Homeowners in Colorado should know what to do after storm damage. This guide will walk you through the necessary actions to take, including some tips on how you can prepare for future storms.
Colorado is no stranger to severe weather, including thunderstorms, hailstorms, tornadoes, and blizzards.
While these weather events can be exciting to watch from afar, they can also leave behind significant damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure.
In the aftermath of a storm, it can be overwhelming to figure out what to do next. Here’s the step-by-step guide on how you can get started:
What to do after storm damage
- Step 1: Ensure Your Safety
Before you begin to assess the damage, make sure you and your loved ones are safe.
If there are any downed power lines or other hazards, stay away and call for emergency assistance.
If you smell gas, evacuate the area immediately and call the gas company. - Step 2: Document the Damage
After ensuring your safety, make sure to document the damage.
Take photos and videos of any visible damage to your property. These visual records will be helpful when you file an insurance claim. - Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Company
Next, contact your insurance company to report the damage.
Provide them with the documentation you gathered.The sooner you report the damage, the faster the insurance company can begin processing your claim. - Step 4: Mitigate Further Damage
After reporting the damage to your insurance company, take steps to mitigate further damage.
Cover any holes in the roof or walls with tarps or plywood to prevent water from getting inside. If you have broken windows, cover them with plastic sheeting.
By preventing further damage, you may be able to reduce the overall cost of storm damage roof repair. - Step 5: Hire a Professional Roofing Company
While it may be tempting to try to fix the damage yourself, it’s usually best to hire a professional roofing company as they will know exactly what to do after storm damage.
A professional company will have the equipment and expertise necessary to repair your property safely and efficiently.
They will also have experience working with insurance companies and can help you navigate the claims process. - Step 6: Check for Water Damage
After a storm, it’s common for water to get into your home or business. Even if you don’t see any visible water damage, it’s crucial to check for hidden damage.
Look for water stains on the ceiling or walls, which could indicate a leak in the roof or pipes. Check for dampness or mold growth in the basement or crawlspace.
If you suspect water damage, address it immediately to prevent further damage and health hazards. - Step 7: Check for Structural Damage
Severe storms can cause structural damage to your property, including damage to the foundation, walls, and roof.
It’s essential to check for any signs of structural damage, such as cracks in the foundation or walls, leaning walls, or sagging roofs.
If you indeed notice any structural damage, have it assessed by a professional right away before it can put you and your family’s safety at risk. - Step 8: Remove Debris
After a storm, there may be debris on your property, including fallen trees, branches, and other items.
That’s why it’s essential to remove this debris promptly to prevent it from causing further damage.
If you’re unable to remove the debris yourself, hire a professional to do it for you. - Step 9: Address Electrical Issues
If your property also experienced electrical damage during the storm, it’s essential to address it immediately.
But don’t attempt to fix electrical problems yourself; instead, hire a professional electrician to do the work.
Electrical problems can be dangerous and should be handled by a trained professional. - Step 10: Stay Informed
It’s essential to stay informed about any ongoing weather events that could cause additional damage.
Sign up for weather alerts in your area and keep an eye on the news for updates.
By staying informed, you can take steps to protect your property and stay safe during future storms.
Tips to prepare for future storms
Prevention is always better than cure, and the same applies to storm damage on roofs. Although you can’t completely eliminate the risk of damage, there are some steps you can take to minimize the risk and keep you and your loved ones safe.
- Regular Roof Inspections
Regular inspections can identify weak spots or damage to the roof before they become a major problem.
Hire a professional to inspect your roof at least once a year, or after any major storm. - Trim Overhanging Trees
Overhanging trees can cause damage to your roof during a storm. Trim any trees near your home to prevent branches from falling onto your roof. - Secure Loose Objects
Loose objects on your roof, such as satellite dishes, can become airborne during a storm and cause damage. Make sure all objects on your roof are secured properly. - Upgrade Your Roofing Materials
If your roof is old or made from outdated materials, it may be more vulnerable to storm damage.
Consider upgrading to more durable materials such as metal, tile, or impact-resistant shingles. - Clean Your Gutters
Clogged gutters can cause water to back up onto your roof, leading to water damage. Clean your gutters regularly to prevent this. - Reinforce Your Roof:
If you live in an area prone to severe storms, consider reinforcing your roof with hurricane straps or other reinforcements to help it withstand high winds. - Check Your Insurance Coverage
Make sure your homeowner’s insurance policy covers storm damage. If it doesn’t, consider upgrading your policy or adding additional coverage.
Endurance Is A Storm Damage Roof Repair Expert!
If your roof suffered from unexpected damage, call Endurance Roofing right away. Our team knows exactly what to do after storm damage. We respond quickly before your roof incurs additional problems due to moisture intrusion, pest infestation, and structural safety issues. We can also help you navigate the insurance claim process so you can get the coverage you need. Call us today to get a FREE quote!
