Getting Your Home Ready for a Hurricane - Storm Damage Prevention
Natural disasters can happen at any time, but hurricanes can at least be discovered before they hit your location. Hurricane season is a time for preparation. Because your house is one of your biggest investments, it's a good idea to do what you can to prevent the damages that hurricanes can bring to your home and to prevent any storm damage repair. There are a lot of things to keep in mind when safeguarding your house for a hurricane. To protect your house from a hurricane, follow the approaches listed below.Hurricane Planning Checklist - Best Steps to Prevent Storm Damage
- Garage Door – To prevent any extreme storm damage repairs, your garage door should be one of the primary things to check for. A lot of the garage doors on the market aren't installed to defend against hurricane conditions, so it's essential to purchase a support kit. By supporting your garage door, you'll fight against the winds that generate a positive push in your space. This is integral because the winds outside will create a negative pull above your garage. When this happens, you'll get a tug-of-war scenario which puts a lot of stress on your garage and roof. Getting a support kit for your garage door is an efficient approach to prevent major damage. However, if don't have the time to install the garage door kit, you can use your vehicle to support your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – A typical occurrence that's correlated with hurricanes is water damage, and when your doors and windows aren't protected this will allow the wind and rain to move in your house. When a storm is imminent, check that your shutters are sturdy and in a functional condition. The latches on your shutters need to be secure and it may be necessary to install locks on them. You can also protect your windows with some OSB if you don't have storm shutters. One wrong impression that's been taught for window prep is that you can place masking tape on the window; but this won't defend it at all. Additionally, check that your doors are in good condition and that the deadbolts are functioning right. You can also install braces on your doors for added measure.
- Roof – Examining your roof is crucial before a hurricane passes through your location, and it can prevent property damage and give you peace-of-mind. One of the main things you'll want to check for is damaged shingles and use some roofing cement to repair them. Next, look for any exposed gaps where any wiring is coming into your house and seal them off. Small gaps might not seem like an issue, but sealing them off can bar any water from entering your house. You might want to consider obtaining hurricane straps to make sure your roof is secure as well. Additionally, you'll want to unclog your gutters so there's suitable irrigation for the strong rains.
- Your Property – Take a walk around your property prior to the storm. Your shrubs and trees need some consideration and might necessitate some pruning. Any loose or dead limbs can be hazardous in windy conditions and could cause excessive damage to your home. This includes items on your property like patio furniture too. Transport any loose items to a secure location before the wind can take them.
- Car – Aside from your property, it's necessary to take preventative measures with your vehicle. Don't park your car under any trees or in a spot that is prone to flooding. If you park on the street, you should really be watchful of where you park during a hurricane. In addition, do some prep work too, like: ensuring your tank is full, your windshield wipers are working, your tires aren't worn out and that your windows are sealed properly.
