A Homeowners Method to Defending a Home from a Hurricane
Damages caused from hurricanes can be destructive for your home. The extreme winds can shatter windows, tear apart roofs and uproot trees and shrubs. Your home is also prone to water damage from the heavy rains. Still, there are preventative measures you can take to defend your property from strong weather conditions. Follow the approaches listed below to make sure you, your family and your property is protected from a hurricane and to avoid excessive storm damage repairs.Hurricane Preparation Checklist - Best Approaches to Avoid Storm Damage
- Garage Door – Indeed, your garage is actually one of the most vulnerable places when it comes to heavy weather conditions like hurricanes. The explanation: most garage doors are not supported and strong winds can get into the garage. When this occurs, a positive push generates in the garage, and as the winds are swirling above it, this creates a negative pull. With the push-pull combination, this can place a lot of stress on your roof and ultimately rip it off. To avoid this from taking place, the best technique 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 automobile to support your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – Doors and windows are another entrance for a hurricane to cause disruption. Shattered windows will allow wind and rain to enter into your property, and this can lead to water damage issues. When a hurricane is imminent, make sure you lock and secure your windows. If you have storm shutters, ensure they are functioning and locked, but if you don't have storm shutters, you can board up your windows to keep potential destruction out of your home. Also, keep in mind that placing masking tape on your windows won't defend them at all. Regarding your doors, utilize the deadbolts or any other locks to make sure they don't pop open during strong winds.
- Roof – A roof checkup is crucial, and you should look out for any loose shingles and other vulnerable spots. Get some roof cement to secure any loose shingles, and you should consider getting hurricane straps to ensure your roof is fastened to your home. Also, it's a good idea to seal any spots where wires enter into your home to avoid any water damage from occurring. While you're analyzing your roof, check to see if your gutters are clogged. Suitable irrigation is important for directing water away from your property during the heavy rains.
- Your Property – Your lawn can be a primary risk when a hurricane hits your town. Any loose items could be picked from the extreme wind and be hurled into your home and your neighbor's too. Make sure to move any BBQs, garden accessories, children's toys and patio furniture to a place safe from the storm. One other thing you need to do is trim back any dangling or dead branches from your trees and shrubs.
- Car – Along with your home, it's necessary to take precautions with your automobile. Don't park your car beneath any trees or in an area that is vulnerable to flooding. If you rely on street parking, you should really be cautious of where you park during a hurricane. Additionally, prepare your car, like: making sure your tank is full, your windshield wipers are working, your tires aren't worn out and that your windows are sealed properly.
