A Homeowners Guide to Protecting a Home from a Hurricane
Damages generated from hurricanes can be devastating for your property. The extreme weather conditions can impair any property like break windows, tear apart roofs and knock over trees and shrubs. Your property is also vulnerable to water damage and flooding from the constant rain. Nevertheless, there are preventative measures you can take to defend your house from heavy storms. Follow the approaches listed below to make sure you, your family and your house is protected from a hurricane and to avoid the need for storm damage repairs.Necessary Steps in Hurricane Preparation
- Garage Door – If you have a garage, this may be one of the first things you need to take care of. High winds can pass through the typical residential garage door because they're not built with the extra support. What can take place is the wind will generate a positive push in your garage, and the wind outside of it causes a negative pull. When this occurs, your garage and roof will endure a lot of pressure because of this tug-of-war situation. To defend from an excessive storm damage restoration, you can buy braces that will help your garage door withstand hurricane conditions. This is the most effective method, but if time isn't on your side, then you can use your vehicle to help 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 through can put a lot of pressure under your roof, which can lead to excessive damage to your structure. Storm shutters are a great approach to protect your house during a hurricane. When a storm is on its way, make sure the latches are functioning properly and you may want to consider installing additional locks for added defense. You can also board up your windows if you don't have shutters, but it's important to note that putting masking tape on your windows won't do anything in a heavy storm. When your windows are secure, move to your doors next. Verify that they're strong and that the deadbolts are functioning right.
- Roof – Inspecting your roof is vital before a hurricane passes through your location, and it can prevent property damage and provide you peace-of-mind. A great starting point is to locate damaged shingles and apply some roofing cement to fix them. Next, check to see if there are exposed gaps where any wiring is entering in your home and seal them. Small gaps might not seem like a problem, but sealing them off can prevent water from entering your house. You might want to consider getting hurricane straps to confirm your roof is fastened too. Another thing to do is clear out your gutters so there's proper irrigation for the heavy rains.
- Your Property – Walking around your lawn is another essential step you should take. Your trees and shrubs need consideration and might necessitate some pruning. Any loose or dead branches can be dangerous in high winds and could cause a lot of damage to your house. This pertains to items in your yard like patio furniture as well. Relocate any items that aren't secured to the ground or weighed down to a secure location before the wind takes them away.
- Car – Your vehicle can easily be forgotten when you're prepping your property for a storm. But it's important to get your vehicle ready as well, so check that you have: your gas tank filled, good windshield wipers, good tires and your windows sealed. Additionally, be attentive of where you park, especially if you rely on street parking. Make sure your vehicle isn't beneath any trees or in a location that's susceptible to floods.
