Wind Damage...Rare, But Costly

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

Here in the Pacific Northwest we don’t get much wind damage, but when we do, it can cause serious damages. Our coastal region is more prone to stronger winds, but our coastal region is also more prepared for strong winds…being that it’s normal out there.

The main cause for concern with high winds is power outages and fallen trees. We have all seen the men from the city in their bucket trucks trimming limbs back from power lines. Keeping tree limbs clear of power lines and falling dead trees as soon as they are noticed prevents disasters due to trees falling into homes and over power lines.

If you notice a large tree next to your house or a city power line, it’s best to inspect it regularly to insure it’s healthy. Also, you will want to trim it, or have it cut back if it starts to impede the path of the electric line. Strong winds can take down even healthy trees, so be diligent about the height of the tree and weigh the risks of letting it tower above your house.

Most windows are storm resistant now, but many older homes still have single, or double pane glass windows installed. Broken windows due to limbs and high winds are often due to older windows not being replaced when needed.

An old roof is also cause for concern when it comes to wind damage. If a roof is already rotting or falling apart in places it needs to be replaced before high winds make the likelihood of wind and water damages more costly and inconvenient.