3 Ways to Prevent Wind Damage Due to Spring Storms

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

Spring storms, bringing the potential for severe thunderstorms, strong winds, and even tornadoes, have the ability to cause damage to homes. Specifically, strong wind can cause trees to break and damaged shingles, which can compromise the safety of your home. Wind strength varies from calm to hurricane-force depending on the storm. According to FEMA, strong winds most commonly impact roofs, doors, windows, and garages. Damage to any of those four areas of the home can potentially affect the structure of your home, requiring major repair. Before even hearing news that a severe storm carrying strong winds is on its way, there are several steps that you can take in order to protect your home from serious wind damage.

Maintain Landscape and Trees

First, pay close attention to any trees that surround your home, as wind can cause tree branches to break off or the entire tree to fall, thus risking damage to your home if trees are located close enough. Also, be mindful not to over-water trees, as over-watering often results in shallow, weak root systems, facilitating the possibility of trees falling during gusty winds. In addition, objects such as patio furniture, grills, or other backyard items can become projectiles during strong wind, which can damage your home if they are not anchored down or stored in a safe place, such as a shed.

Inspect the Roof

Because they are not in our usual line of sight, sometimes we are not aware of the condition of our roofs or shingles until serious damage has been inflicted upon them. In order to prevent unexpected, serious roof damage, survey the roof at least twice per year. Watch for loose or missing shingles and water damage in the attic, as both can be signs of damage. Hiring a roofing professional to inspect your roof may also help in spotting underlying issues that can save your roof from further destruction during strong wind. Finally, if possible, it may be beneficial to invest in weather-resistant shingles the next time that they need to be replaced.

Reinforce Windows and Doors

Utilizing storm shutters on windows and doors can help protect them from flying debris caused by strong winds. Storm shutters can be purchased but nailing plywood to windows and doors can also make for effective storm shutters. Lastly, garages cannot be forgotten. If particularly strong wind is expected, garage door bracing kits can be purchased, which will help keep the garage door in place during the storm.