A Homeowners Method to Defending a House from a Hurricane
Natural disasters can occur without a moment's notice, but hurricanes can at least be revealed prior to hitting your area. Planning and preparing are the most important things you can do when hurricane season comes around. Because your home is one of your most valuable assets, it's a smart idea to do what you can to prevent the perils that hurricanes can bring to your home and to prevent any storm damage restoration. There are a lot of things to check up on when preparing your home for a hurricane. To safeguard your home from a hurricane, use the methods listed below.How to Brace for a Hurricane
- Garage Door – Believe it or not, your garage is really one of the most susceptible places when it comes to heavy weather conditions such as hurricanes. The logic behind it: the average garage door is not supported and heavy winds can get into the area. When this happens, a positive push generates in the garage, and as the winds are whirling above your structure, this creates a negative pull. A push-pull combination is created, and this can put a lot of stress on your roof and eventually it could rip it off your garage. To combat this from happening, the best approach is to buy a kit that supports your garage door. Although, if time isn't on your side to install a kit, then you can use your vehicle to brace your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – Damaged windows don't only allow the rain to get into your residence, but the wind that comes through can put a lot of pressure under your roof, which can lead to excessive damage to your structure. Storm shutters are an effective method to protect your home during a hurricane. When a hurricane is at hand, ensure the latches on your shutters are working correctly and you may want to think about installing additional locks for added defense. You can also board up your windows if you don't have shutters, but it's critical to note that putting masking tape on your windows won't do anything in a heavy storm. After your windows are secure, move to your doors next. Verify that they're strong and that the deadbolts are in working order.
- Roof – Administering a quick checkup on your roof before a hurricane hits your area can save you from a lot of property damage. The primary thing you'll want to look for is damaged shingles and apply some roofing cement to fix them. Afterward, check to see if there are exposed gaps where any wiring is coming into your home and seal them. Small gaps might not seem like an issue, but sealing them off can bar any water from entering your home. You might want to think about obtaining hurricane straps to ensure your roof is secure as well. Also, you'll want to unclog your gutters so there's good irrigation for the heavy rains.
- Your Property – Your lawn can be a primary risk when a hurricane hits your town. Any loose items could be lifted from the high wind and be heaved into your residence and your neighbor's too. Walk around your lawn and relocate any BBQs, garden accessories, children's toys and patio furniture to an area safe from the storm. Another thing you need to do is remove any dangling or dead limbs from your shrubs and trees.
- Car – Along with your home, you should also take precautions with your vehicle. Don't park your car under any trees or in a spot that floods easily. If you rely on street parking, you should really be watchful of where you park during a hurricane. Furthermore, do some prep work too, such as: ensuring your gas tank is full, your windshield wipers are in good condition, your tires have good tread and that your windows are sealed correctly.
