Home Preparation Tips for Summer Storms
The arrival of summer means the arrival of summer storms. It is time to take appropriate actions and prepare your home for the winds and rain. In Central Minnesota, we have to consider the possibility of damage from thunderstorms, high winds, and tornadoes; these are hazards we need to be ready for. Summer storms can be severe, and it is a good idea to check your home and make sure it can handle wet and stormy weather. Fortunately, there are ways to be better prepared.
Make Sure You Have the Right Insurance
Check your policy and find out what your home insurance covers. This is especially important if you live in areas prone to severe summer storms. Check to make sure your policy covers weather-related damage including the wind, water, and fire.
Buy a Generator
Weather-related power outages are very common and having a backup power source handy is incredibly valuable. Without electricity, you cannot keep your food fresh, pump flood water out of your home, or run your home security system. Your life may come to a complete standstill without power. The heat in the summer can become unbearable without a working AC, and all your appliances and gadgets will not work. Generators come in many styles and sizes so make sure you find one that will suit your needs at an affordable price.
Install and/or Check a Sump Pump
Most houses built in areas prone to severe storms have sump pumps installed in the basement. Heavy rains often lead to flooded basements and the water can cause many damages. If you are in an area prone to flooding and do not have one, contact your contractor and have one installed. In either case, check to make sure your pump is working and has power before the season begins.
Inspect Your Roof, Gutters, and Drains
Having a leaking roof during a heavy rainstorm can be just as or even more damaging than a flooded basement. Make sure your gutters are clear of debris and your roof shingles are intact and in excellent condition. Hail and heavy rain can destroy roof shingles and clog up your gutters. So check them at the end of the season before the winter snows begin as well.
Prune and Trim Trees in Your Yard
Damage from falling trees is very common, especially if you live in a wooded area. If you have trees that hang over your roof, it is a good idea to trim them back. Broken branches can damage your roof and cause power outages.
Stock up on Essentials
It can be difficult to get food and other essentials after a storm. Stock up your pantry with enough canned goods and drinking water to last at least a week. Spring and early summer are a great time to start stocking up during spring. Summer storms can strike without warning, and it is best to be prepared in advance.
Fix It Fast
Even with the best preparation, damage from summer storms can still occur. If you experience damage to your home, contact your insurance company and call a contractor you can trust to repair it for you. The sooner your damage is repaired, the better. Even slight damage left to sit can make matters worse and repairs significantly more costly.
About Yamry Construction
For 25 years, Yamry Construction has been dedicated to providing exceptional building and remodeling services for homes and businesses throughout Minnesota. As an experienced and licensed general contractor, we understand the importance of offering quality work at reasonable prices. Our mission is to do just that for each and every client. Yamry Construction only partners with the most skilled and professional trade partners. This ensures a delightful experience for our customers that will exceed their expectations. Visit our Residential Construction page, or contact us and learn why we are “Corner Perfect Every Time!”
