Storms damage properties and structures, and addressing the damage can be difficult. In general, wind and storm damage includes property destruction caused by tornadoes, thunderstorms, blizzards, wind storms, and hail storms. The damage can range from small, such as a broken window, to severe, such as flooding and foundation damage. In this article, we’ll cover different types of storm damage and what to do if your home has been affected.
1. Roof Damage
Storms and heavy rainfall can impact your roof, leading to cracks, holes, dents, and lifting shingles. When your roof is damaged, water seeps inside, leading to damp walls, peeling paint, and severe structural damage.
Some of the signs of roof damage are as follows:
- Missed, cracked, and damaged shingles
- Leaks, water stains, and wet spots
- Bent metal around the chimney
- Leaks in the attic
2. Window Damage
Windows may break during a storm due to windborne debris. Strong wind can cause windows to crack, break, and shatter. Glass windows and even double-glazed windows can break due to low barometric pressure. It’s important to replace broken and damaged windows to maintain the safety, security, and visual appeal of your house.
Some of the signs of a damaged window are as follows:
- Difficulty opening and closing windows
- Cracks and holes in the glass
- Damaged window frames
3. Structural Damage
After heavy storms and rainfall, it’s more likely that you’ll experience flooding on your property. Excessive water seeping into your basement and crawl space can lead to wall and foundation damage. It’s important to remove water and restore the structural integrity of your home to prevent structural failure and or mold growth.
Some of the signs of structural damage are as follows:
- Foundation wall cracks
- Broken or cracked tiles
- Interior water stains
- Damp subfloor
- Musty odors
4. Electrical and Equipment Damage
One of the most common types of storm damage is electrical and equipment damage. Water often leaks into homes during heavy rainfall and storms. When the water comes into contact with wires or outlets, it can cause shocks, fire hazards, short circuits, or other malfunctions. The flooding can also damage equipment such as computers, transformers, air conditioners, and televisions.
Some of the signs of electrical and equipment damage are as follows:
- A burning smell coming from wires or outlets
- Water or dampness around wires or outlets
- Sparks, power surges, or outages
- Flickering lights
- Regular circuit breaker tripping
5. Hail Damage
Hail is a form of solid ice that sometimes falls during storms or severe weather. When hail is combined with heavy wind, it can lead to broken windows, roof damage, or other damage to your home. Hail is sometimes accompanied by cyclones and tornadoes that cause damage to residential and commercial buildings as well as severe injury.
Some of the signs of hail damage to your house are as follows:
- Cracked and dented shingles
- Damaged exterior furnishings
- Chipped paint
- Holes in doors and windows
6. Siding Damage
Siding, also known as wall cladding, protects your house’s exterior walls. Strong winds and low barometric pressure during storms can lead to broken or chipped siding. Siding damage can cause various issues, such as degradation of the roof’s functionality, moisture issues, water damage, noisy siding, and peeling paint. It’s important to replace damaged siding to prevent further damage due to water incursions.
Some of the signs of siding damage are as follows:
- Mold and mildew growth
- Rippling and warping
- Severely faded siding
- High energy bills
7. Impact Damage
Strong winds during storms can cause branches, debris, or other objects to strike and hit the house, leading to visible dents, scratches, cracks, or structural damage. If you see any impact damage after the storm, consider seeking help from professionals to repair the damage and restore your home to its optimal condition.
Some of the signs of impact damage are as follows:
- Broken windows
- Scrapes, dents, or holes in your roof or siding
- Chipping or cracked concrete
- Damaged paint
- Leaks in walls or shingles
What to Do After Storm Damage?
After a storm, you’ll face different types of damage, such as structural damage, flooding, property damage, musty odors, and condensation. To help you take action quickly, here is a step-by-step guide,
Step 1: Inspect Your Home’s Condition
After the storm has completely passed and it’s safe to step outside your house, check the exterior and interior condition of your home. A thorough evaluation will help you determine the damage caused and whether you need professional help or not.
Step 2: Contact your Insurance Provider
Depending on your insurance provider, you may have limited time to claim the damage caused by the storm or other natural calamities. You should contact them and get detailed information about your coverage.
Step 3: Contact a Reliable Storm Damage Restoration Company
To restore your home’s structural integrity, you need to find a reliable storm damage restoration company. Choose an expert service provider who will use the latest technologies and methods during the restoration process.
Step 4: Assess the Damage and Start Storm Damage Repair
After you choose a restoration company, the experts will assess your commercial or residential building to determine the type of storm damage. Then, they will recommend and implement suitable solutions based on the damage caused.
Conclusion
Storms can cause different types of damage, ranging from minor to severe. The impact of storm damage can be overwhelming, but you need to take the necessary actions to restore your property’s condition. If you’re looking for a reliable storm damage repair service provider, Oklahoma City Restorations is the best option! We use the latest technologies and advanced restoration techniques to provide your home with the care it deserves. Schedule an appointment with us today!