5 Things to Check Right Away the Morning After a Storm

Stormy nights are best spent inside your home, where you can stay safe and dry. The wind, flying debris, and slippery surfaces make it risky to step outside. Once the sky clearies, you’ll have the opportunity to look over your home. A quick inspection of your roof, yard, and other vulnerable areas can help you catch any issues quickly. Here are five things to check for first thing in the morning after a storm.

1. Leaks from the Roof

Storms can reveal weaknesses in your home that have been developing for some time from seasonal wear and tear. One example is roof damage; heavy rain and wind can push loose shingles out of place. This exposes small cracks that were easy to ignore before, causing leaks in your home/

Walk around the exterior of your home to look for missing or curled shingles. You might also want to check for leaks and flooding in the attic. If you notice any signs of damage, schedule a storm damage roof repair with a reputable service. They’ll patch up your roof and replace compromised shingles, ensuring your roof and home stay watertight.

2. Clogged Gutters and Downspouts

Poor weather can dump leaves, twigs, and debris into your gutters. These create blockages that send water cascading down onto your siding, or worse, your home’s foundation. After the storm lets up, take a ladder and carefully inspect your gutters and downspouts. 

Check for sagging sections or overflowing areas. You might even spot standing water or debris stuck from the storm. Clean your gutters promptly to protect your home from water damage. This helps rainwater flow where it should.

3. Flooding in the Basement

Heavy rains can overwhelm drainage systems and seep into low areas of your home. That means your basement can be susceptible to flooding in bad weather. In the morning, head down there to inspect the area. Watch out for submerged outlets or exposed wiring, since water near electricity is a serious hazard. 

Check corners and behind appliances for puddles, just to be safe. If it floods in the basement, pump out the water immediately. Water can ruin furniture and flooring. Water damage can lead to mold, so take action as soon as you can.

4. Broken Window Panes

Flying debris and hail can chip or shatter windows during a storm. When the weather is calm again, walk around the house to inspect every window. Look at the corners and lower panes in particular. 

Be sure to check on the windows from outside. You might notice small cracks and loose panes that weren’t obvious from the inside. If your windows have been compromised, replace damaged glass right away. Consider installing impact windows to replace them. These are more heavy-duty and can withstand future storms. 

5. Fallen Trees in Your Outdoor Spaces

Storms can turn into a serious threat if you have hazard trees in your yard. These are trees that are weak or leaning, which makes them vulnerable to high winds. After the storm, carefully walk around your property and check on these trees. Look for downed limbs, leaning trunks, or roots lifting from the ground. 

Call a professional tree removal service to remove dangerous trees and clear debris safely. Fallen or unstable trees aren’t just a safety risk; they can also damage your home, car, and power lines, so make sure your home is clear of these before the next storm.

Endnote

A quick look all over your home can reveal damage the storm left behind. By catching problems early, you can avoid costly surprises and repairs in the future. Take the time to patch issues up now, and your house will be safe and ready for whatever the weather brings next.

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