Strong Storms And Damaging Winds

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

Severe storms can bring a number of concerns, but damaging winds are always a threat. These winds can come with little to no notice, and they can be problematic because they can have long-term structural impacts.

Understanding Damaging Winds

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. Mobile homes, even those that have been anchored, could sustain serious damage with wind gusts over 80 mph.

While many think damaging winds are a result of a tornado or hurricane, those are not the only times when they may come into play. Winds exceeding 50–60 mph are traditionally considered damaging winds and can be produced by a strong thunderstorm. You will commonly hear damaging winds referred to as “straight-line” winds to differentiate the damage from tornado damage.

The damage from these winds can be especially destructive, as they can cause any objects not anchored to become projectiles. Windows and the roof can take the brunt of this damage, and if the damage is extensive, it can result in water damage to the home as the outside elements come indoors through the damaged windows and roof.

How to Protect Your Property

Below are some ways to be proactive in protecting your property from damaging winds. The “Two R’s” are a good place to begin, reinforce and remove.

• Have a professional reinforce your garage door.
• Safely store or anchor loose objects on your property that could become projectiles. This includes trash cans, grills and outdoor furniture.
• Dying or dead large trees and limbs need to be removed by a professional so that they don’t blow over onto the home.

Don’t rely on advanced notice for a high wind situation. Not all high wind circumstances come with advanced warning. But being proactive with some of these action items can prepare you for just these situations.

Also, if you are building a new home or renovating an older home, be sure your walls, windows and doors meet the building code for your area.

If your home has been hit by damaging winds and resulting water damage, the highly trained specialists at SERVPRO of East Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch are here to help with the cleanup and restoration of your home. Call us today (941) 747-2333.