How to Safeguard Your Home from a Hurricane – Prevent Storm Damage
Natural disasters can take place at any time, but hurricanes can at least be detected before they hit your area. Preparation and planning are very effective things you can execute when a hurricane approaches. Because your home is one of your biggest investments, it's a smart idea to do what you can to avoid the perils that hurricanes can bring to your property and to avoid any storm damage repair. There are lots of things to check up on when preparing your residence for the ensuing storm. To defend your residence from a hurricane, follow the methods listed below.Things to Prepare When a Hurricane Is En Route
- Garage Door – Indeed, your garage is actually one of the most susceptible spots when it comes to heavy storms like hurricanes. The logic behind it: most garage doors are not reinforced and heavy winds can get into the area. When this happens, you get a positive push in the garage, and as the winds are swirling above it, this causes a negative pull. With the push-pull combo, this can put a lot of stress on your roof and eventually it could rip it off your garage. To prevent this from taking place, the best resolution is to purchase a kit that supports your garage door. But if it's too late to install a kit, then you can use your vehicle to support your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – Damaged windows don't only allow the rain to get into your residence, 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 effective way to protect your residence during a hurricane. When a hurricane is on its way, make sure the latches on your shutters are functioning properly and you may want to consider installing additional locks for added protection. You can also cover your windows with OSB if you don't have shutters, but it's important to know that putting masking tape on your windows won't do anything in a heavy storm. When your windows are protected, check your doors next. Verify that they're sturdy and that the deadbolts are in working order.
- Roof – Your roof acts as your main defender against Mother Nature, and that's why it's crucial to make sure it's ready for a hurricane. Look out for any out of place shingles and repair them with roofing concrete. You'll also want irrigation for the pouring rains, so clear out your gutters so the water doesn't concentrate on your roof. You can then find any wires that are entering into your property and seal off any susceptible gaps to stop water damage from occurring. Lastly, judge whether it's required to secure your roof with hurricane straps.
- Your Property – The land outside of your property can be a number one hazard when a hurricane approaches. Any loose items could be picked from the extreme wind and be heaved into your residence and your neighbor's as well. Make sure to relocate any BBQs, garden accessories, children's toys and patio furniture to an area safe from the storm. One other thing you'll want to do is cut back any dangling or dead limbs from your shrubs and trees.
- Car – Along with your house, you should also take precautions with your vehicle. Don't park your car beneath any trees or in a spot that floods easily. If you rely on street parking, you should really be cautious of where you park during a hurricane. In addition, do some prep work as well, like: ensuring your tank is full, your windshield wipers are in good condition, your tires have good tread and that your windows are sealed properly.
