Our homes take a beating from a wide range of storms such as tornadoes, blizzards, hurricanes, hail, and dust storms just to protect us. These severe weather patterns have the potential to cause major damage to the places we call home. Through regular inspection of the exterior we can keep our homes in peak condition. 

Roof Inspection

In severe weather, our roofs can take a beating. Flying debris can cause breakage. The weight of leaves and snow can even result in sagging. To assess your roof’s condition here are simple steps you can take:

• Take a walk through your attic during the day. Look for sunlight peeking through the plywood overhead, indicating holes in need of repair.
• While you are in the attic, shine a flashlight on the roof decking, looking for signs of staining or sagging caused by moisture.
• From ground-level exterior, do a visual inspection for missing, cracked or curling shingles.
• Inspect chimneys and vents for bent or detached flashing.
• If you can safely get high enough for a closer inspection, check the roof for missing nails and gutter debris

Attend to roof damage as soon as it is discovered to prolong the life of your roof. Regular visual inspections can save both money and headache by catching minor problems before they turn into major ones. 

Assessing Window Damage

Of all the elements, wind, hail, and water deal the most damage to windows. Even if the windowpane itself isn’t damaged, other damage can cause problems such as decreased energy efficiency and potential mold. A visual inspection of the windows can easily tell how well they are performing if you check for these:

• Shattered/broken window panes
• Screens with tears, bends, or breakage
• Flashing above the window frame in need of repair
• Moisture build-up between window panes or on the inside of the window sill

If you have suffered major damage, Central Exteriors specializes in installing new thermal windows with value in mind. They are experienced in vinyl replacements as well as high-end wood and wood/clad windows. They strive to make your house the most energy efficient, best looking house on the block.

Check on Your Siding

While brick may experience less damage from a storm, siding doesn’t always find the same luck. Damaged siding can cause problems by giving freedom for pests and moisture to take over. So, don’t neglect these warning signs of problems that need to be addressed:

• Inspect for horizontal cracks or holes
• Check for chips and dents in the siding

A visual inspection may be easiest in early morning or evening light. Without the harsh afternoon sun, you will see variations on the surface that need attention right away. Keeping your siding at peak performance will prevent unwanted elements from getting into your home.

Don’t Forget the Fence

Your fence is the fortress of your home by providing both privacy and security. Unfortunately, one severe storm can take away both in a heartbeat. To keep your home protected, walk along the fence and check for these signs of damage:

• Look closely for loose boards and nails
• Check for large cracks in the wood or broken pickets
• The most obvious, if the fence is laying on the ground, it’s taken damage.

If your fence needs repairs, TubNotch Renovations offers the best installation and repair service. Not only are they known in the industry for their excellence in bathroom restoration, but they can also restore your fence to its original beauty.

Before a severe storm hits, take measures to protect your property as much as possible. Secure objects that could become flying debris such as barbecue grills, patio furniture and outdoor toys. Proper tree maintenance will prevent breakage. Review your homeowner’s insurance coverage so you’ll know when it is necessary to file a claim. Although we can’t control the weather, we can do our best to preserve the homes that protect us.