3 Things to Check After Potential Storm DamageWhile the majority of weather in Plano and North Dallas consists of high winds or mild and brief rainfall, our homes do get buffeted with intense rainfall, driving winds, tornado-weather, and hailstorms from time to time.  Of course, we can’t stop weather from coming our way, but we can take steps to prevent initial damage and then repair our homes after a ravaging storm walks through the city.  Let’s take a moment to step through what you can do to check your home for damage after a storm and how you can prevent future damage.  Remember that it’s always a good idea to call your insurance company after a storm to have a complete inspection of any damage since many damages are not obvious at first.

Roof Damage

A close up view of shingle and flashing damage.
A close up view of shingle and flashing damage.

During a rainstorm, keep an eye on the ceiling and walls for since of water dripping through.  Be sure to look through your attic during or just after the storm for wet spots in case a leak formed during the storm as well.  Once the storm is over, you’ll want to step outside and perform a visual inspection of your roof, either by climbing up to look at it or using binoculars from the ground.  Look for:

  • Missing shingles
  • Broken or cracked shingles
  • Granules and fragments collecting in gutters
  • Dented vents, gutters, and flashing
  • Large branches on home

Siding Damage

While the roof of your home often takes the brunt of the damage from a storm, driving rain and high winds can whip around objects and deliver lasting damage to the side of your home.  Likewise, pooling water can dam up against the side of your home and begin leaking into the foundation.  Always give your home  full walk-around and look for common signs of exterior damage such as:

  • Dings and dents in siding
  • Cracks or splitting
  • Holes and clear breaks
  • Chipping, peeling, or discolored paint

Window Damage

While north Texas faces high winds often, many home don’t sport exterior shutters, which leaves us exposed to window damage.  After an especially rough storm it’s always a good idea to take a close look at the windows around your home.  If any windows are broken, be cautious of glass shards in the area.  Look for these common signs of damage:

  • Shattered windows
  • Cracked glass
  • Broken panes
  • Damaged frame
  • Water on inside of sill
  • Torn weather-stripping

Preparing for a Storm

It’s always better to stay safe when a storm is approaching.  What can start out as a mild storm can quickly turn to flash-flooding or driving winds.  Preparing for the worst can often be the difference between life and death when it comes to the safety of your family.  If you aren’t in town when a storm is approaching, have a friend help you out and prepare your home for the worst.

According to stormdamagecenter.org:

To prepare for a storm, each family should have an emergency kit. Since you may have to evacuate on short notice, pack your emergency kit into backpacks and have them ready to go. Everyone in the family should know exactly where the emergency kits are located.

Your emergency kit should contain:

  • Battery powered flashlight
  • Portable battery powered radio
  • Extra batteries
  • List of emergency phone numbers
  • Prescriptions and essential medicines
  • First aid kit
  • Nonperishable emergency food
  • Bottled water (1 gallon per person, per day)
  • Non-electric can opener
  • Disposable camera
  • Credit cards and cash
  • Change of clothing
  • Sturdy shoes or boots
  • Important papers, identification and bank information

Remember that if anything does happen to your home, once water starts flowing in you should retreat to higher ground.  Avoid any rooms that have flooded and turn off power to those rooms to prevent risk of electric shock.  Flooding is a race against time, but your safety is more important.  You can call for professional drying and restoration services after you’ve ensured the safety of your family.  Stay safe out there!


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