Getting Your House Ready for a Hurricane - Storm Damage Prevention

Damages caused by hurricanes can be devastating for your home. The extreme weather conditions can harm any home like smash windows, tear apart roofs and knock over trees and shrubs. Your home is also susceptible to water damage and flooding from downpours. Yet, there are preventative measures you can take to defend your property from strong storms. Follow the approaches listed below to make sure you, your family and your residence is safeguarded from a hurricane and to avoid the need for storm damage restoration.

Fundamental Steps in Hurricane Preparation

  • Garage Door – To prevent any extreme storm damage repairs, your garage door should be one of the primary things to check for. A lot of the garage doors on the market aren't installed to fight hurricane conditions, so it's essential to purchase a support kit. By bracing your garage door, you'll have defense against the winds that cause a positive push in your garage. This is significant because the winds outside will generate a negative pull above your garage. When this occurs, you'll get a push-pull scenario which puts a lot of stress on your garage and roof. Supporting your garage door with braces is an effective method to avoid major damage. But, if it's too late to install braces, you can use your vehicle to brace your garage door.
  • Windows and Doors – Water damage is one of the most frequent impairments tied to hurricanes, and when your doors and windows aren't safeguarded this will allow the storm to get into your house. Before the storm hits, check that your shutters are durable and in a working condition. The latches need to be strong and it may be necessary to put additional locks on them. Boarding up your windows is also an effective approach if you don't have shutters. One wrong idea that's passed around for window preparation is that you can tape up the window; but this doesn't defend it at all. Also, confirm that your doors are in strong condition and that the deadbolts are functioning properly. You can also install braces on your doors for added measure.
  • Roof – Inspecting your roof is important before a hurricane passes through your area, and it can defend against property damage and provide you peace-of-mind. The main thing you'll want to look for is loose shingles and apply some roofing cement to repair them. Next, look for any exposed gaps where any wiring is entering in your house and seal them. Small gaps may not seem like an issue, but sealing them off can bar any water from getting into your residence. You might want to consider getting hurricane straps to verify your roof is fastened as well. Another thing to do is clear out your gutters so there's appropriate irrigation for the strong rains.
  • Your Property – Strolling through your yard is another important measure you should take. Your shrubs and trees need some attention and might require some trimming. Any loose or dead limbs can be hazardous in extreme winds and could cause a lot of damage to your property. This also consists of items on your lawn such as patio furniture too. Transport any loose items to a safe area before the wind takes them away.
  • Car – When you're caught up in safeguarding your residence from a hurricane, it's understandable that you forget about your automobile. Ensure that your vehicle is filled with gas, that your tires have good tread, the windows are sealed and that your windshield wipers are good. If you have to park on the street, you'll want to verify that you're not parked under any trees or in an area that is vulnerable to floods.

Get Hurricane Damage Repair Services for Your Home with Paul Davis

Even with all the necessary steps you take in protecting your residence, there is only so much you can do. If your property succumbs to damage produced by a hurricane, call the experts at Paul Davis. We can bring back your property to normal with our storm damage repair and remediation services. We also work with different home insurers and we can help you determine if your damage is covered. Call Paul Davis today at (403)342-4666 to locate a franchise near your area.