Between 1980 and 2021, 310 weather disasters caused damages worth a billion dollars or more. Out of these, tropical cyclones have caused the most destruction. They cost over $1.1 trillion in damages, with an average cost of $20.5 billion per event.
These acts of God can leave homeowners with the daunting task of figuring out how to restore everything to its original state. Immediate repairs are costly. It can take you back an average of $11,000, depending on where you’re located.
Areas like New Jersey experience an average of 25 to 30 storms a year. It’s best to be prepared for such occasions so you can anticipate the costs.
Although some homeowners may want to tackle the repairs themselves, storm damage restoration is a complex process. It requires the help of professionals. Sure, you can do some simple repairs. However, storm damage can often cause extensive damage requiring expert knowledge and experience.
So how do you know when to ring the bell and call in the experts? Read on.
When to Hire Restoration Professionals
Here are the signs it’s time to hire restoration professionals.
Extensive Roof Damage
Roof damage can happen due to high winds or hail, one of the most common types of storm damage. It’s not just about the missing shingles but also the underlying structure.
A professional such as a roofing contractor in Freehold, NJ, can identify and repair the damage, ensuring your roof is safe and secure. Ignoring roof damage can lead to more severe problems like water leaks and mold growth, so it’s best to act quickly.
Severe Water Leak
Water damage can happen quickly and lead to mold growth and compromise the structural integrity of your home. Even a small leak can cause significant damage if left untreated.
Water damage can spread quickly and cause extensive damage, even as much as affecting the structural integrity of your home. Water damage, in case you don’t know, can cause foundation issues. So it’s best to give the task to the experts.
When water from outside your foundation puts pressure on the foundation walls, it can cause them to crack.
Significant Insulation Issues
Insulation is critical to your home’s construction, providing a barrier against the outdoor elements and maintaining the desired temperature inside. In a storm, insulation damage can occur due to various factors like wind and water.
It’s essential to repair insulation immediately after a storm because damaged insulation can lead to various problems. For example, when insulation is wet, it loses its insulating properties. The moisture buildup promotes the growth of mold and mildew, which can be a health hazard.
It can also cause structural damage to the home. Moisture and water can seep into the walls and ceiling. This can damage the electrical system and other important components of the house.
Insulation damage can lead to higher energy bills. The heating and cooling system has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. This extra strain on the HVAC system can cause premature wear and tear.
Obvious Structural Defect
A significant structural defect can severely threaten your home’s safety and stability. Some common examples of structural damage include cracked or bowed walls and foundation damage. Collapsed ceilings are also an obvious structural defect.
Address significant structural defects immediately after a storm because they can worsen over time. When ignored, a structural defect can lead to more severe damage and even cause the house to become uninhabitable.
For instance, a cracked or weakened foundation can lead to shifting or settling. This will cause the walls and floors to become uneven or collapse.
Structural damage can compromise the safety of your home, posing a danger to the occupants.
Additionally, structural damage can weaken the house’s structural integrity, making it susceptible to collapse during future storms or even earthquakes.
Immediate Insurance Support
Storm damage restoration professionals can assess the damage caused by the storm and document it thoroughly. This documentation includes photographs and videos. This also includes drafting written reports that provide detailed information on the extent of the damage. They also pinpoint which parts of the home have been damaged and how to repair them.
After assessing the damage, storm damage restoration professionals can provide detailed repair estimates. These estimates include the cost of materials, labor, and any other expenses involved in the repair process.
Restoration professionals can act as a liaison between homeowners and their insurance companies. They can provide the insurance adjuster with the necessary documentation and estimates, ensuring the claims process is smooth and efficient.
Key Takeaways
Knowing when to hire a professional for storm damage restoration can save you time and money. Storm damage can be extensive and complicated to repair. It’s often best to hire a professional to ensure the job is done correctly. Remember, your home is a significant investment. Address issues after a storm to protect its value and the safety of you and your family.
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