Buildings can sustain a great deal of damage during a tornado. While the amount of damage largely depends on the severity of the storm, even a less severe tornado can create a lot of issues that are perhaps not so apparent at first glance. Let’s discuss some areas of the home that should be inspected for damage after a tornado.
If your home has been in the path of a tornado, it might be a good idea to have it inspected by a professional who can tell you if it has sustained any structural damage or not.
- A buildings structure is severely shaken during a tornado which can affect many areas. One area to inspect is the homes plumbing system. Check for leaks by turning on all the faucets in the home and observe any signs of water leaking. You would want to check under sinks and cabinets etc. also.
- Trees often become uprooted during a tornado and this can disrupt gas lines. You must make sure this is not the case before you turn on the gas in your home.
- Go through the home and check for signs of stress cracks, especially where the walls meet the ceiling. It may be a good idea to use a level to see whether the floors and walls have shifted.
- If you notice damage to masonry and in crawlspaces, this could be an indication that the buildings foundation has been compromised.
- Check the chimney for damage. This is important because a damaged chimney could cause a build up of carbon monoxide inside the home.
- A roof often sustains damage during a tornado. If this is the case, try to have it repaired immediately to prevent further problems such as water damage and mold.
If your home has been in the path of a tornado, it might be a good idea to have it inspected by a professional who can tell you if it has sustained any structural damage or not.
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