From unexpected downpours to damaging winds, homeowners should be prepared for emergency repairs when storms appear this summer.

A recent nationwide survey of 1,000 homeowners by T-Rex Tape, a leading maker of premium repair tapes, revealed that 100% of respondents have experienced damage requiring immediate attention following extreme weather events, with summer leading as the season with the most extreme weather events (37%).

Although nearly two-thirds of them (64%) report that they’re not fully prepared to make emergency fixes, all still attempted a DIY repair when needed. With the right tools and knowledge, quick action can help minimize damage and buy valuable time before professional maintenance is possible.

To help homeowners manage emergency storm cleanup and repairs, Kerry Haugh, director of product marketing for T-Rex Brand, shares some proactive strategies:

Take preventative precautions

According to the survey, high winds (49%) topped the list of weather-related culprits, followed by falling limbs and roof damage (42%), clogged gutters (32%), and structural issues from debris (28%). Water leaks also frequently occur inside the home and affect a sizable number of homeowners (30%).

Haugh suggests that preventative maintenance is one of the most effective ways to reduce emergency damage. “Homeowners should regularly check roofs and siding for any signs of wear and ensure sump pumps and other plumbing fixtures are working and free of clogs,” she explains. “It’s also important to clean out gutters to ensure water flow and prevent backup that can cause problems.”

Fill your toolbox

In urgent situations, some homeowners reported resorting to improvised, unreliable solutions, such as towels (39%), clothing (18%), or even newspapers (15%), to plug leaks. It’s crucial to keep essential emergency repair supplies on hand in one easily accessible location. A standard toolkit should include valuable items, such as hammers, nails, tarps, sealant, and strong, waterproof repair tape specifically designed to withstand harsh conditions.

“Extreme weather is inevitable, and having the right tools on hand can help safeguard the home,” Haugh says. “While many households have traditional duct tape, waterproof and repair tape, such as T-Rex Waterproof and Repair Tape, is ideal for durable, post-storm repairs since it’s specifically designed to adhere to wet or uneven surfaces until permanent repairs can be made.”

Formulated with Flex-to-Fit Technology, which utilizes a highly conformable UV acrylic adhesive that is repositionable, T-Rex Waterproof and Repair Tape instantly seals out water, air, and moisture — even underwater. Plus, it stands up in temperatures ranging from -40 degrees F to 240 degrees F, providing all-weather durability.

Make quick, post-storm repairs

Once it’s safe to go outside, homeowners should assess any risks and utilize items in their toolkit to help prevent damage in and outside the home, looking for any interior or exterior issues or leaks that could cause harm if not addressed. Haugh suggests using those key toolbox items as an effective temporary solution.

“Most individuals expect a temporary repair to last a few hours to a few days, but more than 65% of homeowners were surprised by the strength and durability of products like waterproof tape when addressing storm-related leaks,” she states. “We’ve learned waterproof and repair tape should be included among other DIY repair staples, like a hammer and nails.”

For more information about T-Rex Tape, visit trextape.com/why-t-rex.

With the right tools in your toolbox, homeowners can stay prepared to weather winds, rain and other extreme conditions this summer.