Story Published:
Jul 30, 2010 at 6:25 PM MST
Story Updated:
Jun 15, 2011 at 7:05 PM MST
BILLINGS - More than a month later, many homes damaged in the Father's Day tornado and storms are still waiting to be repaired.
The damage is making a big effect on local businesses and posing potential dangers for homeowners.
"It's increased our business dramatically," ABC Seamless owner Larry Grayson said.
Business is booming for local contracting companies like ABC Seamless. Grayson said calls are still flowing in to repair home damage from the Father's Day storm.
"We're running between 35 and 40 estimates a day, so we're pretty timely," he said, "If they need assistance quicker than that based on flooded basements, leaking roofs, then we're out there immediately.
Due to the hundreds of flooded homes that were first priority after the storm, siding and roof damage is just now being estimated and repaired.
"It has taken some time since then, I mean we're talking a month now and he's just now getting siding and shingles for us," homeowner Todd Kuehn said.
His home had damage from the hailstorm that hit the Wednesday before the tornado. Damages include "shingles, siding, front door, garage door, and a couple windows," Kuehn said. It will take at least another few weeks to get those repairs done.
Homeowners are advised by insurance companies to use local contractors, but there are only so many in Billings.
"I think we have a tight-knit community, period. I don't think a lot of out-of-state contractors are able to actually get into the marketplace here," Alpha Omega Contractor Willy Johnson said.
Grayson said people anxious to get repairs should be patient and should be wary of fly-by-night contractors.
"We get numerous calls, that will go on for another year afterward, can you come and fix those items that were inadequately done, poorly done," Grayson said.
"They're willing to wait to get a local. Their insurance company recommended us, so who's not going to wait for a quality contractor like that," Johnson said.
Since repairs from June could likely extend into 2011, there is concern about further damage should another strong storm hit.
"Theoretically their house should have layer underneath it so it should be protected from the moisture protrusion, but if another storm comes through, God help us all," Johnson joked.
Grayson and Johnson suggest asking your insurance agent for information on finding qualified contractors, and checking out the Better Business Bureau or asking your neighbors for a recommendation.
;)
