Getting Your House Ready for a Hurricane - Storm Damage Prevention
Structural destruction, water damage and flooding are the usual cases after a hurricane passes through. Nevertheless, there are some essential steps you can take in order to prevent these incidents and any major storm damage repairs. It's crucial to do whatever you can to secure your house from a hurricane and to keep your loved ones and your neighbors protected. Below is a list of methods to keep in mind while defending your residence against the elements.Things to Prepare When a Hurricane Is Scheduled
- Garage Door – To prevent any extreme storm damage repairs, your garage door should be one of the primary things to check for. Most of the garage doors on the market aren't installed to fight hurricane conditions, so it's important to buy a brace kit. Through bracing your garage door, you'll block the winds that cause a positive push in your space. This is integral since the winds that develop 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 roof and garage. Supporting your garage door with braces is the most efficient way to avoid major damage. But, if don't have the time to install braces, you can use your vehicle to brace your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – A typical incidence that's associated with hurricanes is water damage, and when your windows and doors aren't protected this will allow the storm to get into your house. When a storm is approaching, make sure your shutters are durable and in a working condition. The latches on your shutters should be strong and it may be necessary to put additional locks on them. You can also board up your windows if you don't have storm shutters. One wrong idea that's been taught for window prep is that you can place masking tape on the window; however, this won't secure it at all. Additionally, verify that your doors are in strong condition and that the deadbolts are functioning right. You can also use braces on your doors for added measure.
- Roof – Administering a quick examination of your roof before a hurricane hits your area can save you from a lot of property damage. A good starting point is to locate loose shingles and use some roofing cement to repair them. Afterward, look for any threatening gaps where any wiring is entering in your house and seal them. This can block water from entering your residence. You might want to think about obtaining hurricane straps to make sure your roof is fastened as well. Another thing to do is unclog your gutters so there's good irrigation for the heavy rains.
- Your Property – Your lawn can be a number one risk when a hurricane hits your town. Any loose items could be picked from the high wind and be thrown into your residence and your neighbor's as well. Make sure to relocate any children's toys, patio furniture, BBQs and garden accessories to a place safe from the storm. One other thing you'll want to do is remove any loose or dead limbs from your shrubs and trees.
- Car – When you're concerned about protecting your home from a hurricane, it's easy to forget about your car. Make sure that you have a full tank of gas, that your tires are in good condition, the windows are up and that your windshield wipers are good. If you have to park on the street, you'll want to make sure that you're not parked under any trees or in an area that is vulnerable to floods.
