6 Home Damage Mitigation Tips

8/21/2021 (Permalink)

A storm can cause severe damage to your home in Black Forest, CO.

One of the functions of your roof is to protect your home from wind, water, and falling objects. When you have roof damage, that protection is often weakened and without mitigation can lead to additional damage to your home.

These mitigation tips can help you avoid additional damage.

1. Cover Broken or Cracked Windows and Skylights

Damage from hail, tree limbs, or debris can create cracks or holes in windows and skylights. This can cause leaks if it rains before you can have permanent repairs made. Cover damaged windows and skylights with plastic to prevent additional damage while you wait for repairs.

2. Use a Tarp on Your Damaged Roof

If your roof has wind damage or has begun to leak after a storm, cover the damaged area with a tarp or call a contractor in Black Forest, CO, to do it for you. If you can not immediately place a tarp, put buckets under the leaking areas to reduce the amount of water damage in your home. If you have substantial water damage, consider contacting a water restoration company to dry out your property. This will reduce the chance that the excess moisture will lead to mold growth.

3. Remove Fallen Trees

Heavy rains can saturate the ground around your home and cause trees to fall on your house. If this happens to you, contact a tree company to remove the fallen tree as soon as possible and place a tarp on any areas with roof damage. You can prevent future damage by keeping trees near your home trimmed and removing any trees that are dead or unhealthy.

4. Repair Damaged Shingles

Loose, missing or damaged shingles can make your roof more vulnerable to damage from wind, rain, and snow. Have your roof inspected regularly and any time you have had a major storm event. Repair any issues with your roof before the next storm occurs.

5. Replace Your Roof When Needed

A roof with asphalt shingles will last between 15 to 30 years. Wood shingle roofs need to be replaced after 20 to 25 years. Rubber roofs can last 30 to 50 years and metal roofs will last 50 to 75 years. Replacing your roof when needed helps to protect the interior of your home from damage. Regularly maintaining your roof and keeping it free from debris can prolong its life.

6. Maintain Your Siding

Damaged siding is another frequent entry point for wind and water. Vinyl siding can last between 30 and 40 years. Other types of siding may need to be replaced more frequently. If your siding is damaged during a storm or other event, use a tarp to cover the damaged area until it can be replaced. If you have wood siding, keep it painted and regularly inspect it for signs of rot.

If you have roof damage, it is important to take steps to ensure that wind, rain, or other elements do not cause additional damage to your property while you wait for permanent repairs. If you have insurance, your insurance may cover the cost of damage mitigation efforts.