When it comes to living in the Midwest, we all know that the weather can be very unpredictable. The question of whether or not your home/business will suffer from storm damage is, unfortunately, a lot more about when not if. However, when it comes to summer storms, there are a few things you can do to help minimize the potential risk. Here are a few ways you can help your property be prepared for whatever Mother Nature decides to throw your way this summer.
Preparing for Unpredictable Summer Storms
Clean Gutters
Even though it may not seem like much, your gutter system goes hand-in-hand with your roof when severe storms hits. Ensuring that your gutters are clean and free of debris will help rainwater successfully flow away from your foundation. If your gutters are full of debris when a storm hits, the risk of water damage greatly increases. Heavy rainfall paired with a compromised gutter system can cause water damage to your attic, basement, and foundation.
Here are a few ways you can tell if your gutters are clogged:
- Overflowing gutters during a storm
- Gutters dripping at the seams during a storm
- Standing water in your lawn or near the foundation of your home or business
- Interior leaks inside the property
Check Trees and Landscaping
Much like checking your gutters for debris, you will want to assess your landscaping for any tree limbs that could cause an issue if high winds pick up. You will want to check your trees for any dead or dying limbs that could be easily broken during a summer storm, especially if they are close to your roof. Dead branches will show a variety of symptoms, making it easy to see what should be cut down.
Ensuring that your yard is free of any loose tree limbs will help protect your roof, siding, and gutters from damage during a severe storm. High winds can easily pick up dead portions of a tree and send them into your home or sliding across your rooftop. When tree branches scrape against your roof, it can strip off the crucial layer of granules, which could create future damage over time.
My property has storm damage, now what?
If your property has fallen victim to storm damage, McKinnis is here to help! Our mission is to get your home or business back to its original state as soon as possible. If you need emergency services, call 402-426-2644 as we offer temporary solutions if part of the shingles blow-off or you need to board-up any windows on the property.
For any non-emergency storm damage concerns contact us for a consultation to see what type of damage has occurred. We pride ourselves on being storm damage experts assisting you through the insurance claims process each step of the way.
Call Us Today
If you are in need of roofing, windows, siding or gutter work, please contact us today and set up an appointment. McKinnis is safely serving the Blair, Omaha, and Lincoln areas, and we would be happy to help you with your next home exterior project!