Minimizing Storm Damage Potential To Your Tarpon Home

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

If you want a professional opinion about storm damage call SERVPRO of Tarpon at (727) 934-5555.

Residents of Tarpon know all too well that they can't control when and where a storm might strike. There are somethings you can do as a homeowner to lessen the effects of severe weather.

If you have trees that hang over your home, you need to ensure that these are trimmed of any dead or weak limbs. Disease in trees is a good sign that some heavy pruning should be done, and insect populations should be treated and eliminated.

During storm season, both in the fall and spring, there are a few different steps you can take to decrease the risk of storm damage becoming a reality. Many homeowners hesitate to have tree maintained or removed. It's messy, loud, and can be costly. It is a good alternative to having a tree fall on your home in the middle of a storm. If there are trees that are growing from your neighbor's property but over your home, you should talk to them about trimming the tree limbs that are on your side before doing so. SERVPRO of Tarpon has covered too many roofs with tarps because of tree damage.

Look around your property for objects that are heavy enough to withstand smaller breezes and gusts of wind, but might be light enough for stronger winds to move around or even pick up. Table-top umbrellas on your deck, lounge chairs, and garden tools can all pose problems in a strong enough wind. Lumber that has been stored up against your home for one reason or another, but unused for lack of time, should be moved to an indoor location such as a garage or shed. Storing these on the ground can harbor pests and kill your grass.

Storm doors and screened windows should be placed in their frames tightly, and latch closed, as well. Storm water seeping or  in from the wind forcing it up against the house can cause water damage. This leaves floors in entryways soft and spongy. The wall and floor under windows can also become soft, or even moldy, if they are not kept tightly closed or are not sealed well.
Storm damage can also happen on the patio. Screened porches may receive a great amount of blown-in moisture that can carry debris that is left behind when the rain evaporates. This debris can contain a silt that can eat at carpets and upholstery on your porch. Similar to flood damage but less invasive, this sediment should be cleaned up on a regular basis to protect your furnishings.

Even after all of these precautions a storm can damage your home. The final thing you can do to be prepared is to know where to turn for professional help restoring your home.

If you want a professional opinion about storm damage and how you can prevent it, call SERVPRO of Tarpon at (727) 934-5555. Open 24/7 and available to take your call every day of the year; we have your storm damage needs covered.