Storm damage to your home can occur unexpectedly, sometimes from a storm that is predicted to be mild. When the unfortunate happens and your home has damage upon its roof or windows, or if trees are downed in your yard, you will need to work quickly and smartly to have your home restored. Here are some recommended steps to take after experiencing storm damage to your home and yard.

Protect Yourself

Once the storm has passed and you realize your home has sustained damage, you need to be careful moving through your home or venturing outside. If you have been away from your home during the storm, it can be helpful to hire a professional to inspect your home for gas leaks, loose electrical wiring, broken glass, and exposed nails, as these can pose a danger to you. However, if you do enter your home, wear protective clothing, such as boots, work gloves, and long sleeves, and pants. 

Also stay away from any downed power lines in your yard, as they are likely live with electricity. Also, avoid trees that have fallen across your home's roof or another structure. An unstable downed tree can put you at risk of injury if it were to fall on you. Call your insurance company to begin the claims process and find out if your insurance recommends you to use a specific restoration company to handle the repairs.

Hire a Repair Contractor

After ensuring your own safety, you can begin the repair process. If your roof has collapsed or sustained wind damage, contact a roofing professional. A restoration company your insurance may recommend is a good start to hiring a professional for the repairs. Just be sure you document any damage by taking photos. 

Until the repairs can be completed, you or the restoration company should cover any holes in your roof with a tarp. Broken windows need covered with plywood or other covering. If any other rain comes through your neighborhood, it can cause additional damage to your home and worsen the repairs.

Prevent Against Mold Growth

Mold growth from any flooding or rainfall entering your home should be your first priority. Mold can begin to grow upon surfaces in your home after as little as one to two days of moisture exposure. Once mold has begun growing, you need to fully disinfect the affected surfaces and remove any surfaces that cannot be disinfected, such as drywall, insulation, upholstered furniture, bedding, and carpeting.

When mold has not begun to grow, open your home's windows or turn on your home's heating system and direct fans on the wet surfaces to begin the process to dry out the moisture. Circulation of the air, ventilation, and removing moisture from the air are the keys to drying out your home's interior. Contact a service, like Arkansas Restoration Services Inc, for more assistance.

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