How to Secure Your Home from a Hurricane – Prevent Storm Damage
Damages generated by hurricanes can be disastrous for your residence. The extreme weather conditions can harm any residence, such as shatter windows, separate roofs and uproot trees and shrubs. Your residence is also exposed to water damage from downpours. However, there are preventative measures you can take to safeguard your property from heavy storms. Follow the guidelines below to assure you, your family and your residence is secure from a hurricane and to avoid excessive storm damage restoration.Necessary Steps in Hurricane Preparation
- Garage Door – To avoid any major storm damage repairs, your garage door should be one of the primary things to check for. A lot of the garage doors in residential neighborhoods aren't installed to combat hurricane conditions, so it's critical to purchase a support kit. By supporting your garage door, you'll block the winds that cause a positive push in your space. This is integral since the winds outside will create 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 an effective way to avoid excessive damage. However, if it's too late to install braces, you can use your automobile to brace your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – Damaged windows don't only allow the rain to get into your house, but the wind that blows in can put a lot of pressure under your roof, which can lead to excessive damage to your structure. Storm shutters are an efficient approach to secure your residence during a storm. When a storm is at hand, make sure the latches are working correctly and you may want to consider adding additional locks for added defense. You can also cover your windows with OSB if you don't have shutters, but it's crucial to note that placing masking tape on your windows won't do anything in a heavy storm. When your windows are protected, move to your doors next. Make sure they're durable and that the deadbolts are functioning right.
- Roof – Your roof acts as your primary protector against the elements, and that's why it's critical to make sure it's prepared for hurricane season. Locate any loose shingles and repair them with reliable roofing material, such as roofing cement. You'll also want irrigation for the strong rains, so clean out your gutters so the water doesn't pool on your roof. You can then check out any wires that are entering into your property and seal off any exposed gaps to stop water damage from occurring. Finally, check whether it's critical to fasten your roof with hurricane straps.
- Your Property – Walking around your outdoor property is another essential step you should take. Your shrubs and trees need attention and might require some pruning. Any dangling or dead limbs can be hazardous in windy conditions and could cause some damage to your property. This goes for items on your lawn like patio furniture as well. Move any items that aren't secured to the ground or weighed down to a secure location before the wind takes them away.
- Car – Along with your home, you should also take preventative measures with your automobile. Don't park your car under any trees or in an area that floods easily. If you keep your car on the street, you should really be watchful of where you park. Furthermore, do some prep work as well, such as: making sure your tank is full, your windshield wipers are in good condition, your tires aren't worn out and that your windows are sealed correctly.
