If you've been significantly impacted by a hurricane, then you're well aware of how it can quickly transform the appearance of a beautiful community. As families begin the cleanup processes, much of the contents of their homes will find themselves in large piles next to the streets, potentially sitting there for weeks. While the city will ultimately pick up the debris, you may want to consider hiring a professional to clear away your debris.
What Type of Debris Results From Hurricane Activity?
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The type of debris after a hurricane can vary depending on the intensity of the hurricane and the manner in which it impacted you. Here are a few types of debris you might see after a hurricane:
Building Materials
These items can be blown around by the storm. It includes things like window and door frames, roof shingles, siding, insulation, and other parts from damaged homes and buildings like bricks, concrete, and chunks of wood. Also, if the area experience significant storm surge, then drywall and baseboards will need to be removed from the home right away during the clean out process to minimize the impact of mold.
Vegetation
Strong winds can cause vegetation to become airborne. You may see vegetative debris on your property, such as tree parts, branches, bushes, leaves, and uprooted plants.
Hazardous Materials
You may not have thought about hazardous materials landing on your property, but this can happen. Some of the items that fall into this category include pesticides, chemical spills, fuel, and miscellaneous poisonous household waste, such as cleaning supplies, paint, etc. Industrial sites may also be a source of hazardous materials.
Flood Debris
If your area becomes flooded, the water may bring in other items like silt, sediment, trash, and other unexpected things.
Electronics and Appliances
Don't be surprised if you see some appliances deposited onto your property. When hurricane damage is severe, it can result in large and small electronics, especially in the event of severe storm surge.
Household and Personal Items
Aside from the larger appliances that can get knocked around, there is also a risk for smaller personal items to get damaged by the hurricane. You may find water-damaged furniture, carpeting, and clothes. Or you may see grills, patio furniture, signs, and other outdoor items moved out of the original place and damaged by the strong winds.
Automobiles
Even vehicles may be affected by hurricane weather. Cars, trucks, motorcycles, and boats can become displaced or damaged when the hurricane makes landfall.
Reasons Hurricane Debris Needs To Be Removed
There are many reasons that hurricane debris needs to be removed right away (aside from the fact that its presence on your property is unsightly). Some issues that necessitate its removal include the following list.
Debris Poses a Safety Risk
Piles of debris in front of homes or along sidewalks pose serious safety risks. Broken glass, nails, and jagged wood can cause cuts, scrapes, and puncture wounds. Mold growth on damp materials can lead to respiratory problems and allergic reactions. Floodwaters mixed with debris may contain harmful substances like sewage and hazardous chemicals. The piles of debris can also attract rodents that carry disease, themselves.
Aids in Recovery Efforts
In most situations, rebuilding needs to take place after a hurricane. The sooner the debris is removed and disposed of properly, the quicker the community can begin rebuilding. Quick debris removal also allows a clear path for emergency responders, repair units, and utility workers to take care of business.
Benefits of Using a Professional To Remove Debris After a Hurricane
Here are a few reasons you may want to hire a professional to remove your debris, rather than wait for the city to pick it up:
Faster Clean-Up
Hiring a professional ensures quicker removal of debris, allowing you to return to normal life faster and not see the contents of your home sitting on your front lawn day after day. City services can be delayed due to the high volume of debris removal requests following a hurricane, potentially leaving your property cluttered for weeks.
Reduced Safety Risks
Hurricane debris can include sharp objects, unstable structures, or hazardous materials. Professionals are equipped with the right tools and protective gear to safely handle and dispose of this debris, reducing the risk of injury.
Avoid Overloading City Services
After a hurricane, city services may be overwhelmed by the volume of debris. By hiring a professional, you not only avoid delays but also help reduce the strain on public resources, allowing the city to focus on more critical areas.
More Thorough Removal
Professionals will ensure that all debris, including bulky items or hazardous materials, is properly removed and disposed of. This level of thoroughness may not be guaranteed with city pickups, which often have restrictions on what they collect.
Prevent Further Damage
Leaving debris on your property for an extended period can lead to further damage, such as mold growth or pests. Professionals can help prevent these issues by removing the debris promptly and effectively
Steps in Professional Debris Removal
When you bring a professional crew to your home for debris removal after a hurricane, they will follow established protocols to do a thorough job. These steps may include the following:
- Assessment and evaluation.
- Preparation.
- Categorizing.
- Removal.
- Disposal.
- Final inspection.
Selecting a Professional To Manage Post-Hurricane Debris Removal
When choosing a professional team to do the job of debris clean-up, be sure to review online information about the company. Work with a team that is experienced in local guidelines and state regulations.