Spring storms bring heavy rains, wind and, sometimes, unwanted damage to your home. But there are things you can do to protect you, your family and your home.

Here are some frequently asked questions about spring storms — and tips for dealing with them and preventing damage.

Man trimming a tree limb near his home's roof
Trim those limbs now and they won’t harm your roof later. (DepositPhotos)

How can I prevent damage from a spring storm?

  • Walk around your home and fully inspect it. Identify hazards so you can prevent damage when the storm hits.
  • Trim tree limbs. Wet limbs’ abrasive contact with the roof can damage shingles and leave your home vulnerable. You don’t need to climb a ladder to do this — just buy a pole saw with an extension handle so you can reach just about anything!
  • Remove any vegetation, including shrubs, around the house. You need a 12-inch gap for air to circulate around the home to keep away mold, mildew and possible water damage.

Leaves in gutters
Regular roof maintenance is important, particularly during the spring. (DepositPhotos)

What’s an easier way to clean gutters?

  • Don’t dip your hand in the gutter and grip a garbage bag with your other hand — forget the storm damage; that’s an accident waiting to happen and a personal risk you don’t need to take. Instead, throw leaves right onto a tarp below.
  • Cut an old antifreeze jug and create a simple scoop so you don’t have to reach down into that mess.
  • Don’t forget downspouts! Spray your water hose down the gutters. Make sure water moves freely through them. Water should drain away from the home to prevent water damage after a storm.

Spring storms, and the damage they often bring, are inevitable. But with a plan in place, you can be confident that your home will receive the least amount of damage.

Watch Danny’s segment on The Weather Channel in the video above and share your comments below!


Further Reading

Editorial Contributors
avatar for Danny Lipford

Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

Learn More