Hampton Roads, VA is no stranger to bad weather. Heavy winds from hurricanes, tornadoes, or other storms can cause significant and costly damage to your home, business, or other property. The good news is that a few preventive steps can help you reduce your risk of wind-related damage. At Goodrich & Watson, we are committed to helping you protect your assets with practical advice and reliable insurance solutions.
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10 Tips to Reduce Wind Damage to Your Home or Business
When it comes to protecting your property from wind damage, proactive risk management is key. By taking time to prepare for wind storms, you can improve the odds of keeping your property safe when one occurs. Here are ten tips to help you reduce wind damage to your home or business:
Regular Roof Inspections
Consider hiring a licensed roofing professional to evaluate the integrity of your roof and perform necessary repairs. Regular inspections can help you identify and fix potential weak spots before they become major issues.
Maintain Roof Flashing and Siding
Wind can tear away loose shingles or worsen cracks in a building’s siding, making it possible for rain to seep in and cause water damage. Regular maintenance can prevent these issues from escalating.
Secure Rooftop Equipment
Strong winds can damage satellite dishes, lights, solar panels, and other items attached to your roof. Use anchored straps and cables to hold them in place and prevent them from becoming hazardous projectiles.
Clear Debris from Gutters and Downspouts
Rain often accompanies strong winds and can lead to water damage if your home or business’s drainage system is blocked. Regularly clearing debris can ensure proper water flow and prevent overflow.
Inspect Trees on or Near Your Property
Heavy winds can uproot dead or dying trees, which can fall on your house or car. If you are worried about a large tree close to your home or business, call an arborist for pruning or removal (get permission from local authorities if required).
Remove Debris Around Your Property
Strong winds can hurl loose objects like tools, boards, and toys at your property, breaking windows and damaging walls. Keep your yard tidy to minimize these risks.
Secure Outdoor Furniture
Have a secure place to store outdoor furniture when you get a storm warning, or consider using anchor straps or cables to tether them to a sturdy fence or building so they can’t blow away.
Secure Your Home or Business
Close and lock windows, and interior, loading dock, and garage doors to help prevent potential wind uplift.
Prepare Your Vehicle(s)
Park your car, truck, or other vehicle under cover, ideally in a garage, and away from trees to protect them from falling debris.
Create an Emergency Plan
Consider enabling emergency alerts on your cellphone to get the latest updates. Decide where you and your family or employees will go if ordered to evacuate. Create a disaster kit with food, water, and first aid supplies to last a few days.
Stay Informed and Prepared
For more information on protecting your property from storm and wind damage, or to discuss your home insurance needs, reach out to Goodrich & Watson today. Our team is here to provide you with the support and solutions you need to safeguard your assets effectively. 757-591-2032
