2021 is turning out to be an unprecedented year for unpredictable weather. Meteorologists studying hurricane trends are considering changing the start of the Atlantic hurricane season to May 15th; the Gulf Coast season usually begins on June 1st. This suggestion comes amid data that predicts stronger storms in the Atlantic basin, including the Gulf of Mexico. In the Northern and Central Gulf areas, sea-surface temperatures are already above average. These high temperatures have set the stage for the largest number of hurricanes on record. What does that mean for home renovations?
Although the season always calls for residents to prepare their homes for possible storm damage, this year’s abnormal weather patterns predict an above-average number of storms that could cause millions of dollars in damage. Learn the common types of home renovations and repairs needed after a storm and what steps you should take if your home is damaged due to extreme weather.
Common Home Renovations and Repairs After a Storm
Depending on the season and type of storm, your home may suffer different types of damage. Even if you take steps to protect your home from storm damage, you may still need repairs.
Summer brings floods and hurricanes, which cause structural and water damage, while winter storms bring ice and snow, which cause damage to roofs, gutters, and pipes.
Summer Storm Season – Floods and Hurricanes
In the Gulf, summer marks the start of hurricane season and flooding. This type of weather can cause structural, electrical, and water damage to your home, including mold, warped floors, foundation cracks, roof sagging, broken electrical wires, HVAC system damage, and damage to drywall, carpet, and floors, as well as broken windows.
To repair extensive damage done by floods and hurricanes, it is vital you work with an experienced home renovation company to ensure your home is restored to a safe, livable condition.
Pre- and Post-Summer – Thunderstorms, Tornadoes, and Hail
Summer and fall are known for volatile storms brought on by the change in temperatures. Thunderstorms and tornadoes cause heavy rain, hail, and high winds, which can deteriorate homes in the Lone Star State. Common repairs after these transitional season storms are on roofs, windows, siding, and sometimes structural damage done by strong winds or large hailstones. Flooding caused by heavy rainfall also causes water damage, which necessitates proper mold removal and home restoration work.
Winter Storms – Freezing Rain, Ice, and Snow
In the winter of 2021, Texas experienced severe winter storms that left thousands without power and devastated their homes. Freezing rain, ice, and snow can cause damage to your home’s roof, siding, and drainage system. Even worse, when snow and ice melt, they seep into the ground or freeze pipes, which causes water damage inside your home. Home repairs after winter storms are especially complex because it often takes weeks or months to thoroughly assess the repairs needed.
Home Renovation Steps to Take After Storm Damage
If your home is damaged after a storm, it is essential to take the proper steps to ensure you remain safe, gain an accurate assessment of the damage, and file a timely insurance claim.
- – As soon as it is safe to do so, check your home for damage. Document the damage with photographs and video.
- – Contact a contractor and get an estimate on the repairs for your home. This is especially important if you have custom work or have made recent home improvements.
- – Contact your homeowner’s insurance agent soon after the storm. Don’t throw anything away or attempt repairs unless your insurance agent advises you to.
- – Ask your insurance company which repairs are needed immediately and which repairs can be done later.
- – Assess your home a second time. Document any damage you did not notice on the first inspection.
- – Shut off the water or power if necessary. Also, cover holes in the roof or windows with plywood or weatherproof sheeting if possible.
- – Clear a path in and out of your home to prevent injuries.
It is important to remain calm and work through these steps slowly. It can be difficult to deal with damage to your home after a storm, especially if the damage is extensive. However, if your loved ones are safe and you follow these steps, you can get the restoration process started quickly, allowing you to get back to normal.
Restore Your Home After Storm Damage
If this year’s unpredictable storms caused damage to your home, contact Big State Construction for safe, affordable, and thorough home renovation, repairs and restoration. Our team is experienced in repairing home damage caused by hurricanes, flooding, thunderstorms, ice, rain, and snow. We will visit your home to assess the damage and work with you to restore your home. Contact us online or give us a call at 713-574-8956.