Do not throw caution to the wind

4/29/2013 (Permalink)

Winds in our area have been picking up throughout the day and the National Weather Service has updated previous wind advisories and is now warning of sustained winds of 20-30 mph with gusts of up to 50 mph through 5 a.m. Thursday.

Please take a moment today to check areas around your home and business that may be particularly susceptible to wind damage. With the recent snow and up to a half an inch of rain forecast for late this evening, the wet ground could compound issues with smaller trees as well as those with shallow root systems causing trees to topple. Power lines could also be affected.

Any weather-related havoc is likely to happen overnight while folks are usually in bed so it is important to asses any potential safety hazards before the wind and rain hit.

If nothing else, maybe you'll sleep better!

Tips for avoiding wind damage from Nationwide Insurance

Shingles should meet or exceed the local building code, and be rated high for wind and impact resistance.

Make sure shingles are snugly nailed down and fitted tightly together.

Inspect the roof sheathing to ensure it is securely nailed to avoid sections being peeled off by winds.

Make sure the connection between the roof and walls is tight to avoid updrafts lifting off the roof.

Check that HVAC units, skylights and pipes are tightly affixed and won't be blown off.

About walls and doors:

Is the building well sealed to prevent wind from getting in cracks and crevices and causing interior damage?

Check all siding and windows to ensure they are tightly attached.

All entry doors should be triple hinged and secured with a deadbolt lock for maximum windstorm protection.

Overhead doors should be able to withstand high winds and braced sufficiently.

Regarding outdoor areas:

Storage sheds and outbuildings should be securely anchored.

Evaluate everything you have stored outside, such as equipment, inventory and supplies, and make sure these are anchored or can be easily moved inside if a storm approaches.

Make sure dumpsters, outdoor lighting fixtures and fencing are secured. Strong windstorms can pick up items, such as waste receptacles, and turn them into destructive missiles.

Are there large shrubs and trees close to your building? Make sure they are healthy and pruned to prevent large limbs or whole trees from falling onto your building.

Outdoor signage should be tightly anchored and secure, and designed to withstand the weather in your region. Check with your insurer to see if your sign is included in your property insurance or if you need an endorsement to cover it.

Ensure your commercial property insurance covers any damage to your building or other business property caused by a windstorm.

About vehicles and fleet:

If possible, store any vehicles inside a garage or storage building.

Never park vehicles under a tree if a storm approaches.

If you must park vehicles outdoors, be aware of things that could cause damage such as branches, lampposts and power lines.

If a windstorm approaches, consider sending fleet vehicles home with approved drivers for the business to dilute the risk of damage.

Should you encounter damage from wind or rain at your personal or business property, please call SERVPRO of Virginia Beach and let us make it Like it never even happened.

757-431-1400
It's always best to call us directly