How to Protect Your House from a Hurricane – Prevent Storm Damage
Damages caused from hurricanes can be devastating for your house. The strong winds can break windows, separate roofs and knock over trees. Your house is also exposed to water damage and flooding from downpours. However, there are approaches you can take to defend your house from strong weather conditions. Follow the methods listed below to make sure you, your family and your property is protected from a hurricane and to avoid the need for storm damage restoration.Ways to Plan for a Hurricane
- Garage Door – Begin with your garage if your house has one, because this is one of the most vulnerable sections for storm damage. Strong winds can permeate the standard residential garage door because they're not built with the extra support. What can happen is the wind will create a positive push inside your garage, and the wind outside of the structure creates a negative pull. When this takes place, your roof and garage will endure a lot of pressure because of this tug-of-war situation. To avoid a major storm damage repair, you can buy a kit that will help your garage door hold off hurricane conditions. This is the most efficient method, but if you don't have the time to install a kit, then you can use your car to help 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 in can put a lot of pressure under your roof, which can lead to excessive damage to your structure. Storm shutters are an effective approach to secure your property during a hurricane. When a storm is at hand, make sure the latches on your shutters are working properly and you may want to consider adding additional locks for added protection. You can also board up your windows if you don't have shutters, but it's crucial to know that putting masking tape on your windows won't do anything to protect your house from a hurricane. After your windows are protected, check your doors next. Make sure they're stable and that the deadbolts are in working order.
- Roof – Your roof is a primary defense against the elements, and that's why it's crucial to make sure it's prepared for a hurricane. Locate any damaged shingles and fix them with roofing concrete. You'll also want irrigation for the pouring rains, so unclog your gutters so the water doesn't concentrate on your roof. You can then check out any wires that are entering into your house and seal off any susceptible gaps to block water damage from happening. Lastly, evaluate whether it's required to fasten your roof with hurricane straps.
- Your Property – Your lawn can be a primary risk when a hurricane comes through. Items that aren't weighed down or fastened to the ground could be picked from the high wind and be propelled into your residence and your neighbor's too. Walk around your lawn and relocate any patio furniture, BBQs, garden accessories and children's toys to a location safe from the storm. Another thing you need to do is cut back any dangling or dead branches from your shrubs and trees.
- Car – Along with your home, you should also take preventative measures with your car. Don't park your vehicle under any trees or in a spot that floods easily. If you rely on street parking, you should really be careful of where you park during a hurricane. In addition, prepare your vehicle, like: making sure your gas tank is full, your windshield wipers are in good condition, your tires have good tread and that your windows are sealed properly.
