Now that the summer season is here, you can expect a variety of storms and other extreme weather circumstances to arise at your location. In locations on the east coast and in the gulf, you have to prepare for tropical storms and for hurricanes, whereas in the midwest, you have to prepare for severe storms that may contain tornadoes. No matter the types of severe weather you may face, it is important that you prepare for necessary repairs to your home. Start repairing issues now though, before the severe weather hits, so that you do not have a bigger problem to worry about after the storm.
1. Inspect the Roof
The roof is one of the areas of the exterior of your home that receives the most damage after a severe weather system moves through. If in the Austin, Texas area search for Austin roof repair companies that you can trust to inspect your roof to determine if there are any repairs that need to be made to it. They can look for leaks or for missing shingles that should be patched sooner than later as a storm can cause more holes and missing pieces. They will also indicate to you if your roof is currently strong enough to hold up against the next big storm that blows through or if you need a replacement.
2. Clean Up the Gutters
If you are getting heavy rain during your extreme weather event, the gutters can help prevent the water from collecting on your roof and causing damage to your home. If you have not cleaned out your gutters yet this year, now is the time to do so. Be sure to remove any debris that is in them, including leaves, and check for holes. If you notice a significant number of holes in your gutters, it is probably time to purchase and install some replacements.
3. Change Out the Windows
It is important to replace your windows with those that are more modern and more weather-proof for any occasion. You can even install windows that are made to withstand storms or shutters that can help stop debris from entering your home by breaking your window. If you cannot afford to completely replace the windows right now, consider cutting out plywood of an appropriate size that you can place over your windows when you get a bad storm. This could even be a life-saving measure for you and your loved ones during the next storm.
4. Trim Back Trees
It is also important to perform landscaping around your home so that there are no tree branches or limbs that could cause damage to your home in severe weather. Make sure you cut away any branches that are able to reach a window or that lean over a shelter or a power line. If the branch were to fall on a power line, for instance, you run the risk of cutting off power to your entire neighborhood in a storm. Make sure you dispose of the branches properly after cutting them so that you still achieve the curb appeal you want.
5. Cover Outlets and Protect Wires
If lightning were to hit a power line, you could cause a fire. If water were to collect on a wire or were to enter a power outlet, you could also shock someone with electricity. For your outlets, invest in some protective covers for the exterior of your home that will easily prevent water from getting into them during bad weather. For your wires, you can contact your energy company for protection coverage that will cover the costs for any damage that may come to your power lines.
Final Thoughts
You have to prepare the exterior of your home for the summer in order to stay safe and to obtain the least damage possible. You can do that by getting rid of excessive tree branches and covering your outlets to start. Have someone inspect your roof and your windows as well to ensure that you are safe from leaks and from wind damage that may arise. Finally, make sure your gutters are clean so that you do not provide more damage to your roof which may come from standing water in the gutters.
