There are all sorts of natural disasters in the world each year, including extreme storms. Each of these can cause massive damage and disruptions to your life.
If you’re unlucky enough to suffer storm damage, you need to focus on taking the right steps to secure your safety and the safety of those in your household. You also need to take the right steps to minimize the potential damage to your property.
However, you may be surprised to learn that there’s a lot more that you need to do. Keep reading to learn some of the most important things to keep in mind following storm damage.
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Check Roof for Damages
Before you can begin repairs on the home, you should first check your roof for damages. These can include water stains, missing or warped shingles, damaged flashing, and other visible damage.
Additionally, check your attic for water intrusion from the storm. If there is visible water in the attic or other evidence of a potential leak, it may be necessary to contact a professional Roof Repair services right away.
Clean Mold Growth
After a storm, mold growth can set in quickly and, if left unchecked, can cause major structural damage to your home or property. It is essential to act quickly and thoroughly to prevent mold growth and damage from becoming an issue.
Items such as furniture, carpet, and items made of porous material can all hold moisture and start to breed mold if not properly removed and treated. Additionally, when painting, it is often advisable to use mold-resistant paint that can prevent any future growth.
Look Out for Electrical Hazards
It is essential to be aware of potential electrical hazards that may exist. Storms can cause damage to electrical wiring, which can lead to a dangerous situation, such as potential electrocution.
It is, therefore, essential to perform an electrical inspection of your property to identify and address any areas of concern before any repairs to the damaged structures begin. Potential signs of a problem may include sparking wires, flickering lights, and burning odors.
Be Mindful of Hazardous Chemicals
Depending on the type of storm, hazardous chemicals such as gas, oil, asbestos, and lead may be present that can cause serious health risks. It’s essential to use proper safety equipment, such as gloves, protective eyewear, and a dust mask, when starting the cleanup process.
Beforehand, test the air quality. Determine if hazardous materials have been released into the air. Assess nearby structures for damage and have an expert inspect your home for any exposed substances, including gas lines.
Remove Standing Water
One of the most important steps that should be taken is to remove standing water. Moisture can seep into porous materials, causing further damage to your home or business. Standing water can also be a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests.
Also, mold and other bacteria can proliferate in standing water, causing indoor air quality issues and potential health problems. It will also help you avoid water-borne diseases.
Deal With Storm Damage Right Away
Although a simple cleanup can help minimize storm damage to your home, it cannot negate the risk of long-term issues. Therefore, it is essential to have a comprehensive inspection of your home as soon as possible after a storm to ensure the safety and longevity of your home.
Don’t delay! Contact your local home inspector today for a thorough assessment.
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