Storms can unleash their fury in a matter of minutes, leaving behind a chaotic scene of debris, fallen trees, and damaged outdoor structures. Cleaning up after a storm is essential not just for aesthetics but for safety and to prevent further damage to your property. Here’s a comprehensive guide to outside storm damage cleanup that will help you restore your outdoor spaces efficiently and safely.
1. Prioritize Safety First
Before starting any cleanup efforts, ensure your safety and that of anyone helping:
- Inspect for Hazards: Look for downed power lines, large broken branches, and unstable structures that could pose a danger. Never attempt to move or touch downed power lines—contact your utility company immediately.
- Wear Protective Gear: Equip yourself with heavy-duty gloves, sturdy boots, long sleeves, and eye protection to prevent injuries from sharp debris or hazardous materials.
- Be Cautious of Wildlife: Displaced wildlife like snakes or insects might be present in debris piles or fallen trees. Approach cautiously and be prepared to call animal control if necessary.
2. Assess the Damage
Once the area is secure, take a moment to assess the extent of the damage:
- Document the Damage: Take photos and notes of all visible damage, including fallen trees, damaged fences, broken outdoor furniture, and roof damage. This documentation will be crucial for insurance claims.
- Check for Structural Damage: Inspect outdoor structures such as sheds, garages, gazebos, or pergolas for any signs of damage. Look for loose or missing shingles, broken windows, or leaning walls.
3. Clear Debris
Debris removal is often the most labor-intensive part of outside storm damage cleanup:
- Start with the Basics: Begin by picking up smaller debris like branches, leaves, and trash scattered across your yard. Use rakes, shovels, and wheelbarrows to collect and dispose of this debris.
- Focus on Large Items: For larger items like fallen trees or big branches, you may need a chainsaw. If you’re inexperienced with chainsaws, consider hiring a professional tree removal service to avoid injury.
- Separate Green Waste: If possible, separate organic materials (like leaves, branches, and tree trunks) from non-organic debris. Many municipalities offer green waste recycling or pickup services.
4. Inspect and Repair Damage to Structures
Outdoor structures often bear the brunt of storm damage:
- Roofs and Gutters: Check roofs for missing shingles, leaks, or damaged flashing. Clean out gutters clogged with debris to prevent water damage during subsequent rains.
- Fences: Inspect fences for any sections that may have been blown over or damaged. Repair or replace broken posts, panels, and gates to restore security and privacy.
- Outdoor Furniture and Decor: Examine outdoor furniture, grills, and decorative items for damage. Salvage what you can and dispose of or recycle items that are beyond repair.
5. Address Water Damage and Flooding
If your property experienced flooding or water pooling, it’s critical to address it quickly to prevent further damage:
- Drain Standing Water: Use pumps, wet/dry vacuums, or buckets to remove standing water from your yard or outdoor spaces. Ensure proper drainage to avoid water stagnation, which can attract pests.
- Dry Out Structures: If water infiltrated outdoor buildings, garages, or sheds, set up fans or dehumidifiers to dry out the spaces. This helps prevent mold growth and further structural damage.
- Check for Erosion: Inspect the landscape for signs of soil erosion caused by heavy rainfall. Add soil or mulch where needed to stabilize the ground and prevent future issues.
6. Tree and Plant Care
Storms can be particularly harsh on trees and plants, and proper care is essential for their recovery:
- Prune Damaged Branches: Trim any broken, split, or hanging branches to prevent further injury to the tree and reduce the risk of falling limbs.
- Check Tree Stability: If a tree is leaning or its roots are exposed, it may need to be staked or removed. Consulting with an arborist can help determine the best course of action.
- Care for Flooded Plants: If your garden or lawn was flooded, remove silt and debris from the base of plants. Waterlogged plants may benefit from additional aeration of the soil to help roots breathe.
7. Dispose of Waste Properly
Proper disposal of storm debris is important for environmental and community health:
- Follow Local Guidelines: Check with your local waste management service for guidelines on storm debris disposal. Many areas offer special pickups or drop-off sites after major storms.
- Composting: Organic debris like leaves, grass, and small branches can often be composted. This is a great way to recycle green waste and nourish your garden.
- Recycling: Separate recyclable materials like metals, plastics, and glass from other debris. Take them to a recycling center if curbside pickup isn’t available.
8. Plan for the Future
Once the immediate cleanup is complete, take steps to minimize future storm damage:
- Trim Trees Regularly: Keep trees and shrubs well-trimmed to reduce the risk of falling branches during a storm.
- Secure Loose Items: Store outdoor furniture, grills, and decor securely or bring them indoors before a storm hits.
- Invest in Storm-Resistant Features: Consider installing storm-resistant windows, reinforcing fences, or adding drainage solutions to protect your property.
Conclusion
Outside storm damage cleanup can be a daunting task, but with careful planning and a systematic approach, you can restore your outdoor spaces and protect your property from future storms. Prioritize safety, document the damage for insurance purposes, and don’t hesitate to call in professionals for particularly challenging tasks. By taking these steps, you’ll not only recover from the storm but also strengthen your property against whatever nature throws your way in the future.
