Storm Damage Cleanup: What To Do After The Storm?

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: The power of a severe storm is intimidating and can pose a significant problem for homeowners. Between wind, lightning, and rain, storms can damage buildings in various problematic ways. Trusted restoration company SERVPRO discusses how to set an effective strategy for storm damage cleanup.

The power of a severe storm is intimidating and can pose a significant problem for homeowners. Between wind, lightning, and rain, storms can damage buildings in various problematic ways. This article will discuss how homeowners should proceed when beginning storm damage cleanup

Dealing with storm damage is vital to the home's appearance, but safety concerns are even more crucial. If storm damage is extensive enough, it can weaken the structural integrity of the building, increasing the chances of collapse. Therefore, contacting a storm damage restoration company is the wisest choice to ensure the home is entirely safe.

Assess the Damage

Whenever damage to a building occurs, the first step is to assess the area and determine the extent. Depending on the storm's intensity, it may have caused different types of damage, so be sure to check the entire home thoroughly, from the attic to the basement. Water leaks are a telltale sign of damage, but structural damage can occur without it.

The roof is the most vital area to check during this inspection, as storm damage can weaken the structure and increase the risk of collapse. Additionally, water can pool on the roof, adding to the already significant weight. If the roof is buckling, the safest option is to exit the home and contact a water damage restoration company.

After checking the roof, homeowners should carefully inspect the rest of the home to find signs of water damage, including:

• Black, brown, or yellow stains on ceilings
• Bubbling wallpaper or warping drywall
• Musty, damp smells

This damage can occur anywhere and worsen over time, so a careful inspection can save homeowners stress and money in the future.

Take Photos

While dealing with storm damage is chaotic, it's vital to document the damage closely. Although standard homeowner's insurance does not usually cover natural disasters, homeowners with flood insurance can receive compensation for the damage to their property. Taking clear photos of the entire building will simplify the claim process and maximize returns.

Dry the Area

After documenting the damage, the next step in storm damage repair is to dry the area. While most construction materials can withstand brief contact with water, very few hold up against prolonged exposure to moisture. Wood is a particularly porous material and will eventually absorb any water on the surface.

Rotting wood causes a significant safety hazard to residents in the home, so preventing this should be a top priority. While homeowners may still need a damage restoration company to address the issue, carefully drying the area can minimize the damage.

The best way to dry the area after a flood is to use towels to soak up as much water as possible. Then, homeowners can open windows and turn on fans to increase airflow, which will speed up the evaporation of the water. Once you complete these steps, it's time to call a water damage restoration company for repairs.

Get Storm Damage Cleanup Services in Texas

Dealing with storm damage is a scary and frustrating experience for many homeowners, but restoration companies can help. For residents of Coppell, TX, SERVPRO is an excellent option for storm damage cleanup, mold removal, and fire damage restoration. With a team of experienced restoration contractors, SERVPRO can simplify any restoration project.

SERVPRO strives to provide transparent and affordable prices to every client. With competitive pricing and stunning results, SERVPRO is the best choice for restoration services in Texas.

Contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison at (972) 233-8400 to discuss your situation and schedule storm damage cleanup today.