4 Steps for Mitigating Wind Damage

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

A small roof leak can quickly turn into a huge hole.

Four Steps to Wind Damage Mitigation

High winds from thunderstorms, tornadoes and hurricanes can turn small objects and debris into dangerous projectiles in Estero Island, FL. When these items hit buildings, they can cause a roof leak and broken windows. With some planning and preparation, structural damage can be kept to a minimum.

1. Maintain the Landscaping

Trees, shrubs and decorative items such as fountains and planters can turn into missiles in high winds. Keep the greenery trimmed and secure the fountains and planters. If tying them down isn’t an option, move them inside during storm season. This can prevent them from being hurled against the building or through windows.

2. Cover the Windows and Doors

Keep a supply of plywood on site to protect the windows from flying debris. It is strong enough to protect the glass from most large items and small debris such as gravel may embed itself in the surface, without penetrating all the way. Screws can be more effective than nails when securing the plywood to the building.

3. Reinforce Weak Areas

For buildings that have loading docks or interior parking for company vehicles, the garage doors may be susceptible to damage caused by debris. Strengthen glider wheel tracks and add braces across the back of the door to minimize damage. Plywood can be used to cover windows and bolster the braces.

4. Inspect the Roof

As materials age, they weaken. This can result in a roof leak or missing shingles during storm season. Use tarps and plywood as temporary measures to protect weak areas and prevent an already damaged roof from getting worse.

Severe storms can devastate a business in Estero Island, FL. Untrimmed trees and downed powerlines can result in a damaged roof. A minor roof leak can become a gaping hole. If a severe weather event does strike, a disaster recovery team can help you keep downtime to a minimum, whether a passing thunderstorm or a significant hurricane caused the damage.