A major insurance carrier recently surveyed property owners to find out which weather risks concerned them most. Ninety percent of respondents feared one threat in particular. What was it? The answer, as Bob Dylan warbled, is blowing in the wind.
“Severe winds worry owners because this powerful force of nature damages structures and property every day,” says Adriana Young, Owner, Paul Davis Restoration of Central Dallas, Fort Worth, Texas. “High winds can obliterate almost anything humans have ever constructed. They are dangerous and unpredictable. Being in North Texas, we have a higher rate of storm damage. That’s because we are located between 2 climates and the southern part of tornado alley. Paul Davis Restoration responds quickly to prevent further damage and help property owners recover.”
What can property owners do to reduce their chances of windy mayhem?
Strengthen exteriors: Inspect building envelopes carefully, testing gutter attachments and noting loose materials like shingles. Repair roofs, anchor gutters, and reinforce entryways and windows. If your property features flat roofs, firmly anchor roof-mounted systems like HVAC ductwork and air handlers. If large items detach, uncontrolled tumbling across square roofs inflicts extensive damage.
Trim bushes and trees: Remove branches that could strike buildings if they fall and remove diseased or unstable trees that could topple in a windstorm. Trim back shrubbery so it does not contact building exteriors if whipped by wind.
Secure outdoor items: Inspect sign mountings, securely anchor benches and tables, and secure waste containers. Any of these – even heavy items immovable without machinery – can become pushed or blown projectiles in high winds.Â
Safeguard outdoor assets: If you store inventory or high-value items outside – fleet vehicles, pallets, supplies, equipment – shield them with indoor storage, garaging or storm fencing. Even temporary storage during forecasted wind events or risky seasons can help.
Review coverage and response plans: Contact your insurance agent to evaluate your coverage for wind damage. For commercial properties, contact Paul Davis Restoration for a free Emergency Preparedness Plan. Plans comprise information specific to your property, such as emergency contacts, preferred trade and supplier partners, mechanical room information, locations of shutoff switches and a variety of additional details you will need in a wind emergency.
Ready to protect your property against severe winds? Paul Davis Restoration is standing by: call 844-215-7898 today.
