How to Prepare Your Home or Business for Storm Season

The weather in Northwest Arkansas can be unpredictable, bringing everything from heavy spring rains and severe thunderstorms to unexpected high winds. For homeowners and business owners in Fayetteville, Bentonville, Springdale, and surrounding communities, storm season poses a major threat: water damage.

Water intrusion from a storm can lead to thousands of dollars in repairs and the rapid onset of a secondary disaster—mold growth. At 911 Restoration of Northwest Arkansas, we believe in a Fresh Start, and that starts with prevention. Taking a few proactive steps now can save you immense stress and cost later.

Here is your essential checklist for preparing your property against storm-related water damage.

1. Fortify Your Roof: Your First Line of Defense

Your roof takes the brunt of heavy rain and wind. Keeping it in top condition is the single most important step in preventing water from entering your home or business.

• Inspect Shingles and Flashing: Look for any missing, cracked, or loose shingles. High winds can lift shingles, creating easy entry points for water. Check the flashing around vents, chimneys, and skylights for any signs of wear or separation.
• Clear and Maintain Gutters: Clogged gutters are a leading cause of roof and foundation damage. Debris forces rainwater to pool on your roof or spill over, soaking the fascia and flooding the ground right next to your foundation. Clean them out and ensure downspouts direct water at least five feet away from the building.

2. Check Windows and Doors for Sealing Integrity

Over time, the sealant around windows and doors can crack and deteriorate, allowing wind-driven rain to seep into your walls and window frames.

• Inspect and Re-Caulk: Walk the perimeter of your home or business and inspect all caulking and weather stripping. Apply new, high-quality exterior sealant to any visible cracks or gaps around window and door frames.
• Check Basement Windows: If you have a basement, ensure that all window wells are clear of debris and that the glass and seals are secure.

3. Improve Foundation and Yard Drainage

Water pooling near your foundation puts incredible hydrostatic pressure on your basement and slab, eventually leading to leaks and cracking.

• Grade Your Landscaping: Ensure your yard slopes away from your home’s foundation. Low spots where water collects should be filled.
• Test Your Sump Pump: If you have a sump pump, test it by pouring a bucket of water into the pit to ensure it turns on, drains correctly, and shuts off. Critically, consider a battery backup system. A storm-related power outage is often when your sump pump is needed most.

4. Prepare for the Worst-Case Scenario

No amount of preparation is 100% foolproof against a severe Arkansas storm. Having a plan in place ensures a faster, smoother recovery.

• Locate Your Water Shut-Off Valve: Know exactly where your main water shut-off valve is and how to turn it off. If a pipe bursts or a major leak occurs, shutting off the water quickly can save your property from catastrophic damage.
• Review Your Insurance: Check your policy now. Standard homeowner’s policies typically do NOT cover flood damage. If your property is in a flood-prone area, you need separate flood insurance. Review your coverage limits for water damage restoration and mold remediation.
• Document Your Property: Take photos and videos of your home or business in its pre-storm condition. This documentation is invaluable if you need to file an insurance claim later.

When a Storm Still Causes Damage, Call the Experts.

Even with the best preparation, Mother Nature can surprise us. If your home or business suffers water damage from a severe storm, the clock is ticking. Within 24-48 hours, mold can begin to grow, turning a water issue into a health hazard.

At 911 Restoration of Northwest Arkansas, we offer a true Fresh Start. Our IICRC-certified water damage restoration specialists are available 24/7, 365 days a year, ready to respond with a rapid response time. We handle the entire process:

• Emergency Water Extraction
• Drying and Dehumidification to stop mold growth
• Sanitization and Disinfection
• Mold Inspection and Remediation
• Structural Repairs and Reconstruction

Don’t let storm season catch you unprepared. Take action today, and if the worst happens, know that your local experts at 911 Restoration are here to help you rebuild.

For 24/7 Emergency Water Damage Restoration in Northwest Arkansas, call us immediately at 479.223.5148.