Archived Storm Damage Blog Posts
Weathering the Storm: Protecting Yourself and Your Property
11/21/2024 (Permalink)
Straight-line winds, often associated with severe thunderstorms, can pack a powerful punch. These winds can reach speeds of up to 150 mph, capable of causing significant damage to homes and businesses. SERVPRO® recommends to take precautions.
Stay Safe During a Severe Thunderstorm:
- Seek Shelter Immediately: If a severe thunderstorm warning is issued, move to a basement or interior room on the lowest floor. Stay away from windows and doors.
- Avoid Electrical Appliances: Unplug electronic devices to protect them from power surges.
- Be Aware of Falling Debris: Strong winds can uproot trees and cause other debris to fly. Stay away from windows and avoid walking outside during the storm.
After the Storm: Restoring Your Property
If your home or business has been damaged by a storm, SERVPRO of North Elkhart County is ready to help. Our experienced team can assess the damage and develop a comprehensive restoration plan.
Our Storm Damage Restoration Services:
- Water Damage Restoration: We can remove water from flooded areas and prevent mold growth.
- Wind and Hail Damage Repair: We can repair roof damage, broken windows, and other structural damage.
- Fire Damage Restoration: If a storm causes a fire, we can clean up soot, smoke, and water damage.
Don't let storm damage disrupt your life. Contact SERVPRO of North Elkhart County at 574-343-1397 to schedule a free inspection.
When Storms hit Elkhart County, Call SERVPRO of North Elkhart
3/30/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO® of North Elkhart County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.
Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit Elkhart, Bristol, Middlebury, Simonton Lake, Bonneyville Mills and surrounding North Elkhart areas, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams (http://www.SERVPROnorthelkhartcounty.com/disaster-recovery) that are strategically located throughout the United States.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today
(574) 343-1397
Spring is right around the corner, is you Elkhart county family and home prepared?
3/30/2024 (Permalink)
Elkhart residents know with spring right around the corner that also means the chance of severe weather. Thunderstorms, lightening, tornadoes heavy rain and flooding are always something to be prepared for. We all need to remember to have a safety plan and emergency kits on hand. Emergency kits should contain many items including these:
- A battery operated flashlight with extra batteries
- A battery operated weather radio with extra batteries
- An emergency plan for all types of weather, including evacuation plans, shelter area plans, and safe meeting spot that all family members know.
- A list of important information phone numbers of family, friends and neighbors. Any medical information that may be useful, insurance, allergies, medications, and medical conditions that may require special care.
- A 3-5 day supply of bottled water and nonperishable food. If you have pets don't forget a 3-5 day supply of water and food for them as well.
- Blankets or sleeping bags
A first aid kit according to the American Red Cross should include:
- assortment of adhesive bandages
- sterile gauze pads in assorted sizes
- absorbent compress dressings
- aspirin packets (81 mg each)
- first aid instruction booklet
It is always a good idea to keep an emergency kit in you vehicle.
SERVPRO of North Elkhart County's highly trained and caring team is available 24 hours a day to assist you.
Call us at 574-343-1397
Safety First When It Sever Weather Comes!
6/28/2022 (Permalink)
Severe weather like hail, thunderstorms, and tornadoes can spell disaster for your home or business. If your building has been damaged by severe weather, it’s important to act quickly to repair the damage and keep yourself, your family, and your employees safe. If your home/business has been damaged in a storm, follow these steps to keep safe:
- Evacuate severely damaged areas of the house.
- Check for injuries and seek medical assistance if needed.
- Keep children and pets away from any damaged areas.
- Use caution when inspecting damage: wear gloves and heavy shoes, and stay away from downed power lines and other hazards.
- Monitor a battery-powered radio for emergency information.
- Call your insurance company to see if you are covered.
- Contact us to begin the cleanup process
Once you give us a call, we will send a team to assess the damage and sart the repair process. Even if the damage appears minor, like shingles that are torn or bent, it can cause serious damage over time.
Be Prepared For Storms With These Following Items In Your Car
6/7/2022 (Permalink)
Every vehicle should be prepared for a break down or a weather related emergency.
Supplies important for an emergency kit in your vehicle:
- First aid kit or supplies
- Car escape tool (seatbelt cutter and window breaker)
- Extra gloves, socks, hats
- Seasonal supplies ( ice scrapper, small shovel, umbrella, rain gear etc.)
Always drive safely, avoid driving through high or rushing water. Be sure to share the road bicyclists, motorcyclists, joggers and children may be out more frequently. Wild animals are coming out of hibernation looking for food. Damp and wet roads can be very slippery do to water mixing with the oil on the roadways.
SERVPRO of North Elkhart County hopes everyone has a safe and happy spring!
SERVPRO of North Elkhart County's highly trained and caring team is available 24 hours a day to assist you.
Call us at 574-343-1397
SERVPRO Tips For Storms
6/2/2022 (Permalink)
- There’s a strong possibility that the lights could go out during storm; here are some tips to keep you safe while playing in the rain.
- Stay inside during thunderstorms, lightening and wind can damage power lines and trees.
- Remind grown-ups to stay away from downed power lines, especially when they are outside cleaning up after a storm.
- Use flashlights instead of candles they are a lot safer.
- Try not to open the refrigerator or freezer unless you have to; it could take a few days for power to be restored.
- Ask grown-ups to unplug appliances, this will prevent damage when the power comes on.
And if your home or business is ever affected by a storm remember to call SERVPRO of North Elkhart County 574-343-1397
Snowstorms Can Be More Dangerous Than You Think
2/12/2022 (Permalink)
A winter storm can range freezing rain and ice to moderate snowfall over a few hours, to a blizzard that lasts for several days.
A winter storm occurs when there is significant precipitation and the temperature is low enough that precipitation forms as sleet or snow, or when rain turns to ice. A winter storm can range freezing rain and ice to moderate snowfall over a few hours, to a blizzard that lasts for several days.
Winter storms can cause power outages that last for days. They can make roads and walk ways extremely dangerous, impassable, and deaths could occur. Follow these steps to prepare your home in case of a winter storm:
- Make sure your home is well insulated and that you have weather-stripping around your doors and window sills to keep the warm air inside.
- Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector.
- Keep fire extinguishers on hand and make sure everyone in the home knows how to use them.
- Learn how to shut off water valves in case a pipe burst.
- If you have a wood burning fireplace, consider storing wood to keep you warm if the winter storm knocks out your heat. Also make sure you have your chimney cleaned and inspected every year.
*Have at least one of the following heat sources in case the power goes out:
-Extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm winter coats;
-Fireplace or wood-burning stove with plenty of dry firewood, or a gas long fireplace.
You Can Never Be Under Prepared For Winter Storms
2/7/2022 (Permalink)
Planning and preparing can help you manage the impact of a winter storm and keep you and your family safe.
Winter storms can bring freezing rain, ice, snow, high winds, or a combination of these conditions. Extreme winter weather can immobilize an entire region. Ice and heavy snowfall can knock out heat, power, and communication services. A winter storm occurs when there is significant precipitation and the temperature is low enough that precipitation forms as sleet or snow, or when rain turns to ice.
A winter storm can range from freezing rain and ice, to moderate snowfall over a few hours to a blizzard that last for several days, or be a combination of several winter weather conditions.
Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures. Planning and preparing can help you manage the impact of a winter storm and keep you and your family safe. A sustained power outage can have a significant impact on people who require electricity to power medical equipment, so make sure that you have a pan to take care of yourself and your family during an outage.
Winter Storms Are Right Around The Corner... Let's Be Prepared!
1/6/2022 (Permalink)
A winter storm can range freezing rain and ice to moderate snowfall over a few hours, to a blizzard that lasts for several days.
Snowstorms & Extreme Cold
A winter storm occurs when there is significant precipitation and the temperature is low enough that precipitation forms as sleet or snow, or when rain turns to ice. A winter storm can range freezing rain and ice to moderate snowfall over a few hours, to a blizzard that lasts for several days.
Winter storms can cause power outages that last for days. They can make roads and walk ways extremely dangerous, impassable, and deaths could occur. Follow these steps to prepare your home in case of a winter storm:
- Make sure your home is well insulated and that you have weather stripping around your doors and window sills to keep the warm air inside.
- Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector.
- Keep fire extinguishers on hand and make sure everyone in the home knows how to use them.
- Learn how to shut off water valves in case a pipe burst.
- If you have a wood burning fireplace, consider storing wood to keep you warm if the winter storm knocks out your heat. Also make sure you have your chimney cleaned and inspected every year.
*Have at least one of the following heat sources in case the power goes out:
-Extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm winter coats;
-Fireplace or wood-burning stove with plenty of dry firewood, or a gas long fireplace.
Be Prepared For Winter Storms - Check Out The List Below!
12/30/2021 (Permalink)
Being extra prepared when winter storms arrive is the only way to be prepared!
How to Prepare for a Winter Storm
Prepare now in case a winter storm hits and you are home for several days without power and heat.
• Prepare by gathering emergency supplies, making a family plan, and discussing emergency notifications and expectations with your workplace and/or schools.
• Install battery-powered or battery back-up carbon monoxide detectors.
• If you have access to an OUTSIDE generator, have an electric cord long enough to keep the generator at least 20 feet from any door, window, or vent.
• Make specific plans for how you will avoid driving.
Be alert to changing weather conditions using local alerts, radio, and other news sources for information and instructions. Stay indoors and avoid driving as much as possible.
• If the power goes out, close off unused rooms to consolidate and retain heat.
• Wear layered clothing and use blankets or sleeping bags to stay warm.
• Bring pets inside.
• NEVER use generators, outdoor heating or cooking equipment, such as a grill, camp stove, or a gasoline or propane heater, indoors.
• NEVER heat a home with a stove.
• If driving is absolutely necessary, keep disaster supplies in your vehicle, make sure your vehicle is properly equipped, and use extra precaution on the roads.
• Limit your time outdoors. If you are outside, protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by wearing several layers of warm, loose-fitting, light-weight clothing.
Spring & Summer Storms - How To Prepare
6/28/2021 (Permalink)
Spring storms can cause a number of issues in your home, such as fallen tree branches and water damage. By preparing for the storms early, you can minimize the damage to your property. - Invest in flood insurance
* If a storm gets our of hand and leads to flooding in your home, flood insurance will cover the cost of your water damage repairs.
- Prune your trees
* Dead or rotting tree branches are susceptible to falling during storms; it is best to cut these off before so that they do not cause any damage to the roof, siding, windows, or even the car(s). That is also a great way of protecting your family as well. Proper tree pruning can also improve the way the trees bloom in the heart of spring and summer.
- Use surge protectors for electronic devices
* Replace your your standard power strips with surge protectors so that your electronics are protected in the middle of a storm. If lightening strikes your roof or a flood occurs in your house, surge protectors will give you the best possible chance of preserving your computer, television, and game consoles. Consider unplugging any electronics you are not using so they do not have live electrical currents in the middle of a storm.
- Prepare an emergency kit
* If you have an emergency kit for winter with non-perishable food, water, and first aid supplies. Keep this kit for the spring as well. Make sure it includes candles, matches, flashlights, batteries, and anything else you can think of that will be needed during a power outage.
Are You Ready & Protected From Severe Summer Storms?
6/2/2021 (Permalink)
Since 1980, the U.S. has sustained nearly 200 weather-related disasters in which overall financial damages reached or exceeded $1 billion.
While we are blessed to live in a part of the U.S. people flock to, we also are unusually vulnerable to dangerous summer weather in the form of tornadoes, hail storms, wind storms, lightning strikes, and more.
As you think about summer storms, ask yourself these 3 key questions:
- What can I do—that is in my control right now—to protect my home, auto, boat, and general property from severe summer-storm damage?
- What insurance coverage do I need to protect myself financially if anything I own is damaged by summer storms?
- What should I do if my home, auto, boat, or other property sustain any damage?
These things are in your control, and a smart way to typically minimize the damage from summer storms:
- Hire professionals to inspect your roof, to make sure it is fully waterproof and that rain runs off it properly.
- Inspect and clean gutters and downspouts.
- Install shutters to protect windows from high winds and hail (or, as a backup, use plywood covers).
- Install a sump pump in your basement.
- Make sure trees—especially those near your house—are properly trimmed.
- If possible, park your car, RV, motorcycle, and boat in a garage or otherwise under cover.
- Place a hail-resistant cover over your vehicles and boat.
- Complete a printed and/or video home inventory.
- Make sure everyone in your family knows the safest evacuation routes.
- Survey your property for flood potential, and make sure you have flood and sewage backup coverage.
Make sure you have the right insurance and know what is and is not covered. Understand that:
* Most homeowners’ insurance doesn’t cover flooding. This means you will need to get a separate policy for any damages caused by waters rising out of the ground or rivers, and by other bodies of water overflowing their banks.
* Most homeowners’ insurance does cover damage to your property resulting from hail, wind, and lightning.
* You must have comprehensive insurance coverage on your car to recover financial losses resulting from hail, flood, or damage from falling trees or limbs.
We hope you never have to deal with damage to your home, car, boat, or other property caused by summer storms. But here’s what to do if it occurs:
- Document—as specifically and rigorously as possible—the time, date, and severity of the storm. Do this using photographic and written documentation.
- Immediately call your insurance company.
- Work only with licensed contractors to repair damage.
Ask The Experts: What are some best practices to get ready for winter storms?
2/17/2021 (Permalink)
Prepare now in case a winter storm hits and you are home for several days without power and heat.
• Prepare by gathering emergency supplies, making a family plan, and discussing emergency notifications and expectations with your workplace and/or schools.
• Install battery-powered or battery back-up carbon monoxide detectors.
• If you have access to an OUTSIDE generator, have an electric cord long enough to keep the generator at least 20 feet from any door, window, or vent.
• Make specific plans for how you will avoid driving.
Be alert to changing weather conditions using local alerts, radio, and other news sources for information and instructions. Stay indoors and avoid driving as much as possible.
• If the power goes out, close off unused rooms to consolidate and retain heat.
• Wear layered clothing and use blankets or sleeping bags to stay warm.
• Bring pets inside.
• NEVER use generators, outdoor heating or cooking equipment, such as a grill, camp stove, or a gasoline or propane heater, indoors.
• NEVER heat a home with a stove.
• If driving is absolutely necessary, keep disaster supplies in your vehicle, make sure your vehicle is properly equipped, and use extra precaution on the roads.
• Limit your time outdoors. If you are outside, protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by wearing several layers of warm, loose-fitting, light-weight clothing.
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Indiana Winters USUALLY = Snowmageddon!
2/17/2021 (Permalink)
Winter storms can bring freezing rain, ice, snow, high winds, or a combination of these conditions. Extreme winter weather can immobilize an entire region. Ice and heavy snowfall can knock out heat, power, and communication services. A winter storm occurs when there is significant precipitation and the temperature is low enough that precipitation forms as sleet or snow, or when rain turns to ice.
A winter storm can range from freezing rain and ice, to moderate snowfall over a few hours to a blizzard that last for several days, or be a combination of several winter weather conditions. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures. Planning and preparing can help you manage the impact of a winter storm and keep you and your family safe. A sustained power outage can have a significant impact on people who require electricity to power medical equipment, so make sure that you have a pan to take care of yourself and your family during an outage.
Be Prepared! Heavy Snowfall Can Damage Your Roof
12/9/2020 (Permalink)
With the colder months of the season beginning to set in, Elkhart County residents prepare for what could always potentially be a difficult winter. Heavier snowfalls threaten homes, especially when several days of hard snows compact onto roofs throughout the area without temperatures rising enough to melt or getting cold enough to freeze. Either of these scenarios presents a weight issue for your roof, which can expose vulnerable points to allow moisture penetration and eventual water flow into the property.
Your home could experience flood damage if your roof is compromised. When water begins to find a path inside of your house through the attic space, the flow of melting snow from this opening in your insulation could be substantial depending on the amount of snow still trapped on top of the house. This water damage can spread quickly through the attic space and begin to affect the floors below.
Our SERVPRO team can respond quickly at the first sign of flooding in your home. We have the advanced equipment and the experience to help mitigate your loss while we establish what is necessary to overcome the effects throughout the property and return a restored home to you. This initial assessment can also help to provide your insurance provider with the necessary documentation and evidence of the damages to speed up the process of claim approval to afford the restoration work required.
With flooding in your home, the first step is boarding up the damaged area of the roof to prevent further penetration until reconstruction efforts can occur. Depending on the damages, these rebuilding efforts must happen before restoration work can begin. Our SERVPRO franchise offers to build back services to provide a comprehensive package for our customers with reputable licensed contractors.
Recovering from a flood is nothing that a homeowner should have to do alone. You can depend on our SERVPRO rapid response team to help mitigate the loss and provide our expertise into every step towards restoring your water-damaged home fully.
We are faster to any disaster and are here to help make things "Like it never even happened."
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SERVPRO Tips: What To Do When Your Sewer Backs Up After A Storm
12/9/2020 (Permalink)
As a commercial building owner, you are responsible for taking care of your property after a storm. You have to know who to call to take care of a problem. When you first enter your building, you may notice a foul, sewer smell. Sewer backup during a storm does not always happen, but it can. You may have to deal with this problem for the following reasons:
• Excess water
• Blockages
• Breaks
No matter why you have sewage seeping into your building, you may want to call in a commercial storm remediation team right away.
Storms are often associated with rainwater. When there is a lot of water falling at once, the ground may not be able to hold it all. As the water table rises, flooding happens all over the area. Not only does the rising water table push water into basements and low-lying areas, but it also causes the sewer to run out of space. When the sewer cannot go down, it must come up.
Storms can also lead to blockages in your pipes or in other parts of the sewer system. When rocks and other debris are washed into the sewer, it may block up some of the piping. This again leaves the traveling sewage with few options. Because it cannot go forward, you may have to deal with a sewer backup.
When trees and powerlines are downed, sewer lines can get broken. When these lines are broken, you may have to deal with contaminated, black water seeping into your commercial building. A break may take a while to take care of, so your sewage may have to be turned off until the problem can be properly addressed.
It is never fun to deal with a sewer backup. When this issue is accompanied by other storm damage, you may feel overwhelmed and worried without the help of a team of experts.
So give us a call! We are faster to any disaster and will make things like storm damage "Like it never even happened."
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SERVPRO Tips: Preventing Damage During A Flood
7/15/2020 (Permalink)
Flood damage is possible in any building. While it’s certainly more common in a flood plain, any area that receives significant rainfall during a storm could experience some effects. There are ways, however, to prevent damage to your commercial building during a flood. Here are some tips for keeping your business safe and dry.
1. Build on High Ground
A great location is the best way to prevent flooding. When you are scouting for places to build, consider the relative elevation of your options. If the lowest level of your building is above flood level, it is unlikely to flood due to rising groundwater. Let gravity work in your favor whenever possible.
2. Maintain Your Property
You may not be able to choose a higher location, but you can choose to inspect your property and make timely repairs. Flood damage experts advise that you clean downspouts and gutters frequently, ridding them of debris that may cause water to pool on your roof. Check your roof, walls and foundation for cracks or other weak points where water could get in. Make sure your windows are sealed properly against outside elements.
3. Dry Proof the Building
In addition to making sure there are no vulnerable points where water can enter your building, you can prevent storm damage by actually setting up barriers to water that directs it away from your foundation. Make sure the grade around your building slopes away from its base. This helps storm water flow naturally in the other direction. You can build miniature dams to reroute the flow as well. Finally, install a sump pump in your basement to get rid of any water that does find its way in.
If you can choose the location of your building, higher ground can prevent a lot of flood damage. Even if your property is in the middle of a flood plain, however, you can still take measures to keep it from flooding.
So give us a call today! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO Tips: Protecting Your Home From Water Damage
7/1/2020 (Permalink)
If there are large trees near the structure of your home, inspect them to remove loose or dead branches. Also, check to see if the tree is strong enough to withstand high winds. If your roof is not in good shape, repair it. If it's not strong and resilient you'll have to deal with massive leaks, flooding, or even water damage.
Keeping the gutters clean is also a great way of protecting your home. Clogged gutters help drain rainwater and stop leaks or other such problems. Keep them clean and in good repair before the storm season hits. Make sure all windows, doors, and garage doors are strong and can withstand the storm to some extent. While you can’t predict the kind of damage a storm might cause, you can minimize it to some extent by being prepared and making sure your home is ready for it.
Winter Tips-Water
12/4/2018 (Permalink)
Winter weather brings icy winds and dipping temperatures which can do a lot of damage to your home by freezing pipes and leaving you without flowing water.
Before Freezing Weather:
- Disconnect and drain hoses from outside faucets. If your home has a separate shut-off valve for outside faucets, then use it to shut the water off to your outside faucets. Then go outside and turn on the faucets to drain water from the line. If your home does not have a separate shut-off valve for outside faucets, then wrap each outside faucets with insulation or newspaper.
-Insulate pipes or faucets in unheated areas such as the garage, crawl space, or/and attic. Check with your local home improvement store for which materials to use to insulate your pipes.
-Turn off and drain irrigation systems and backflow devices. Wrap backflow devices with insulating material.
-Cover foundation vents with foam blocks, thickly folded newspaper or cardboard.
-Show household members how to turn off water to the house in case of emergencies. The main shut-off valve is often located near the water heater or washing machine. If a pip burst anywhere in the house - kitchen, bath, basement, or crawl space - this valve turns it off.
Don't forget, we are faster to any disaster, even winter ones! We will make it "Like it never even happened."
How to Prevent Summer Water Damage
6/7/2018 (Permalink)
In the middle of all the varying weather and the rain, our house is the least place we would want the water to collect. For this reason, water drainage is one of the things we should consider to attain through waterproofing. Let’s look at the tips below so that we can control the water damage in your house.
* Fix water leaks in your home: Whether it is a leaking roof, a dripping pipe, or damaged shingles/roof.
* Test your sump pump: you will always be sure to prevent any water leaks in your home if you check the status of your sump pump. -Do this annually so that you are prepared for any flooding that may occur. -
* Clean the roof gutters: A clogged gutter, on a rainy day, forces water spillage to your home foundation. This can be done through the roof or down the basement to cause serious foundation water damage.
* Lock and close the doors, windows, vents, and skylights to keep out the wind and water if you go on vacation. You can also shut off the gas to the heater or turn on the vocation setting of your home if you are going on vacation.
* Clogged toilets: Summer often means that the kids are home from school. It also means that you receive frequent visits from your family and friends. This often leads to an increased toilet and bathroom usage. In this case, it means that toilets will be clogged easily. Be sure to look at the base of your toilet to check how it flushes. This often reveals signs of stains, waterproofing and rolled vinyl.
* Keep an eye on your water bill: Water bills can cause havoc on your financial plans in a home. If they are too high, they often affect your budget. Water pipes are often hidden behind the floors and in the walls. For this reason, a leak will not be recognized easily. Until damage has been caused, a leak will not be known in the home setup. Be sure to keep an eye on the monthly billing rates of your water usage. If the cost has gone up or they have started looking unusual, this is a good sign that there is a leak somewhere.
Spring Storm Resources
6/7/2018 (Permalink)
Spring has arrived and so are the storms associated with the season. In fact, several areas throughout the country have already experienced costly floods and damaging tornadoes.
High winds and hail cause the majority of roof damage each year, reminding us of the importance of strong, well maintained roofs that are properly anchored and impact-resistant.
Another important storm-related risk is lightning, which also can be a deadly and costly part of severe weather causing millions of dollars in insurance losses annually, as strikes damage electronics and cause fires.
Because spring storms can form and move quickly, residents should pay close attention to weather reports and make sure they are set up to receive Wireless Emergency Alerts from the National Weather Service (NWS) on their cell phones, or have a NOAA Weather Radio available.
Tornadoes are among the most destructive forces of nature with about 1,000 of these powerful storms occurring annually in the U.S., causing an average of more than $1 billion in property damage and 80 deaths. Stronger tornadoes such as those rated EF-2 and above pack extremely high winds and can destroy a house or business within seconds. Weaker tornadoes also can be damaging, but a well-built house or business has a greater chance of surviving these storms with limited damage.
Not all severe weather is alike, which is why your reactions to different storms also shouldn’t be alike. Both hailstorms and tornadoes are damaging in their own way. In order to reduce your risks during each kind of storm, you should react to whether hail or a tornado is present.
Roof Inspection Check List:
If you have a shingle roof look for:
- Loose shingle tabs
- Cracks in shingles
- Broken or missing tabs
- Buckling or curling shingles
- Blistering of tabs
- Majority of granules worn off tabs
Check for the following:
- Are penetrations are well sealed and tight?
- Are there gaps and/or signs of missing sealant?
- Are there badly deteriorated holes and gaps?
- Do vents wiggle back and forth?
- Are they well attached?
- Are there screws attaching turbines or caps off-ridge vent?
- Are vents tightly screwed down?
- If nails are used, are they are properly attached?
Evaluate for the following signs of damage outside the home:
- Leaks inside the attic
- Water stains on roof decking – look around the chimney, around vents and pipes and valleys
- Discolored roofing deck, rafters or trusses
Evaluate for signs of leaks from inside the house:
- Water stains on ceiling
- Cracked wall or ceiling paint
- Peeling wall paper
Storm Safety
6/30/2017 (Permalink)
Don’t underestimate the power of strong thunderstorm winds known as straight-line winds – they can reach speeds of 100 to 150 mph. Hurricane-force winds start at 74 mph. If a severe thunderstorm warning contains hurricane-force wind speeds seek shelter immediately. Stay away from windows and go to the basement or interior room/hallway. Do not use electrical appliances. Be aware that tall trees near a building can be uprooted by straight-line winds – that tree can come crashing through the roof of a home and crush a person to death. A downburst can cause damage equivalent to a strong tornado! Be smart and stay safe!
And if your home or business is ever affected by a storm remember to call SERVPRO of North Elkhart County 574-343-1397
Kids Storm Safety Tips
6/30/2017 (Permalink)
- There’s a strong possibility that the lights could go out during storm; here are some tips to keep you safe while playing in the rain.
- Stay inside during thunderstorms, lightening and wind can damage power lines and trees.
- Remind grown-ups to stay away from downed power lines, especially when they are outside cleaning up after a storm.
- Use flashlights instead of candles they are a lot safer.
- Try not to open the refrigerator or freezer unless you have to; it could take a few days for power to be restored.
- Ask grown-ups to unplug appliances, this will prevent damage when the power comes on.
And if your home or business is ever affected by a storm remember to call SERVPRO of North Elkhart County 574-343-1397
April showers bring May flowers
4/14/2017 (Permalink)
Spring storms can also bring flooding and home damage to your Elkhart home. As the beginning of spring is here, and the rains with it. There are a few things you can do to prevent water damage to your home or business.
- Check all downspouts on your home and garage.
- Repair or replace any damaged or disconnected downspouts.
- Check that all gutters on your home are secure and free of debris.
- Make sure all downspouts are draining away from your home and garage. Large amounts of rain can cause puddling near the foundation and allow water to back up into your home or basement.
- Inspect window wells around basement windows, to ensure proper drainage away from windows.
- Clean any leaves or debris from window wells or egress windows to prevent water from entering through windows.
If the spring storms cause damage to your homie or business we are #HERETOHELP
Call 574-343-1397
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