Traverse City summers are breathtaking, but they don’t come without risks. The season often brings summer storms that can threaten commercial properties. With strong winds, heavy rain, and hailstorms, businesses may face structural damage, leaks, and safety hazards. One example was the storm that hit Northern Michigan in July 1995. It brought heavy wind-driven rain, widespread power outages, and extensive damage to local buildings, leaving many businesses scrambling for cleanup and restoration.
Preparing for these weather events is crucial for business owners to protect their property, employees, and customers. By taking a few preventative measures and having an emergency response plan in place, you can reduce your risk of damage and recover more quickly if disaster strikes. Here, we’ll break down actionable steps for three major storm-related challenges: wind, rain, and hail.
Protecting Against Wind Damage
Summer storms in Traverse City can bring strong and unpredictable winds. These gusts can rip through buildings, toss outdoor furniture, and send debris flying. Here’s how to prepare your property for high winds effectively.
Reinforce Your Building’s Exterior
Inspect your building’s roof, siding, windows, and doors for any weak points. Loose shingles, cracks, or gaps make your property more vulnerable to wind damage. Repairs and reinforcements, like storm shutters or impact-resistant glass, can add an important layer of protection.
Secure Outdoor Items
Wind can turn patio furniture, trash cans, and signs into dangerous projectiles. Remove or securely anchor loose items around your property before a storm hits to reduce potential damage.
Trim Nearby Trees
Overhanging branches or unstable trees near your commercial space pose a risk during storms. Proper tree maintenance, such as removing dead or loose limbs, can prevent them from crashing into your building.
Emergency Response Plan for Wind Damage
No matter how prepared you are, some circumstances are beyond control. A detailed emergency plan, including the contact information of restoration experts like ServiceMaster by Fuson - Traverse City, will ensure a quick response when needed.
Preparing for Heavy Rainfall
Traverse City storms are often accompanied by heavy rainfall, leading to flooding, water intrusion, and moisture-related issues. Preventing rain damage involves keeping water out of your property and managing its flow effectively.
Inspect and Maintain Gutters and Drains
Clogged gutters and drains can lead to overflowing water and leaks. Regularly clean and inspect these systems to ensure they’re functioning properly. If rainwater isn’t directed away from your building, it can infiltrate walls or pool near your foundation.
Seal Cracks and Leaks
Rain can easily enter your property through small cracks or gaps in walls, windows, and doors. Conduct a thorough inspection and use weatherproof caulking or other sealants to address these vulnerabilities.
Elevate Electrical Systems
Flooding is a significant concern during intense rain. Prevent water damage to your electrical systems by elevating appliances, outlets, and cords.
Emergency Restoration for Water Damage
Knowing when to call experts is critical. Water damage left untreated can lead to mold growth and structural deterioration. ServiceMaster by Fuson - Traverse City specializes in emergency water removal and restoration for commercial properties, ensuring minimal downtime.
Mitigating Hail Impact
Hailstorms may not happen frequently, but when they do, the damage can be significant. Hailstones can chip paint, dent exteriors, and even break windows. With proper preparation, you can mitigate the risks.
Protect Windows and Glass
Install impact-resistant film or storm shutters over any large glass surfaces. These measures can lessen the chance of cracks or shattering during a hailstorm.
Upgrade Your Roof
Certain materials, like asphalt or wood shingles, are particularly vulnerable to hail damage. Consider a roofing material like metal or rubberized asphalt, which can better withstand hail impacts. If a new roof isn’t an option, regular inspections and maintenance will help ensure your current one remains secure.
Move Outdoor Equipment Indoors
If possible, store vehicles, tools, or outdoor machinery in a garage or covered area before hailstorms. Protecting these assets will help save on post-storm repair costs.
Hail Damage Restoration Services
When hail causes visible exterior damage, quick repairs can prevent it from worsening. Restoration experts can save your building from further wear and tear after a storm, whether it's cracked windows or dented siding.
Why Restoration Services Matter
Despite the best precautions, storms can still cause considerable damage. Having a trusted restoration partner is vital. ServiceMaster by Fuson - Traverse City provides professional emergency restoration services tailored to storm damage, including water removal, structural repair, and mold prevention.
Preparing for Traverse City’s Summer Storms
Being proactive is the best defense against storm damage. Regularly maintaining and inspecting your commercial property, investing in necessary upgrades, and creating a detailed emergency response plan are all critical steps. These efforts will help protect your property during heavy winds, rain, and hail and ensure a safer environment for everyone who visits your business.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to prepare for summer storms in Traverse City. Contact ServiceMaster Restore to learn more about storm damage prevention and restoration services. 
