How to Secure Your Home from a Hurricane – Avoid Storm Damage
Natural disasters can occur at any time, but hurricanes can at least be discovered prior to hitting your location. Preparation and planning are very effective things you can do when a hurricane approaches. Because your home is one of your most valuable expenses, it's a smart idea to do what you can to avoid the damages that hurricanes can bring to your home and to avoid any storm damage restoration. There are many things to check up on when prepping your house for a hurricane. To secure your house from a hurricane, follow the approaches listed below.Things to Plan When a Hurricane Is Scheduled
- Garage Door – Start with your garage if your home has one, because this is one of the most susceptible areas for storm damage. High winds can permeate the typical residential garage door because they're not built with the needed support. What can happen is the wind will create a positive push in your garage, and the wind outside of the structure causes 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 defend from a major storm damage restoration, you can purchase braces that will help your garage door resist hurricane conditions. This is the most effective approach, but if time isn't on your side, then you can use your vehicle to help support 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 wind and rain to get into your home. Before the storm hits, check that your shutters are sturdy and in a working condition. The latches on your shutters should be secure and it might be necessary to install locks on them. If you don't have shutters for your windows, then you can board them up with some OSB. A common misconception with window preparation is that you can use masking tape on the window; but this doesn't help at all. Also, ensure your doors are in good condition and that the deadbolts are functioning properly. You can also use braces on your doors for added measure.
- Roof – A roof inspection is critical, and you should scan for any loose shingles and other vulnerable spots. You can use roof cement to secure any loose shingles, and you should consider getting hurricane straps to ensure your roof is fastened to your home. Additionally, it's a good idea to seal any spots where wires come into your home to avoid any water damage from occurring. While you're analyzing your roof, check to see if your gutters are congested. You want to ensure you have good irrigation for the pouring rain that occur during a hurricane.
- Your Property – Take a walk around your property prior to the hurricane. Your trees and shrubs need treatment and might require some trimming. Any dangling or dead branches can be dangerous in high winds and could cause a lot of damage to your home. This includes items on your property like patio furniture as well. Transfer any loose items to a safe place before the wind can take them.
- Car – Your car can easily be forgotten when you're protecting your property for a hurricane. But it's important to get your car ready as well, so check that you have: a full tank of gas, working windshield wipers, good tires and your windows sealed. Furthermore, be mindful of where you park your car, especially if you park on the street. Make sure your vehicle isn't under any trees or in a location that's vulnerable to flooding.
