With the unusual amount of summer storms working their way across Chicago and the northwest suburbs, many homeowners are unprepared for the repercussions they may have on their home. Flash flooding and high winds can cause substantial damage to a home, and it isn’t always entirely visible. Preparing yourself for the possibility that problems may occur after a particularly destructive storm will ensure that you address the issues efficiently and spare your home unnecessary damage.
Water Damage
Many people fail to realize that water can actually be one of the most damaging elements of a summer storm. Whether it’s a lengthy and persistent rain or a flash flood, water can find its way into various nooks and crannies of your home. Although the basement is typically a common area for flooding, there are other ways that water can begin to infiltrate your home. If your home has foundation issues, for example, you may begin to see water spots on your ceiling or walls. These water spots may merely seem unsightly, but they possess the capability to cause much more permanent damage.
Mold can begin to grow as early as 24 hours after water damage occurs; waiting even 2 to 3 days can put the condition of your home in jeopardy. Because water damage is the #1 cause of mold growth, it is more than likely that any water damage left unaddressed can become problematic. Water from a substantial storm is also more likely to have bacteria and other contaminates that may promote the growth of mold.
Water can also weaken the foundation of your home and cause the wood to begin to rot. Structurally this can place the entirety of your home in jeopardy, as well as the safety of its occupants. Many older homes, particularly those with worn shingles, may allow a small amount of water to seep through their protective coating. Regular maintenance on your home and awareness of any weakening or vulnerable areas will allow you to address problematic areas before they cause any difficulties.
High Winds
Summer storms are known for producing particularly high winds, and, on rare occasions, tornados. While tornados are a much higher cause for concern than a standard, summer storm, there are still possibilities for your home to suffer from the effects of high winds.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t take a tornado to cause a tree to topple over. Many times, large branches, twigs, and even the entire trunk can be hazardous to your home. If you live in a particularly old grove of trees, or trees that may have been killed by diseases like Dutch elm disease, there is a greater likelihood that they may become flying debris during a storm. Removing dying or dead trees or branches from your property is important in order to protect the structure of your home.
High winds can also cause water to seep into places that may not be well protected from the elements. Windows, for example, are frequent areas that lack watertight seals and allow water infiltration. If water is able to access these areas, mold will once again become a threat to your home. If mold does grow, opening your windows can cause mold spores to blow into your home and begin growing in other areas. Making sure that your windows and doors have a watertight seal will allow you to significantly reduce your mold risk.
Taking these precautions against storms can not only reduce your risk of consequential damage, but can allow you to feel as though you have control over the condition of your home, and save you valuable time and money. Don’t let storms get the best of you!
