings.
Clear the Yard
Do a thorough sweep for any loose debris already scattered around the yard. Place rocks, lawn decorations, tools, trash cans, children’s toys, bicycles, and anything not secured indoors or in a locked shed or garage. Even small pieces become dangerous projectiles when blown by wind.
Inspect Trees and Vegetation
Examine trees and bushes to identify dead branches or any vegetation needing pruning before extreme weather arrives. Remove unhealthy limbs that may easily snap or uproot. Also, check for loose fence planks or pickets that need repair.
Protect Windows
Install storm shutters or durable plywood coverings over all windows on structures to defend against windborne debris and flying glass shards if window glass breaks during high winds. Leave window protections up until the threat passes.
Having an emergency response plan ready to enact can ensure you properly secure hazards when high-velocity winds threaten. Protect people, pets, and property by limiting potential windborne debris before storms approach.
Get Help Assessing Storm Damage
If intense winds cause damage despite preventative efforts, contact a licensed professional service specializing in insurance claims and repair estimates, like Storm Damage. We can properly evaluate destruction and work with your insurance company, supporting fair compensation to restore your property. With an expert assessment in hand, you can feel confident reconstruction will return your home or business back to pre-storm conditions.
Visit us at 200 Lake Morton Drive, Suite 300, Lakeland, FL 33801.
Call us today for a free consultation on (833) 941-7867.
Owning a vacation home can be a wonderful way to enjoy getaways with family and friends. However, these properties can be vulnerable to damage from storms, which requires preparation and planning to properly address. This article provides tips on handling storm damage in a vacation home.
Before the Storm – Prevention and Preparation
Taking preventative measures before storm season starts can minimize potential damage. Here are some tips:
Inspect the roof, windows, doors, siding, and drainage systems. Make any needed repairs to strengthen weak spots susceptible to wind and water damage.
Trim overhanging trees and bushes to reduce falling debris.
Make sure gutters and downspouts are cleared of debris so that rain can flow freely.
Install storm shutters or plywood over windows and glass doors.
Remove loose items from the exterior like patio furniture, grills, and decorative features. Store them in a secure area like a garage or shed.
Turn off propane tanks and other gas lines.
Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies like a battery-operated radio, flashlight, batteries, first aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable food, and critical medications.
Having an emergency plan in place can also minimize headaches if a storm strikes. Know how to safely evacuate the home and identify an alternate place to stay if needed. Make sure your insurance coverage is adequate and up to date.
Upon Arrival – Initial Damage Assessment
If a storm impacts your vacation home while you are away, carefully survey the property before entering. Look for:
Downed power lines – never drive over or touch live wires. Contact the utility company.
External damage like missing roof shingles/tiles, cracked windows, detached siding. Note obvious problem areas.
Leaning or uprooted trees that may fall. Have a professional remove them.
Flooding around the exterior and in the basement or crawl space if applicable. Don’t enter flooded areas.
Take photos and videos of all damage to share with your insurance company. Do not make permanent repairs yet or disturb affected areas.
Safety First – Entering a Damaged Home
Use extreme caution upon entering a damaged vacation home, as hazards may exist. Follow these safety tips:
Wear sturdy shoes and work gloves to avoid injury from debris.
Check for structural damage and refrain from entering if the building seems unstable.
Watch for broken glass around windows and doors.
Do not turn on the main electrical breaker if water damage is present; electrical wiring may be compromised.
Avoid using open flames as gas lines may be disrupted.
Discard perishable foods that may have spoiled after an extended power loss.
Run a generator outdoors only after storm winds have died down. Ensure proper ventilation.
Use a flashlight instead of candles.
Document all damage inside with photos/video prior to cleanup for insurance claims. Contact a qualified contractor if major repairs appear necessary.
Cleanup and Repairs
Once the vacation home is safe to access, focus on these cleanup steps:
Remove all wet items and debris like broken branches and damaged furniture from the interior.
If there is flooding, remove standing water with a pump or buckets then remove soaked carpeting, padding, baseboards and insulation.
Open windows and doors to air out the home and prevent mold growth. Use dehumidifiers, fans, and air conditioning to remove lingering dampness.
Take steps to prevent further water damage like covering broken windows. Place buckets under dripping ceilings or leaking pipes.
Discard all perishable foods, cosmetics, and medicines that may have been compromised.
Inspect utilities closely before turning anything back on:
Have an electrician evaluate the electrical system and ensure no lines are submerged in water before restoring power.
Check the gas lines leading to appliances like the water heater and stove. Contact the gas company if leaks are detected before resetting.
Examine walls and floors around plumbing for moisture damage. Run faucets to check for pipe breaks.
Prioritize repairs starting with the roof and exterior to stop additional rain from entering. Be prepared to possibly replace water-damaged materials like drywall and insulation. Work with reputable local contractors if major repairs like roofing and siding work are beyond your skill level.
Insurance Claims
Contact your insurance agent as soon as possible after storm damage occurs. Provide documentation like:
Photos and video of the damage
List of damaged items
Repair estimates
Receipts for cleanup, repairs, or replacement purchases
Understand your vacation home insurance policy and what storm damage is covered. Reimbursement often depends on taking proper preventative measures like installing storm shutters. Your claim may be denied if the proper steps were not taken prior to the storm.
Most policies have a deductible amount you will pay out of pocket before coverage kicks in. Get multiple bids for big-ticket repairs, but do not start non-emergency work until approved as the insurance company may want to send an adjuster. Keep detailed records throughout the claims process.
Seek Legal Counsel if Needed
If your vacation home suffered extensive damage and your home insurance provider is refusing to pay out, consider contacting an attorney. For example, while most home insurance policies will cover damage caused by wind, you may find there are specific deductibles for hurricane damage. Flood damage is also not often included in a homeowner’s insurance policy though water damage can be as long as the wind is somehow linked to it.
Insurance policies are often designed to be ambiguous, and it can also be difficult for a homeowner to assess what caused the damage to their home, especially in the days following a hurricane or other tropical storm. Many homeowners end up paying for the restoration themselves due to not understanding what they can claim but this is not always the right decision.
Because of how confusing homeowner’s insurance policies can be, it could be worth seeking legal advice. An attorney can help you to understand the legalese included in your home insurance policy, which should help you with dealing with your policy provider and achieving a fair settlement amount for the damage caused.
If you think we can assist you, call into our office at 200 Lake Morton Drive, Suite 300, Lakeland, FL 33801.
Or call us for a free consultation on (833) 941-7867.
Storms can cause major damage to homes, especially when high winds, heavy rain, hail, or snow accumulation stress structures beyond their limits. The worse the storm, the more significant the damage is likely to be. While storm damage depends on many factors, there are several key areas of homes that tend to be impacted most frequently. Here are five common areas of storm damage in homes. If you live in an area where severe storms are frequent, it is sensible to pay particular attention to these areas.
Roofing
Roofs often sustain the most direct damage during storms. High winds can tear off shingles or shake tiles, allowing water to seep in. Large hail can dent and puncture roofing materials. Heavy snow can collapse roofs if they are not designed to handle the extra weight. Ice dams can also form along roof edges as snow melts, allowing water to back up under shingles. Storm damage to roofs requires quick repairs to prevent further destruction from water leaks. Call your insurance company as soon as you notice any storm damage, so they can send an assessor out and organize repairs.
Windows
Strong winds can break through window glass during storms, while debris blown around can also shatter windows. Leaking water can damage window frames and sills as well. Cracked or broken windows allow the elements inside, causing additional interior damage. Checking windows for any signs of damage or leaks is important after storms.
Siding
Vinyl, wood, brick or other siding materials can be damaged by high winds, debris, or heavy snow leaning on walls. Loose siding can detach and blow away. Cracks or dents in siding appear over time after impact damage. Paint and caulking may need replacing if damaged by water. Proper storm shutters can help minimize damage to exterior siding.
Trees
Falling trees or branches are a major threat during storms, capable of crashing into homes and causing severe damage. Winds uproot trees while saturated soils that can’t support the weight of top-heavy trees lead to collapse. Trees should be professionally inspected after storms to identify any dangers of collapse or dropping limbs. Damaged trees may need to be removed entirely.
Foundations
The foundations that support homes can become compromised by flooding, saturation of soils, or debris slamming into the structure. Cracks in foundations appear over time after initial damage. Porches, steps, and walkways settling at odd angles indicate foundational problems. Inspections identify any underlying supports or piers needing reinforcement after storms.
Storms can quickly cause destruction, but being aware of the most vulnerable areas of a home allows a quick response when damage occurs. Thoroughly inspecting for any storm impacts and making necessary repairs helps minimize the effects and restores the structural integrity of the home. Proper preparation and preventative measures also help reduce the level of damage suffered during extreme weather events.
If you have suffered property damage, contact our team today. We have claims consultants, attorneys, and contractors ready to help you with your insurance claim.
Visit our office at 200 Lake Morton Drive, Suite 300, Lakeland, FL 33801.
Call us today for a free consultation on (833) 941-7867.