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Protecting Your Property From Wind Damage | SERVPRO® of Kingston/New Paltz
11/26/2018 (Permalink)
Protect your property from damaging winds!
Many concerns accompany severe storms, with damaging winds being one of them. These winds can appear with little to no notice and can be problematic due to long-term structural impacts.
When you think of damaging winds, what comes to mind? Probably a tornado or hurricane, but those are not the only times when they may come into play.
As a general rule, damaging winds are considered winds with speeds exceeding 50–60 mph and can be the result of a strong thunderstorm. You will commonly hear damaging winds referred to as “straight-line” winds. These are not to be confused with winds and damage from a tornado.
The damage from straight-line winds can be very destructive, as these winds can cause loose, unanchored objects to become projectiles. Windows and roofs can take the brunt of this damage, and if it’s extensive enough, there can be resulting water damage to the home as the outside elements come indoors.
Anyone who lives in a thunderstorm-prone area can be at risk from damaging winds, but there are some structures that are especially at risk. One such structure is the mobile home. Even those that are anchored could be severely damaged when the wind gusts to over 80 mph.
Here are a few practical steps you can take to protect your property from damaging winds:
Make sure your garage door is professionally reinforced.
Remove and/or anchor any loose items on your property that could be moved or tossed around by the wind, such as trash cans, grills and outdoor furniture.
If you have a large or dying tree near your home, have a professional remove it and any large branches that could be blown over onto your home or break away and come through the window.
Mind you, not all high wind circumstances will come with advanced warning. But, as we all know, being prepared for that “just in case” situation could save you a lot of headaches down the road.
Also, you can have some outdoor furnishings permanently anchored in their locations. If you are building a new home or renovating an older home, be sure the windows, walls and doors are up to code for your area.
If your home has been hit by damaging winds and resulting water damage, the highly trained specialists at SERVPRO® of Kingston/New Paltz are here to help with the cleanup and restoration of your home. Call us at 845-255-4334.