ACCORD Restoration
7123 Windsor Mill Rd., Suite 100
Baltimore, MD 21244
Phone: 1-888-277-0651
Fax: 410-277-0632
ACCORDrestoration.com

BALTIMORE, MD. July 1, 2008 – Storms can wreak havoc on any structure they encounter, so planning a response to these potential disasters, especially in areas prone to large storms like hurricanes, is essential, said clean-up and restoration expert Frank Nemshick, president of ACCORD Restoration (ACCORDrestoration.com).

To begin preparations, a property owner must know the ins and outs of his or her insurance policy, Nemshick explained, which includes having the property appraised regularly.

Of note is the fact that homeowners’ insurance does not cover flooding, so it is important to purchase flood insurance. Because this policy would not take effect for 30 days, it must be purchased long before a storm is forecast.

Securing and Preparing

High winds from a storm or hurricane can cause many structures in a building to fail. Roofs are designed to transfer the force of high winds down to the foundation. If the roof sheathing is not nailed into the rafters or trusses of the roofing structure, then it can fail to perform as designed, making it important to check these areas prior to high winds. Hurricane straps, which are galvanized metal braces that keep the roof securely fastened to the walls of a home or building, are advised for properties in areas with a high hurricane risk. Installing braces should be left to a licensed professional.

A property’s windows and doors must be properly braced to withstand the high winds of hurricanes. Storm shutters can protect exposed windows, skylights, doors and other glass surfaces and are available in steel, wood or aluminum. Their protection benefit can be mimicked with plywood. Reinforcing bolts to secure doors to the top and bottom frame will ensure that they will be able to handle a forceful storm. Beyond wind damage is the flooding that is often associated with strong storms.  

To minimize and prevent damage to the electrical system, Nemshick said the main panel board and all electrical outlets and switches as well as electrically run units, such as washers, dryers, furnaces and water heaters, should be located at least 12 inches above the flood elevation for the area. A generator that can run heating or air conditioning in the event of a power outage is an advisable storm preparation investment. It also will power equipment, such as a dehumidifier, which can help prevent mold growth after flooding.  

Before structural changes are made to any property, Nemshick said the owner should check local building codes and assess the degree of storm protection that makes financial sense. The local Red Cross and emergency management agency are great resources for learning the flood elevation and hurricane risk of an area.

Storm Supply List  

From his years of experience, Nemshick suggested gathering the following list of key items to prepare for a hurricane or storm:

• Battery-operated flashlights, lanterns, radio and fan

• Extra batteries—two extra sets for each battery-operated item

• Special care items for infants or family members with specific medial needs

• Prescription medication supply

• First aid kit

• Clean drinking water

• Waterproof matches and lighters

• Propane or gas grill/stove (for outdoor use only).

• Supply of canned/non-perishable foods

• Manual can opener

• Disposable utensils, plates and cups

• Fuel for a car and/or portable generator along with a funnel

• Garbage bags

• Rope and hand tools

• Insurance agency contact information and other important documents in waterproof containers.  

"Storms not only cause damage to your property, but they also can destroy your peace of mind,” Nemshick said, "but being prepared to lessen the impact of these natural disasters.”

About ACCORD Restoration

ACCORD Restoration (ACCORDrestoration.com) specializes in clean-up, repair, restoration and rebuilding after fires, floods, storms or other disaster related property damage. Their extensive list of services includes: 24-hour emergency response, clean-up, board-up, assessments, water and flood damage restoration, fire and smoke damage restoration, mold prevention and remediation, storm and wind damage restoration and rebuilding. Contact by phone at: 1-888-277-0651, by e-mail at: info@accordrestoration.com or learn more at ACCORDrestoration.com.  MHIC #51366.

Press Contacts:

Frank Nemshick, President
ACCORD Restoration
1-888-277-0651
info@accordrestoration.com

Kris McCurry, Executive Vice President
Brave New Markets
410-902-0801 ext. 307
kmccurry@bravenewmarkets.com

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