A Homeowners Method to Protecting a House from a Hurricane
Water damage, flooding and structural destruction are the usual scenarios after a hurricane hits. Yet, there are some important approaches you can execute in order to avoid these incidents and any excessive storm damage repairs. It's important to do what you can to defend your property from a hurricane and to keep your loved ones and your neighbors safe. Listed below are things to keep in mind when prepping your house against the elements.Ways to Prepare for a Hurricane
- Garage Door – Indeed, your garage is actually one of the more vulnerable places when it comes to heavy storms like hurricanes. The logic behind it: the average garage door is not reinforced and heavy winds can get into the garage. When this occurs, a positive push generates inside the garage, and as the winds are swirling above your structure, this creates a negative pull. A push-pull combination develops, and this can put a lot of stress on your roof and eventually it could rip it off your garage. To prevent this from taking place, the best approach is to buy a kit that supports your garage door. But if it's too late to install a kit, then you can utilize your car to support your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – Water damage is one of the more common hardships associated with hurricanes, and when your doors and windows aren't protected this will allow the wind and rain to move in your home. When a storm is approaching, check that your shutters are durable and in a functional condition. The latches need to be secure and you'll also want to put additional locks on them. Boarding up your windows is also a great idea if you don't have shutters. One wrong impression that's been taught for window preparation is that you can place masking tape on the window; however, this doesn't defend it at all. Additionally, confirm that your doors are in strong condition and that the deadbolts are working right. You can also use braces on your doors for extra defense.
- Roof – Inspecting your roof is important before a hurricane passes through your location, and it can defend against property damage and give you a sense of well-being. A great starting point is to check for loose shingles and apply some roofing cement to fix them. Afterward, check to see if there are unprotected gaps where any wiring is entering in your home and seal them off. This can stop water from entering your house. You might want to think about getting hurricane straps to verify your roof is fastened as well. Another thing to do is clear out your gutters so there's suitable irrigation for the heavy rains.
- Your Property – The outside of your property can be a number one risk when a hurricane comes through. Items that aren't weighed down or fastened to the ground could be picked from the extreme wind and be launched into your home and your neighbor's too. Walk around your yard and move any garden accessories, children's toys, patio furniture and BBQs to a place out of harm's way. Another thing you need to do is remove any dangling or dead branches from your trees and shrubs.
- Car – When you're caught up in protecting your property from a hurricane, it's easy to forget about your automobile. Make sure that your vehicle is filled with gas, that your tires have good tread, the windows are sealed and that your windshield wipers are working. If you park your car on the street, you'll want to verify that you're not parked under any trees or in a location that is vulnerable to flooding.
