Calamities like Hurricane Ida can bring tremendous damage to various structures. Strong winds can fling debris at them or blow off roofs and other building parts. Meanwhile, rain can cause floods and water damage to houses and commercial properties. Furthermore, water can seep through cracks and small spaces, which can deteriorate construction parts if left unchecked.
People are advised to take precautions and act immediately to keep themselves safe ina hurricane. And one of their responsibilities is to ensure their residential or commercial building is in good condition before the storm arrives.
Although no building can remain completely unscathed, especially with a once in 500 years storm like Ida, keeping it structurally sound might help reduce the impact. Poorly constructed houses or those made with substandard materials are more likely to get compromised easily by strong winds, flying objects, and water damage. In addition, proximity to the storm’s path also contributes to the extent of damage the structure will sustain.
Even minor flaws can worsen over time, decreasing the property’s soundness. This can lead to more severe and expensive safety hazards to owners when another calamity hits.
Property owners must have their homes or commercial buildings inspected by a structural engineer New Jersey before a coming storm. Moreover, annual assessments can help determine underlying flaws, allowing repairs or replacements to be carried out as soon as possible.
Building inspections are also crucial after a hurricane like Ida. With the insights of a professional NJ structural engineer, owners can better understand their property’s present status and prepare for the repairs and restorations required. The job must be done right away to prevent further deterioration. Postponing the construction project to another time can worsen the structure’s condition.
Hurricane Ida is in New Jersey’s rear-view mirror, but there will be other storms in the future. For more information on the role of structural inspections and professional engineers in times of disaster, see this infographic from Lockatong Engineering.
