A Homeowners Approach to Securing a Home from a Hurricane
Damage induced from hurricanes can be destructive for your residence. The high winds can shatter windows, separate roofs and uproot trees and shrubs. Your residence is also susceptible to water damage from the heavy rains. Yet, there are preventative measures you can take to protect your property from strong storms. Follow the methods listed below to make sure you, your family and your house is secure from a hurricane and to avoid excessive storm damage restoration.Things to Keep in Mind When a Hurricane Approaches
- Garage Door – If you have a garage, this may be one of the first things you need to take care of. Typically, garage doors don't have the support to brace high winds. What can happen is the wind will generate a positive push inside your garage, and the wind outside of the structure creates a negative pull. When this takes place, your garage and roof will endure a lot of pressure because of this push-pull situation. To prevent a major storm damage restoration, you can purchase braces that will help your garage door withstand hurricane conditions. This is the most reliable method, but if you don't have the time to install a kit, then you can use your automobile to help brace your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – Water damage is one of the most frequent impairments associated with hurricanes, and when your doors and windows aren't secure this will allow the storm to move in your house. When a hurricane is imminent, verify that your shutters are durable and in a working condition. The latches need to be secure and it may be necessary to put additional locks on them. If you don't have shutters for your windows, then you can board them up with some OSB. One wrong idea that's passed around for window prep is that you can tape up the window; however, this won't protect it at all. Additionally, check that your doors are sturdy and that the deadbolts are working correctly. You can also brace your doors for extra defense.
- Roof – Inspecting your roof is vital before a hurricane passes through your area, and it can defend against property damage and provide you a sense of well-being. A good beginning point is to locate loose shingles and use some roofing cement to repair them. Next, check to see if there are unprotected gaps where any wiring is coming into your house and seal them off. Small gaps may not seem like a problem, but sealing them off can bar any water from entering your house. You might want to think about getting hurricane straps to verify your roof is secure too. Additionally, you'll want to clear out your gutters so there's proper irrigation for the strong rains.
- Your Property – It's important to clear your property of any loose items like children's toys, garden accessories and patio furniture. If it can be picked up from a strong wind storm, then clear it out and put it in a secure location so it doesn't cause damage to your property and others' around you. Furthermore, examine your trees and shrubbery for any dead or loose branches and trim them if necessary.
- Car – When you're caught up in protecting your house from a hurricane, it's understandable that you forget about your automobile. Make sure that you have a full tank of gas, that your tires are in good condition, the windows are up and that your windshield wipers are good. If you have to park on the street, you'll want to verify that you're not parked under any trees or in a location that is susceptible to floods.
