As the climate keeps changing, we're seeing tornadoes pop up more often in the East and South over the past 20-30 years. Pittsburgh usually gets about six tornadoes a year, but in 2024, we've already seen over double that. May alone brought us nine tornadoes, the highest number since 1985. Plus, we're getting hit with more severe thunderstorms and heavy rain, which ups the chances of your home taking a hit.
So, it's a smart move to walk around your place and reinforce anything that looks like it might not hold up.
Why You Need to Prepare Your Pittsburgh Home
Prepping your home for thunderstorms and rough weather has always been wise. 'Renovating my house to withstand extreme weather can also raise its value if I want to sell my house fast in Pittsburgh,' says a real estate expert.
"In 2023, there were 21 severe weather events, each costing over a billion dollars," says the lead research meteorologist. Overall, severe storms caused nearly $60 billion in insured losses last year. Even after adjusting for inflation, losses from 10 to 20 years ago averaged below $20 billion. Extreme storms are not just more frequent but also more intense, affecting a larger part of the country.
How To Prepare Your Pittsburgh House For Severe Weather
1. Clean Your Gutters
Keep your gutters clear and draining properly. Severe weather can bring heavy rain and hail quickly. Blocked gutters can cause rainwater to pool and not flow away from your house, leading to flooding and water damage.
2. Visit Your Basement
If you don't have a basement, at least you don't have to worry about it flooding. If you do, ensure your sump pump works and has backup power. Check with your insurer to see if you're covered for sump pump failures. You might need a "sump pump endorsement" to cover such damages.
3. Examine Your Roof
Regularly check your aging roof for missing shingles, holes, or other damage that can cause leaks. Leaky roofs can lead to stains, mold, and higher energy bills. Even small holes invite pests and water, causing structural damage. Periodic inspections are essential since winds as low as 50 mph can damage a roof.
4. Trim Your Trees
While it may seem like an unnecessary expense, trimming your trees can prevent them from damaging your home. Ensure no limbs hang over the roof and remove dead branches. This not only protects your home but also improves your yard's appearance and your trees' health.
5. Shore Up Your Windows
Windows and skylights are the most vulnerable parts of your home during severe thunderstorms. Storm or hurricane shutters can protect against flying debris, rain, hail, and strong winds. Hurricane shutters cost an average of $3,682, with storm shutters ranging from $80 to $520 per window. When a storm is near, close and secure shutters or, if you don't have them, use blinds, shades, or curtains. During a storm, stay away from windows that might shatter from wind or debris.
Is Your House Too Old or Too Costly to Renovate?
No worries! Sell your house to cash home buyers in Pittsburgh. At 412 Houses, we buy houses in Pittsburgh in any condition for a great price. Our process is simple and hassle-free. With us, you don't need to stress about fixing your home, hosting open houses, paying commissions, or covering closing costs.
Author Bio:
The author is one of the top cash home buyers in Pittsburgh, committed to offering fair all-cash offers to homeowners in Pittsburgh and surrounding Pennsylvania areas amidst the challenging real estate market. Visit https://www.412houses.com/ to know more.
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