A Homeowners Approach to Defending a Home from a Hurricane
Damages caused from hurricanes can be destructive for your property. The extreme weather conditions can harm any property like shatter windows, separate roofs and uproot trees. Your property is also prone to water damage and flooding from downpours. Still, there are preventative measures you can take to secure your home from heavy weather conditions. Follow the guidelines below to assure you, your family and your property is defended from a hurricane and to avoid excessive storm damage repairs.Hurricane Preparation Checklist - Best Methods to Prevent Storm Damage
- Garage Door – In fact, your garage is actually one of the more susceptible spots when it comes to extreme weather conditions such as hurricanes. The reason why: the average garage door is not reinforced and heavy winds can get into the area. When this occurs, you get a positive push in the garage, and as the winds are swirling above it, this causes a negative pull. With the push-pull combination, this can put a lot of stress on your roof and eventually it could tear it off your garage. To combat this from happening, the best resolution is to buy a kit that braces your garage door. Although, if time isn't on your side to install a kit, then you can use your car to support your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – The other problematic areas in your property are your entrances like your windows and doors. Damaged windows will allow wind and rain to move through your home, and this can lead to water damage problems. When a hurricane is imminent, make sure you lock and secure your windows. If you have storm shutters installed, ensure they are closed and locked, but if you don't have storm shutters, you can board up your windows to keep probable damage out of your home. Also, remember that placing masking tape on your windows doesn't do anything to defend them. As for your doors, use the deadbolts or any other locking mechanisms to verify they don't fly open during heavy winds.
- Roof – A roof examination is important, and you should look out for any damaged shingles and other susceptible spots. Get some roof cement to mend any loose shingles, and you should consider getting hurricane straps to ensure your roof is fastened to your home. Also, you'll want to seal any spots where wires enter into your home to avoid any water damage from occurring. In the course of your roof examination, this is a good time to see if your gutters are congested. Good irrigation is vital for water run-off during the hurricane.
- Your Property – Have a walk around your lawn prior to the hurricane. Your shrubs and trees need some consideration and might require some trimming. Any dangling or dead limbs can be hazardous in extreme winds and could cause excessive damage to your home. This pertains to items in your yard like patio furniture too. Relocate any loose items to a safe location before the wind takes them away.
- Car – Aside from your property, it's necessary to take preventative measures with your car. Don't park your car beneath any trees or in a spot that is susceptible to flooding. If you keep your car on the street, you should really be cautious of where you park during a hurricane. In addition, do some prep work too, such as: ensuring your tank is full, your windshield wipers are in good condition, your tires aren't worn out and that your windows are sealed properly.
