Where To Check For Water Damage When Returning Home Post-Storm
Posted on: 25 May 2022
Having to evacuate your home before a big storm can be scary. When you do return to your home, you may spend some time looking around for any major problems. If the roof is still in one piece and the basement is not flooded, you can count yourself pretty lucky. But this should not be the end of your search for water damage.
Even if your home did not suffer major storm damage, it may have some less-obvious water damage in other areas. You want to detect this water damage early so you can get it addressed before mold starts growing or the damage worsens. Without further ado, here are the key places to check for water damage when you return home post-storm.
Around Doors and Windows
Driving rain can penetrate straight through the weatherstripping and caulk that surround your windows and doors. It can leave the weatherstripping or caulk loose and also cause water to pool on the window sills or at the bases of doors. A water damage repair team can remove and replace any building materials that absorbed the moisture, and they can also replace the damaged caulk or weatherstripping.
Around Vents
Even if your roof is intact, you should look closely at any vents or chimneys that come through the roof. Is the roof material around these penetrations peeling? Is there flashing that's lifting up or coming unattached? This may seem like minor damage, but it will let in a lot of water the next time there is a storm. You need to have the damage addressed before another bout of bad weather makes it worse.
The Gutters
Gutters can take quite a beating during a storm. Branches can bang into them, leading to dents. Roof granules can rinse into them, leading to clogs that cause any additional water to spill over the sides. If your gutters are damaged or clogged, you can look forward to additional water damage as water starts running down the side of your home or accumulating on the roof. So, if your gutters look damaged at all after a storm, you should have them fixed sooner rather than later.
It's definitely wonderful to return home and find that your home has not suffered major flooding, a roof collapse, or other serious storm damage. Both smaller instances of storm and water damage should also be identified and addressed ASAP once you're home.
For more information, contact a water damage restoration service in your area.
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