5 Ways to Prevent Wind Damage in Pocatello, ID

Eastern Idaho is no stranger to strong winds. In the last few years, there have been wind storms so strong, including one near Pocatello that hit 40mph and lifted a shed off of the ground; another wind storm that same year hit gusts of 45mph that even knocked down a tree! Wind damage can cause a wide range of destruction to property, with everything from broken windows and tree branches, to more severe damage to areas like one’s roof, garage, or car. 

While the Pocatello/Chubbuck area of Eastern Idaho may never experience hurricane-level wind speeds, knowing that the area is susceptible to wind damage raises the question: is there any way for homeowners to protect their home against wind potential wind damage? The answer is YES. Here are some of the things Eastern Idaho residents can do to better prepare their homes and businesses for a future wind storm.

1. Check for Weak Spots. There are four areas on a property that agencies like the American Red Cross, FEMA, and the National Association of Homebuilders all agree should be checked for possible weaknesses: the roof, windows, doors, and garage door. It would be wise to check these areas of your home at least once a year. Look for cracks, breaks, and holes; loose nails, bolts, and fastenings; and roof trusses, braces, and so forth.

2. Take a Look at Siding. Simple and to the point: make sure your home’s siding is securely attached to your home’s walls.

3. Inspect Detached Structures. Detached garages, sheds, and large dog houses should all be securely anchored to the ground. Also, during wind storms, be aware of the locations of things like dumpsters and garbage cans. And while some things may be seasonal (like yard decorations), be aware of these as well, and make sure when they are on display, be sure that they are securely planted in the ground or tied down. The same goes for fence posts, light posts, grills, and outdoor furniture.

4. Yard Maintenance. Large trees or bushes near homes and businesses ought to be regularly and well-trimmed to prevent possible damage to structures, vehicles, and people during a potentially heavy wind storm.

5. Be Informed and Take Action. It’s wise to pay attention to weather forecasts, as well as to take notice of the weather happening around you. If there’s a chance for high winds on any given day, take the time to tie down or put away items outside that could potentially cause damage if they were to get caught up during a storm.

Wind storms can be their own entity but are often associated with thunderstorms in the spring and summer or heavy snowstorms in the winter. This can lead to further property damage issues as a result of the following:

• Rain, especially heavy rain, can lead to flooding and other forms of water damage.
• Hail can cause damage to your property’s roof, siding, shingles, windows, and even to your vehicles.
• Lightning can potentially strike tree branches, which can then cause damage to structures, and is also a common cause of wild and structural fires.
• Snow often leads to dangerous driving conditions on the road, but it can also lead to property damage, such as water damage or roof collapse.

While wind damage may not seem like a very common problem, wind storms are actually responsible for more damage in the United States than tornadoes are each year. Living in an area like Eastern Idaho, where there are many wide, open spaces can add to the potential for damages caused by incredibly high wind speeds and strong gusts of wind. Hopefully, these tips give Eastern Idaho residents some ideas for protecting their property, as well as their loved ones.

If your Pocatello area home or business does suffer damage as a result of a heavy wind storm, however, you’re in luck: Elite Restoration has 24/7 emergency service to assist you with any and all damage left behind after the storm. Our qualified technicians can provide effective wind and storm damage repair at a reasonable price. We’ll even work with your insurance agency through the process!