While the weather may seem mild now, stormy weather could be looming. Keep your roof from flying off by taking some precautions to prepare for possible extreme weather. One of our Home Service Connections partners contributed advice on the best ways to prepare our homes and what to do if things are to go awry.
How do you prepare for a summer storm?
Jordan Phillips, president of Liberty Home Remodeling, says that the best way to prepare would be doing a quick home inspection right after wintertime. “Don’t let any loose screens or trim linger during the spring and summer, as hail or high winds can further damage your home,” cautions Phillips. While there isn’t much prep work that you can do once a storm is imminent, securing the perimeter of your home will be your best bet against storms.
What do you do if your home gets damaged during a storm?
Should your home get damaged in some way, Phillips says to never call your insurance company first. Oftentimes, the company will ask to have a contractor examine it first, so it’s best to get the damage inspected before notifying your insurer. The contractor can then see if the amount of damage meets the criteria for an insurance claim. Liberty Home Remodeling offers a free first inspection and can help consumers walk through the process of insurance claims and help determine the extent of the damage.
How do you maintain your roof and siding?
The most important thing is to get a regular home inspection. “Without any severe weather a home inspection is good once every four to five years,” Phillips said. A professional home inspector can check for caulking, sealants around windows and doors and look at construction issues that may not be visible to homeowners.
Reroofing is an option to mitigate roof damage, meaning putting new shingles on top of the existing roof, however Phillips does not recommend this practice. “To improve the longevity of your roof it’s best to do an entire roof replacement,” this will also ensure your roof will receive a 50-year manufacturer’s warranty.
For siding, it’s important to thoroughly clean them with a light power-wash. For aluminum and fiber cement siding they also need to be routinely painted to maintain their look. Vinyl siding is more low maintenance and needs an occasional power-wash to wipe off dirt and other contaminants.
From getting your roof redone to getting a home inspection completed, Long & Foster’s Home Service Connections partners can do it all. Check out their website to find a trusted contractor in your area.