Tacoma, Washington, is no stranger to the fierce winds that sweep through the region during the colder months. Between fall and early spring, Puget Sound's weather patterns bring high-speed gusts that can cause significant damage to homes, businesses, and the surrounding landscape. The city's proximity to the Sound makes it particularly vulnerable to these winds, and homeowners need to be proactive in protecting their properties. In this blog, we'll explore how Puget Sound winds affect Tacoma homes, the risks they pose, and the steps homeowners can take to safeguard their property.
How Puget Sound Weather Patterns Create Strong Winds
Wind formation over Puget Sound is driven by the interaction between cold air masses over the Pacific Ocean and the warmer inland air. This difference in temperature and pressure creates powerful wind currents that travel eastward, reaching Tacoma and other nearby areas. The winds are typically strongest in the fall and winter months, as these seasons bring the most frequent storms to the region. This period of the year can see gusts reaching speeds of 50 miles per hour or more. Certain neighborhoods in Tacoma, especially those situated on higher ground, like North Tacoma and the Stadium District, are more exposed to these winds. Hilltop locations and a lack of natural windbreaks like trees or buildings make these areas particularly vulnerable to strong gusts. As a result, homeowners in these neighborhoods often face higher risks of wind damage during stormy conditions.
Risks and Types of Damage Caused by High Winds in Tacoma
The high winds that Tacoma experiences can cause a variety of damages, ranging from minor cosmetic issues to significant structural problems. Understanding the types of damage that can occur helps homeowners prepare and take preventive measures.
- Roof and Siding Damage. Wind gusts can cause significant damage to a home’s roof, especially if the shingles are loose or worn. Strong winds can tear off shingles, lift tiles, or even damage the roof underlayment, creating potential leaks and structural issues. The siding of a home is also susceptible to wind damage, with gusts capable of cracking or detaching panels, leaving the house exposed to the elements.
- Fallen Trees and Branches. Tacoma is known for its wooded neighborhoods, and many homes are surrounded by tall trees. High winds can knock down branches or even uproot entire trees. These falling tree limbs can damage roofs, cars, fences, and power lines, posing serious hazards to homeowners.
- Broken Windows and Doors. Flying debris is another major concern during windstorms. Pieces of wood, branches, or even small outdoor objects can become airborne, leading to broken windows, shattered doors, or damaged glass features. This not only creates an immediate need for repair but can also result in water intrusion and further structural damage.
- Water Intrusion. Wind-driven rain often accompanies powerful storms. When wind weakens window seals or damages the roof, water can enter the home. This combination of wind and rain can lead to water damage, including warped wood, soaked carpets, or mold growth, which can cause long-term issues if not addressed promptly.
Steps Homeowners Can Take to Prepare for High Winds
Fortunately, there are several steps Tacoma homeowners can take to minimize the risk of wind damage and protect their homes during stormy conditions.
- Trim Trees and Secure Loose Items - Regularly trimming branches near the home is essential. Large branches that hang over roofs or near windows should be removed before they become potential projectiles in a storm. Additionally, securing outdoor furniture, garbage bins, or other loose items ensures they won’t become dangerous flying objects during high winds.
- Inspect the Roof and Windows - Before the windy season starts, homeowners should inspect their roof for loose shingles or tiles and make necessary repairs. Seals around windows should be checked for gaps, and any broken tiles or damaged roof sections should be fixed immediately. This will help prevent water intrusion and further damage during windstorms.
- Install Storm Shutters or Window Film - One effective way to reduce the risk of broken windows during a storm is by installing storm shutters or applying impact-resistant window film. These solutions offer additional protection against flying debris and can significantly reduce the chances of glass shattering.
- Review Insurance Coverage - Homeowners should review their insurance policies before the windy season hits. It's important to ensure that wind damage is covered and to clarify any exclusions related to storm damage. Adequate insurance coverage is crucial for making sure homeowners are financially protected in the event of a disaster.
Immediate Steps After a Wind Damage Incident
If wind damage does occur, taking swift and careful action is essential to prevent further damage and start the recovery process.
- Ensure Safety First - Before inspecting the damage, homeowners should prioritize safety. Avoid areas where structural damage has occurred and be cautious of downed power lines or other hazards that could pose a danger. If the damage seems severe, consider evacuating the property until it is deemed safe.
- Document the Damage - Homeowners should take clear photographs or videos of all damage. Documenting the damage thoroughly is important for insurance purposes and can help ensure a smooth claims process. This record will also help contractors assess the situation accurately.
- Contact Insurance Provider - Once the damage has been documented, homeowners should contact their insurance provider to report the damage. It's important to start the claim process as soon as possible to avoid delays in repairs. The insurance company may require specific documentation, such as photographs and estimates, so be sure to provide this information.
- Arrange for Temporary Repairs - To prevent further damage, homeowners should arrange for temporary repairs. For example, covering broken windows with plastic sheeting or tarping roof leaks can help protect the interior of the home until professional repairs can begin.
Common Wind Damage Challenges Faced by Tacoma Homeowners
After a windstorm, Tacoma homeowners may encounter a few common challenges as they work to restore their homes.
- Extended Wait Times for Repairs - After major storms, contractors are often in high demand, which can result in long wait times for repairs. Delaying repairs can worsen the damage, especially when water intrusion or mold growth is involved.
- Compounding Water Damage - Water damage from wind-driven rain can quickly escalate if not addressed promptly. Moisture can seep into walls, floors, and ceilings, leading to long-term damage and the potential for mold growth.
- Insurance Claim Denials - Some homeowners may face challenges with insurance claims, particularly if damage wasn’t adequately documented or if their policy doesn’t cover certain types of storm damage. It’s important to understand the details of the insurance policy and be thorough in the claims process.
Professional Wind Damage Restoration Services with ServiceMaster of Tacoma
When wind damage occurs, it's crucial to seek professional help. ServiceMaster of Tacoma specializes in wind and water damage restoration, offering expert services to get homes back to their pre-storm condition. Our team is trained to assess, repair, and restore homes affected by high winds, ensuring that the damage is addressed swiftly and effectively.
- Experienced Wind and Water Restoration Team - ServiceMaster of Tacoma has years of experience handling wind and water damage restoration. We provide comprehensive assessments, document the damage thoroughly for insurance claims, and offer professional repair services to restore homes to their original state.
- Reliable Emergency Services - We understand that time is critical in wind damage restoration. That's why we offer 24/7 emergency services, ensuring that we can respond quickly and mitigate further damage to your home.
- Preventative Solutions - In addition to our restoration services, we offer advice on preventing future damage. We can help identify vulnerabilities around your home and provide solutions to strengthen your property against future windstorms.
Tacoma’s windy season can cause significant damage to homes, but with the right preparation and prompt action, homeowners can minimize the impact. Whether it's securing loose items, inspecting your roof, or seeking professional restoration services, ServiceMaster of Tacoma is here to help. Contact us today to ensure your home is ready for the next storm.
