Set in the heart of ‘tornado alley,” Oklahoma City residents are no strangers to battening down the hatches and weathering a storm. However, sometimes, even experienced storm preppers need the help of water damage restoration Oklahoma City companies.
Along with having the contact details of a reliable restoration service, there are steps homeowners can take when a storm tears through their land. Having a plan of action and the right support can get your home and outdoor spaces looking as good as new in no time.
What Kind of Damage Can Storms Do to Outdoor Spaces?
Not only can storms strike homes, but they can also cause chaos in outdoor spaces such as barns, greenhouses, and garden areas. While damage to these is less disastrous than damage to your home, repairs still need to be carried out. Leaving outdoor spaces in a poor state after a storm can pose a hazard, increasing the likelihood of fires, home invasions, and accidents.
Fencing panels
Storms most commonly knock over fencing panels, which leaves your home open to invasion from uninvited visitors. Broken fencing panels make it easier for thieves to enter the premises, and so as a security measure, these should be quickly repaired after a storm.
Decking and patios
Large falling objects swept up in the storm can hit patios and decking, breaking slabs and boards. Leaving outdoor flooring broken and uneven puts your family at risk of accidents such as trips and falls.
Garden and plant life
If you are green-fingered, a hurricane or severe storm can destroy all your hard work in the garden. Storms can rip trees and shrubs from their roots and annihilate your fruit and vegetable crops. Strong winds also contribute to soil erosion, which impacts the land’s fertility and your ability to grow any greenery after the storm.
Outdoor furniture and features
Our outdoor areas are seen as an extension of our home. More and more people are investing in comfy and stylish outdoor furniture to decorate their gardens. The problem is when a storm hits, and there is no time to bring in outdoor furniture.
Not only can the furniture itself break during a severe storm, they can also be whipped up in the winds and crash into your windows, causing even more damage.
Steps to Take After Storm Damage to Outdoor Spaces
So, when a storm hits, what do you do? Here’s a quick guide to stop you from stressing out after a bout of wild weather.
Assess the damage, safely!
First, make sure that setting foot in the area is safe. Storms can dislodge roof tiles and uproot trees. Once a storm has settled down, the danger is not over. Ensure that there are no hazards around before you attempt to check out the damage.
Begin basic clear up
Glove up and wear protective gear to reduce the risk of cuts from broken glass and other sharp objects. Start small by clearing up manageable debris. Leave heavier items to the experts or use the right equipment for the job. Drain away storm water, as this provides a breeding ground for bacteria and pesky mosquitoes.
Document the damage
For insurance purposes, you will need to document the damage. Make sure that you take photographs and videos of the damage to your outdoor spaces, as this will help to support your claim.
Repair vs. replace
Now it’s time to decide what to keep and repair and when to replace. Some broken outdoor furniture or features, such as fountains or benches, can be repaired if they have only experienced mild levels of damage. However, if your beloved outdoor furniture is now in matchstick-like pieces, you’re better off replacing the item.
Check drainage
To prevent water damage as a result of the storm’s destructive powers, make sure that there is adequate drainage around your property and land. Poor drainage allows rainwater to gather and cause flooding in and around your home.
When to Call in the Professionals
If the storm damage to outdoor areas is not that extensive, it may be doable to carry out the cleanup and repairs solo. However, if the damage is overwhelming and you don’t know where to start, it’s time to call in the professionals. Expert restoration services will help you feel less stressed about the situation.
Another reason why you might be better off with expert help is that the extent of the damage may be deceptive. Storms can cause structural damage to outbuildings and uproot large trees. While the damage might be undetectable by the amateur eye, it can develop into a more serious issue in the future.
Applying an expert touch to storm damage restoration may prove more cost-effective in the long-run. Not only are repairs carried out quickly and efficiently, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor spaces once again, but any potential issues can also be rectified and precautionary measures taken to better prepare your home for the next natural disaster.
