PuroClean of Shreveport 
In Louisiana, severe weather is a fact of life. From sudden summer thunderstorms to the looming threat of hurricane season, homeowners must always be ready. While we can’t control the weather, we can control how prepared our homes are to withstand it. Taking proactive steps now is the best way to minimize or even prevent the costly storm damage Shreveport properties often suffer.
This guide outlines essential, actionable steps every homeowner should take to fortify their property. By addressing potential vulnerabilities before the clouds gather, you protect your investment and ensure your family’s safety when the next storm hits.
Exterior Inspection: Your First Line of Defense
Your home’s exterior takes the brunt of any storm. A thorough inspection can reveal weaknesses that high winds and heavy rain will exploit.
1. Roof and Gutter Maintenance
Your roof is your primary shield. Inspect it for loose or missing shingles that could be ripped off by high winds, allowing water to penetrate your attic. Equally important are your gutters. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up under your roofline or pool around your foundation, leading to significant water intrusion and structural issues often seen in storm damage Shreveport cases.
2. Trim Trees and Landscaping
Falling limbs are a major cause of roof damage and power outages. Trim back any branches that hang over your roof or are close to windows. Remove dead or dying trees entirely, as saturated soil and high winds can easily topple them onto your home.
3. Secure Outdoor Items
Patio furniture, grills, and garden decor can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. Create a plan to quickly secure or store these items when a storm warning is issued to prevent impact damage to your siding and windows.
Fortifying Vulnerable Entry Points
Windows and doors are the weakest points in your home’s envelope. Reinforcing them is critical to keeping wind and water out.
1. Check Seals and Weatherstripping
Inspect the caulking around windows and the weatherstripping on doors. Over time, these seals degrade, creating gaps where wind-driven rain can enter. Re-sealing these areas is a simple, low-cost way to prevent interior water damage.
2. Install Storm Shutters or Board-Up
If you don’t have permanent storm shutters, keep pre-cut plywood on hand to board up windows quickly. This is the most effective way to prevent glass breakage from flying debris, a common and dangerous form of storm damage Shreveport residents face.
3. Reinforce Garage Doors
Garage doors are often overlooked but can be a major point of failure. High winds can buckle a standard garage door, pressurizing your home and potentially blowing off the roof. Consider installing a bracing kit rated for high winds.
Prepare Your Emergency Plan
Physical preparation is vital, but having a plan for your family is just as important. Knowing what to do when disaster strikes reduces panic and ensures safety.
1. Build an Emergency Kit
Your kit should include non-perishable food, water (one gallon per person per day), flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, and important documents in a waterproof bag. Don’t forget supplies for pets and any necessary medications.
2. Review Your Insurance Policy
Understanding your coverage before you need to file a claim is crucial. Most standard homeowner’s policies cover wind damage but exclude flood damage. Check if you have separate flood insurance and understand your deductibles for wind and hail, which are frequent causes of storm damage Shreveport.
3. Know How to Shut Off Utilities
Know exactly where your main water, gas, and electrical shut-offs are located and how to operate them. In the event of structural damage, quickly shutting off utilities can prevent fires and secondary flooding.
When the Storm Passes: Professional Assessment
Even with the best preparation, severe weather can cause significant damage. If your home has been affected, safety is your first priority. Do not attempt to climb on your roof or handle downed power lines. A professional assessment is necessary to identify hidden issues like water intrusion behind siding or minor roof leaks that could lead to mold.
At PuroClean, we are not just experts in restoration; we are your partners in recovery. We understand the specific challenges of storm damage Shreveport brings and have the equipment and expertise to handle everything from emergency board-ups to full reconstruction.
Don’t wait until the sky turns dark. Prepare your home today. If you need assistance with storm damage assessment or restoration, trust the local experts. Contact PuroClean Shreveport 24/7 for immediate emergency response.
PuroClean of Shreveport 