In late September, the Jacobson family living in Idaho Falls, Idaho, was hit by a very strong windstorm that removed a number of shingles from their roof and broke numerous windows in their two-story home. The damage from the storm initially only looked minor, but overnight, rain poured in through the roof and windows not covered by glass. When they got up to take a look Sunday morning, there was water in their attic insulation and water on the floor in the upstairs hallway.
In a panic, they called Rainbow Restoration of Idaho Falls. Within a few hours of calling, a licensed and trained emergency response team pulled into their driveway and started putting a tarp over the roof and boarding up the broken windows to stop the water from getting any worse and to prevent any further structural damage from occurring.
What may have led to thousands of dollars of additional repairs with the rainwater coming into their home turned into an expensive but easy clean-up and a new roll of insulation for the Jacobsons, because they acted fast. Their story illustrates why emergency tarping and boarding-up services in Idaho Falls are very important following a disaster.
The Importance of Emergency Tarping and Board-Up
Disasters can happen unexpectedly and without warning at any time (e.g., fire, storm, flood, etc.). In addition to the initial damage caused by the event, exposure to the environment, theft, and animals entering afterward can cause additional damage. Emergency tarping and board-up services offer a barrier against these secondary threats.
These services provide:
- Securing the structure
- Preventing water intrusion
- Preventing entry
- Protecting against additional insurance liability
- Allowing restoration teams to access the structure safely and effectively
A quick response to the initial causes of damage or disaster can be the difference between a feasible restoration and a complete rebuild.
When Should I Call Emergency Tarping and Board-Up?
The following are the most common situations requiring emergency tarping or board-up services:
- Roof damage from wind or hail
Wind, falling trees, or hail can cause extreme damage to your roofing surface. Missing shingles, punctures, and torn flashing all leave your home open to leaks. If your roof is compromised in any way, emergency tarping will protect it until it can be repaired permanently.
- After a house fire
Fires typically destroy parts of a structure, including roofs, windows, and doors. If the structure is partially damaged, exposure to the environment can cause further damage. Boarding up the fire-damaged area prevents weather and animals from causing additional damage while also securing a destroyed structure.
- A broken window or door
Severe storms, vandalism, or burglaries can break windows and doors. Once the window or door has been broken, it is an open invitation to additional damage and theft. Boarding up openings is crucial for maintaining the security of your home and ultimately ensuring compliance with your insurance policy coverage.
- Flood damage and water infiltration
The water restoration component of a flood cleanup will be your biggest priority, but the emergency board-up situation may still exist at the same time. Broken basement windows, doors blown open from a storm, or even a vulnerable crawl space may need to be boarded up. By boarding up these access points, you will help reduce mold and pest issues during the restoration process.
- After a storm, safety
After hurricanes, blizzards, or microbursts, homes must contend with storm and wind damage, structural damage, blown-around debris, and even electrical hazards. You will want to use emergency board-up services in Idaho Falls to isolate the unsafe area and prevent further damage and accidents while working with insurance to make the necessary repairs.
Benefits of Responding Quickly After A Disaster Strikes
Time is critical when your home has sustained damage. Delaying the board-up can prolong and worsen the amount of damage that has already occurred. The longer you wait, the more complicated and more expensive restoring damages becomes. In addition to the urgency, prompt action also has the following benefits:
- Limits the possibility for property damage: Anything from rain, snow, and debris can lead to fast deterioration the longer it is exposed.
- Reduces safety hazards: By restricting access to any unsecured area and any surrounding debris, you are preventing possible injury that could occur.
- Prevents theft or vandalism: It protects your home from thieves or malcontents looking to do bad things.
- It is usually required by the insurance company: Most insurers will require you to take reasonable steps to mitigate the damages.
- It helps move the restoration process along: Over time, boarding up your home saves time on debris recovery, as once you have a secured place to stay and your belongings are secured, you can begin the recovery stage of the process quickly.
How to Choose the Right Emergency Services Provider
Not all emergency tarping and board-up providers are created equal. In this stressful time, you need a team that is rapid, skilled, knowledgeable, and experienced. Seek companies that offer:
- 24/7 service
- IICRC Certified technicians
- Knowledge of local building codes in Idaho Falls
- Ability to work with your insurance company seamlessly
A trustworthy company will protect your home, assess the structural integrity, document for your insurance company, and formulate a plan for long-term recovery.
What Does the Process Look Like? What Happens When You Call?
When you call a trusted boarding and tarping company in Idaho Falls to board up your home, the following happens:
- Arrival: Professionals from the company arrive at your home usually within a few hours of your call.
- Assessment: They will assess the damage, look for any structural damage, and address safety issues.
- Roof Tarping/Securing: If the roof has been damaged, the team will tarp the roof and secure it properly.
- Board-Up Documentation: If there is damage to doors or windows, they will properly board up the openings or cover broken glass with plywood or other coverings.
- Insurance Documentation: Work is documented at every stage of the process, including photos, reports, and notes to support your insurance claim.
- Future Planning: A restoration professional will provide you with a plan for cleanup, repairs, or complete restoration.
When you work with a company that understands both immediate protection and long-term restoration, like Rainbow Restoration in Idaho Falls, you can trust that they are going to protect your property.
Conclusion: Tarping and Boarding Services are your First Line of Defense Against Damage
At the end of the day, it is what you do in terms of next steps after a disaster that will matter most. Emergency tarping and boarding services are going to be your first line of defense against damage, additional repair costs, and miscommunication with your insurance company. No matter if it's a fire, flood, storm, or vandalism, acting fast can help keep your sanity and your home intact.
Rainbow Restoration of Idaho Falls is your local property restoration provider. We offer a 24/7 emergency tarping service in Idaho Falls, as well as board-ups, fire, and smoke clean-up. Our qualified technicians will respond as soon as possible, perform a complete assessment, and ensure appropriate security for your home.
From emergency tarp to full recovery, Rainbow Restoration will communicate with your insurance company and ensure your safety. You can expect us to protect, preserve, and restore whatever you value most when disaster happens. Contact us to get started with your restoration journey.
