Hurricane Defense – Preparing Your Home from Probable Damage

Flooding, ruined structures and water damage are the common cases for a post-hurricane environment. Nevertheless, there are some fundamental methods you can execute in order to avoid these incidents and any major storm damage repairs. It's imperative to do what you can to defend your property from a hurricane and to keep your loved ones and your neighbors secure. Listed below are methods to keep in mind when securing your property against the elements.

Hurricane Planning Checklist - Best Methods to Prevent Storm Damage

  • Garage Door – Start with your garage if your house has one, because this is one of the more vulnerable sections for storm damage. Typically, garage doors don't have the support to combat strong winds. What can take place is the wind will produce a positive push inside your garage, and the wind outside of it creates a negative pull. When this takes place, your roof and garage will sustain a lot of pressure because of this tug-of-war instance. To defend from a major storm damage restoration, you can buy a kit that will help your garage door combat hurricane conditions. This is the most reliable step, but if time isn't on your side, then you can use your vehicle to help brace your garage door.
  • Windows and Doors – A common occurrence that's correlated with hurricanes is water damage, and when your windows and doors aren't protected this will allow the wind and rain to move in your house. Before the storm reaches your location, confirm that your shutters are durable and in a functional condition. The latches on your shutters should be secure and you'll also want to put additional locks on them. Boarding up your windows is also an effective approach if you don't have shutters. A common misconception with window preparation is that you can place masking tape on the window; but this won't defend it at all. Additionally, ensure your doors are sturdy and that the deadbolts are functioning right. You can also brace your doors for added measure.
  • Roof – Make sure to inspect your roof for any damaged shingles and other vulnerable areas. You can use roof cement to fix any loose shingles, and you should consider hurricane straps to make sure your roof is fastened to your house. Also, you'll want to seal any areas where wires enter into your house to prevent any water damage from occurring. While you're inspecting your roof, check to see if your gutters are congested. Suitable irrigation is crucial for directing water away from your home during the hurricane.
  • Your Property – Have a walk around your yard prior to the storm. Your trees and shrubs need consideration and might require some trimming. Any dangling or dead branches can be dangerous in extreme winds and could cause some damage to your house. This also consists of items in your yard like patio furniture too. Transport any items that aren't fastened to the ground or weighed down to a secure location before the wind takes them away.
  • Car – Your car can easily be forgotten when you're prepping your home for a storm. But it's just as crucial to get your car ready too, so make sure you have: a full tank of gas, good windshield wipers, tires with good tread and your windows sealed. Furthermore, be cognizant of where you park your car, especially if you rely on street parking. Make sure your vehicle isn't beneath any trees or in an area that's vulnerable to flooding.

Expert Hurricane Damage Repair Contractors for Your Property

Paul Davis provides storm damage restoration and remediation services, so if your home has been damaged by a hurricane, call our professional team. Unfortunately, there is only so much you can do to defend against the elements. We can repair and restore your house back to its original status, and we work with a range of insurance companies. The experienced team at Paul Davis can help you determine what's covered with your insurance. For a Paul Davis franchise in your area, give us a call at (403)342-4666.