How to Prepare for a Summer Storm to Minimize Storm Damage
Storm damage is sometimes a fact of life in the Midwest. From sudden hail to high winds, the weather more than has its way with this region. In fact, according to the National Weather Service, Iowa alone suffered $1.82 million dollars in property damage thanks to hazardous weather in 2020—not to mention the $23.14 million in crop damage in the same year!
Damage costs aside, storm season is no reason to panic if you can prepare for the worst far ahead of time. Below, Haggerty Windows & Siding, your preferred Iowa roof repair pros, discusses a few ways that you can safeguard your home from anything that comes its way.
Keep Up With Maintenance
Your home is probably the biggest investment you’ve made in your entire life—and it’s also the one that has to put up with the most. That’s why it’s important that you keep up with its maintenance needs, both DIY and professional. You’ll save yourself cash in the long run, in addition to cutting down on your short-term storm-related stress.
But what does maintenance entail? That depends on your home and its unique specs, but a twice-yearly cleaning of your gutters is a great place to start. When your home’s moisture management system works properly, it will weather heavy rains without batting an eye.
Trim Back Your Trees and Shrubs
It’s not just rain and hail that summer storm season brings with it—say hello to wind! High winds can easily tear off loose or dead branches from nearby trees and shrubs, which can pose a huge hazard for your home’s roofing, siding, and even your windows. Proper pruning isn’t just for looks; it actively protects the health of your home, as it removes potential airborne projectiles before they even detach from the plant.
Tidy Up the Lawn
You probably already know to store your car in your garage when foul weather rolls in—but what about all the other stuff that sits unsecured outside of your home, like patio furniture and your childrens’ toys? In an ideal world, you’ll be able to put these away before a harsh storm, as they can prove just as damaging as wayward tree branches.
However, as we all know, ideal circumstances are hard to come by. Encourage your kids to put their toys away when they're done playing outside, and consider investing in lightweight patio furniture that can be easily moved in an emergency situation.
Haggerty Windows & Siding: Replacement Windows, Roof Repair, and More
When the worst of the Iowa weather comes knocking at your door, we’ll be there to help with our five-star roof repair, siding installation, and replacement window services. Reach our Urbandale office today at 515-953-6999.