Hopefully, it is several years before a storm of this magnitude attacks the region again. What are some steps homeowners can take to protect themselves? Here are 5 things to keep in mind.
Be Safe
First and foremost, make sure you and your family are safe. This is of top priority. Homes can come and go, but your family is precious. Keeping your family safe goes for any type of weather disaster, whether large or small. Keep the following tips in mind:
- Stay away from downed power lines
- Never use an electrical device if there is excessive flooding present
- Use caution around damaged buildings and fallen trees
- Take a clear assessment of the area before stepping outside the home
Assess the Damage
Regardless of how sturdy a roofing system is, it just can’t compete with some of the major storms that present themselves. Take as many pictures as you can of your roof when conditions are appropriate. Use caution, and wear appropriate footwear to keep your steps sure. If you are able, get a video as well. It is better to have more pictures and videos than not enough.
Make Temporary Fixes
Is there water leaking into your kitchen from holes in the roof? If your home is not flooded, place five-gallon buckets, pails, or pots under the dripping water to collect it and eliminate more damage by leaking water. If there is minimal shingle damage, a tarp can be placed over the area until it can be repaired properly.
Contact Your Local Roofing Contractor
Always trust a local company to assist you with roof repairs after a storm. Avoid placing your trust, and money, in fly-by-night, storm-chasing roofing companies. Unfortunately, they tend to prey on the devastated and don’t deliver product material and service as a local contractor will. If anything goes wrong with the roof after the installation, the storm chasers have already left town and can’t be reached. A local residential roofing company can quickly come and assess the situation and resolve any complications.
Know Your Insurance Policy
Your policy will vary from the policy your neighbor has. Each company is different and handles devastations differently. Be sure you have your policy in a safe place, and can get to it readily if you are in need. It is wise to review your policy before a storm arrives and update or alter any areas to present the best outcome following your particular budget.
When storms arise, RCB Roofing is a local company you can trust to help get you back on your feet and into a safe and secure home. We are RCB Roofing in Charleston. We stand behind the quality products we choose and the exceptional craftsmanship we offer with amazing warranties. We strive for your 100% complete satisfaction! We will do our best to fix the devastation from nature’s fury. We will guide you through the process of restoring and rebuilding your roof to its former glory. We promise to treat you like family and address every small detail with care and precision. Contact us when storms ravage the area, and we will help take the stress out of the situation.