{"id":19599,"date":"2024-11-14T23:14:55","date_gmt":"2024-11-14T23:14:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/?post_type=blog&amp;p=19599"},"modified":"2024-11-14T23:14:55","modified_gmt":"2024-11-14T23:14:55","slug":"protecting-your-home-from-severe-thunderstorms-mitigating-the-risk-of-wind-hail-and-lightning-damage","status":"publish","type":"blog","link":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/blog\/protecting-your-home-from-severe-thunderstorms-mitigating-the-risk-of-wind-hail-and-lightning-damage\/","title":{"rendered":"Protecting Your Home from Severe Thunderstorms: Mitigating the Risk of Wind, Hail, and Lightning Damage"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>While we can&#8217;t control the weather, we can take significant steps to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/blog\/storm-season-in-chicagoland-how-to-prepare-your-home-for-potential-flooding-and-wind-damage\/\">protect our homes and loved ones from the impacts of severe thunderstorms<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Extreme weather is becoming more common across the United States, and the Chicagoland region is <a href=\"https:\/\/toolkit.climate.gov\/case-studies\/climate-action-plan-chicago-region-1\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">particularly vulnerable to impacts from climate hazards due to poor stormwater infrastructure<\/a>, concrete density, and the <a href=\"https:\/\/climatecheck.com\/illinois\/chicago#:~:text=Heat%20risk%20in%20Chicago%2C%20IL&amp;text=By%202050%2C%20people%20in%20Chicago,places%20with%20cooler%20average%20temperatures.\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">increasing volatility of Lake Michigan<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As an Illinois homeowner, it&#8217;s crucial to take proactive steps to protect your property and minimize potential losses. Let\u2019s take a closer look at how <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fema.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2020-11\/fema_protect-your-property_severe-wind.pdf\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">implementing some forward-thinking measures around your home<\/a>, regular preventative maintenance, and staying vigilant can help you keep your family and treasured belongings safe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Understanding the Threats from Severe Storms<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.weather.gov\/lwx\/IdentifyThreatsSevere#:~:text=Damaging%20winds%20may%20be%20just,down%20during%20a%20severe%20thunderstorm.\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Ominous weather systems can pose a variety of hazards<\/a> for residents of the Chicago and Upper Midwest regions, which are subject to extremely cold air masses from the far north, and warm, humid air masses from the Gulf of Mexico, <a href=\"https:\/\/climatechange.chicago.gov\/climate-impacts\/climate-impacts-midwest\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">resulting in a wide range of both temperature and precipitation extremes<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before diving into protective strategies, it&#8217;s essential to understand the specific risks of violent storms:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Wind:<\/strong> High winds from thunderstorms, often accompanied by gusts over 50 mph, can tear off shingles, topple trees, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.weather.gov\/mlb\/seasonal_wind_threat\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">send debris flying into windows and walls<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hail:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nssl.noaa.gov\/education\/svrwx101\/hail\/#:~:text=If%20the%20winds%20near%20the,death%20to%20people%20and%20animals.\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Hailstones can range in size from peas to golf balls or larger<\/a>. They can dent vehicles, shatter windows, and cause significant damage to siding and roofing materials.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lightning: <\/strong>A single lightning strike can spark fires, damage electrical systems, and even <a href=\"https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/science\/thunderstorm\/Lightning-damage\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">cause injury to occupants<\/a> if the proper precautions aren\u2019t taken.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Heavy\/ extreme precipitation: <\/strong>Rainfall totals of 3 to 5 inches or more can fall quickly during a major weather event, <a href=\"https:\/\/cnt.org\/urban-flooding\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">overloading storm drains and causing localized urban flooding<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tornados:<\/strong> In July of 2024, <a href=\"https:\/\/abc7chicago.com\/post\/illinois-tornado-damage-today-clean-begins-after-storms\/15062366\/#:~:text=One%20tree&#039;s%20entire%20root%20system,Tree%20Experts%20Owner%20Chris%20Edmonds.\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Chicagoland and northwest Indiana saw widespread damage<\/a> after a strong storm unleashed at least 11 twisters in the region.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Each of these dangers requires different strategies for mitigation. Let\u2019s break down the best ways to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nahb.org\/other\/consumer-resources\/disaster-preparation-and-recovery-resources\/Protect-Your-Home-from-Severe-Weather\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">safeguard your property against wind, hail, and lightning<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fortifying Your Home&#8217;s Exterior<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Taking steps to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nationwide.com\/privateclient\/loss-prevention\/articles\/seven-tips-for-protecting-your-home-from-wind-and-hail-damage\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">protect your home before a storm hits<\/a> can significantly reduce the risk of damage and keep your household safe.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Roofing and Siding<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Start by reinforcing your roof, which is <a href=\"https:\/\/thebossmagazine.com\/protect-your-roof-from-wind-damage\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">your home&#8217;s first line of defense against the elements<\/a>. Shingles or tiles can easily be lifted by strong winds, creating openings for water to enter your home.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.architecturaldigest.com\/reviews\/roofing\/what-is-a-roof-inspection\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Regularly inspect for loose or damaged shingles<\/a>, reinforce roof sheathing with additional nails or extra-strength construction adhesive, and consider utilizing impact-resistant roofing materials rated for high winds and hail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Installing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.iko.com\/blog\/what-are-hurricane-ties-and-how-do-you-install-them\/#:~:text=Hurricane%20ties%20are%20also%20called,truss%20and%20the%20wall%20plate.\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">hurricane straps or clips<\/a> can also help secure your roof to the house frame, reducing the risk of wind damage. Inspect your home&#8217;s siding for any loose or damaged sections. Repair or replace as necessary to maintain a strong barrier against wind and water infiltration. Fiber cement siding or engineered wood products offer excellent protection and longevity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Landscaping<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/gardenprofessors.com\/preparing-your-landscape-for-extreme-weather\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Trees and flying yard debris are common causes of wind damage<\/a>. A fallen branch or tree can crash into your home, causing structural damage and breaking windows.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Trim back branches that are too close to your house, and <a href=\"https:\/\/elmhousetreeservices.co.uk\/how-to-prevent-tree-damage-during-storms\/#:~:text=Regular%20Tree%20Maintenance,from%20falling%20and%20causing%20damage.\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">consider removing any trees that are dead, diseased, or at risk of falling<\/a> during a storm. Prune trees and remove dead branches, and don\u2019t forget to check your outdoor lighting and move patio furniture and potted plants to a protected area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have young\/ vulnerable trees with weaker root systems, you may want to consider staking them when a storm approaches to provide additional support. Fresh mulch around trees and shrubs improves drainage and moves water away from buildings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Focus on securing exterior features to minimize potential projectiles and fortify weak points.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Drainage<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Preventing water accumulation during heavy rains is essential to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/blog\/flood-damage-preparedness-steps-to-take-before-the-next-storm\/\">avoiding flooding in your home<\/a>. Regularly clean gutters and downspouts, grade your landscape to direct water away from your foundation, and you may want to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thisoldhouse.com\/sidewalks\/21016375\/how-to-install-a-dry-well\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">invest in a French drain or dry well for problem areas<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Guarding Against Lightning Strikes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Lightning strikes are relatively rare but can have devastating consequences. They can cause house fires, fry electrical wiring, and destroy electronics and major appliances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A lightning protection system is designed to direct lightning strikes safely into the ground, preventing the bolt from damaging your home. This system includes air terminals, conductors, grounds, and surge suppressors that work together to channel the electrical current away from your home.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Only experienced and reputable lightning protection <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statefarm.com\/simple-insights\/residence\/lightning-protection-for-your-home\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">contractors listed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and certified by the Lightning Protection Institute (LPI)<\/a> should install these systems.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you know a thunderstorm is imminent, unplugging appliances and electronics can be a simple but effective way to avoid damage from lightning surges. This includes items such as televisions, computers, chargers, and anything else that is plugged into the electrical system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Prepare for Impact<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Hailstones can <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.illinois.edu\/weather\/hail\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">vary in size from small pebbles to golf balls or even larger<\/a>. These dense, icy pellets can dent siding, wreck automobiles, and severely damage roofs, leading to moisture intrusion and other long-term issues if left unaddressed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Windows are another weak point when hail strikes. Traditional glass can easily shatter under the pressure of hefty hailstones, but storm shutters or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kin.com\/blog\/impact-resistant-windows\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">impact-resistant windows provide an extra layer of protection<\/a>. These solutions not only help defend against hail but can also mitigate wind and debris damage during severe storms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If possible, park your vehicles in a garage or under a carport during severe weather. For those without covered parking, you may want to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jdpower.com\/cars\/shopping-guides\/what-is-a-hail-proof-car-cover\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">use hail protection blankets designed for vehicles<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Plan Ahead<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Protecting your home from increasingly extreme weather requires a multifaceted approach combining structural reinforcements, regular maintenance, and smart preparation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Review your homeowner&#8217;s insurance policy annually to ensure you have adequate coverage for storm-related damages. Talk to your agent about additional riders for specific risks like water damage or sewer backup if needed. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.iii.org\/article\/do-i-need-flood-insurance-for-my-home\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Remember, standard homeowners\u2019 insurance policies DO NOT cover flooding<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Be sure to thoroughly <a href=\"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/blog\/documenting-property-damage-for-insurance-claims\/\">document your home&#8217;s contents and condition with photos or videos<\/a>, storing this information in a safe, off-site location or cloud storage. Take advantage of modern technology to stay ahead of severe weather, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/blog\/emergency-preparedness-tips-for-the-hurricane-season\/\">develop and practice an emergency plan with your family<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the unfortunate event that your home does sustain damage from a severe thunderstorm, don&#8217;t hesitate to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/contact\/\">reach out to the professional disaster recovery specialists at PuroClean of Evanston!<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>While we can&#8217;t control the weather, we can take significant steps to protect our homes and loved ones from the impacts of severe thunderstorms.&nbsp; Extreme weather is becoming more common<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":728,"featured_media":19600,"template":"","blog-category":[18],"class_list":["post-19599","blog","type-blog","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","blog-category-property-restoration"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog\/19599","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/blog"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/728"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog\/19599\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/19600"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=19599"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"blog-category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog-category?post=19599"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}