Hurricane Defense – Bracing Your House from Potential Damage
Damage generated by hurricanes can be devastating for your property. The strong winds can break windows, tear apart roofs and knock over trees and shrubs. Your property is also susceptible to water damage from downpours. Still, there are precautions you can take to protect your property from strong weather conditions. Follow the approaches listed below to assure you, your family and your property is defended from a hurricane and to prevent the need for storm damage restoration.How to Prepare for a Hurricane
- Garage Door – Start with your garage if your house has one, because this is one of the most vulnerable sections for storm damage. High winds can penetrate the typical residential garage door because they're not built with the needed support. What can take place is the wind will bring about a positive push in your garage, and the wind outside of the structure causes a negative pull. When this occurs, your roof and garage will undergo a lot of stress because of this push-pull situation. To prevent an excessive storm damage repair, you can purchase braces that will help your garage door combat hurricane conditions. This is the most efficient step, but if time isn't on your side, then you can use your automobile to help brace your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – Water damage is one of the most frequent hardships associated with hurricanes, and when your windows and doors aren't safeguarded this will allow the storm to get into your home. When a storm is approaching, make sure your shutters are durable and in a functional condition. The latches should be stable and it might be necessary to put additional locks on them. You can also board up your windows if you don't have storm shutters. A common misconception with window preparation is that you can tape up the window; but this doesn't secure it at all. Additionally, verify that your doors are durable and that the deadbolts are working properly. You can also use braces on your doors for extra defense.
- Roof – Examining your roof is vital before a hurricane passes through your location, and it can defend against property damage and provide you peace-of-mind. A great beginning point is to check for damaged shingles and use some roofing cement to repair them. Next, look for any unprotected gaps where any wiring is coming into your home and seal them. Small gaps might not seem like an issue, but sealing them off can prevent water from coming into your property. You might want to consider getting hurricane straps to make sure your roof is secure as well. Another thing to do is unclog your gutters so there's proper irrigation for the strong rains.
- Your Property – Your yard can be a primary hazard when a hurricane comes through. Any loose items could be picked from the extreme wind and be propelled into your house and your neighbor's too. Walk around your lawn and move any garden accessories, children's toys, patio furniture and BBQs to a place safe from the storm. One other thing you'll want to do is remove any loose or dead branches from your trees and shrubs.
- Car – Your vehicle can easily be forgotten when you're prepping your home for a hurricane. But it's just as critical to get your vehicle ready too, so ensure you have: your gas tank filled, good windshield wipers, tires with good tread and your windows sealed. Also, be mindful of where you park, especially if you rely on street parking. Make sure your car isn't beneath any trees or in an area that's vulnerable to flooding.
