Storm Preparedness: A Guide to Inspecting Your Building's Exterior

7/10/2023 (Permalink)

When it comes to storm preparedness, inspecting and assessing your building's exterior is a critical step in ensuring its resilience against severe weather conditions. By identifying vulnerabilities and addressing potential issues before a storm strikes, you can minimize damage and better protect your property and its occupants. In this blog, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on inspecting your building's exterior to enhance its storm readiness.

Roof Inspection

Inspect the roof for any loose, cracked, or missing shingles. Replace or repair them promptly to prevent leaks and water damage during heavy rainfall. Ensure that flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights is intact and properly sealed. Repair or replace damaged flashing and reapply sealants as needed to prevent water infiltration.

Gutters and Downspouts

Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris from gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water flow during heavy rains. Clogged gutters can lead to overflowing water, causing damage to the building's foundation and exterior walls. Inspect gutters and downspouts for loose or damaged sections. Reinforce connections and repair any leaks or cracks to prevent water from seeping into the building.

Windows and Doors

Check for Proper Sealing: Inspect windows and doors for gaps or cracks that may allow water or wind to enter. Caulk or weatherstrip as necessary to maintain a tight seal and improve energy efficiency. Strengthen windows and doors in areas prone to strong winds or flying debris by installing impact-resistant glass or storm shutters.

Siding and Exterior Walls

Look for signs of damage. Inspect siding and exterior walls for cracks, holes, or loose panels. Repair or replace damaged sections to maintain the building's structural integrity and prevent water penetration.

Evaluate Sturdiness

Assess the stability of any outdoor structures, such as fences, awnings, or sheds. Reinforce or secure them properly to prevent damage from high winds.

Trees and Landscaping

Prune tree branches that are close to the building, ensuring a safe distance to prevent potential damage during storms. Remove Dead or Weak Trees. Identify and remove any dead or weakened trees that could pose a risk to the building or nearby structures during strong winds.

Exterior Utilities

Inspect and Secure HVAC Units, ensure that HVAC units, rooftop equipment, or other exterior utilities are securely fastened and protected against high winds. 

Document and Maintain. Check the stability of exterior light fixtures, signage, antennas, or satellite dishes. Reinforce their attachments to prevent damage or dislodging. Document the building's exterior, take photographs or videos of the building's exterior, focusing on vulnerable areas and potential risks. This documentation can be helpful for insurance claims and assessing storm-related damages.

Regular Maintenance

Establish a routine maintenance schedule for inspecting the building's exterior, and address any issues promptly. Regular upkeep can prevent minor problems from escalating during a storm.

Inspecting your building's exterior is a vital component of storm preparedness. By conducting a thorough inspection, identifying vulnerabilities, and addressing potential issues, you can enhance the resilience of your property against severe weather conditions. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and reinforcing critical areas will help safeguard your building and its occupants during storms. Remember, a proactive approach to inspecting and maintaining the exterior is key to mitigating damage and ensuring the safety of your property.