How to Protect Your House from a Hurricane – Avoid Storm Damage
Water damage, flooding and ruined structures are the common scenarios after a hurricane passes through. However, there are some fundamental approaches you can execute in order to prevent these incidents and any major storm damage repairs. It's important to do anything you can to protect your property from a hurricane and to keep your loved ones and your neighbors safe. Below is a list of things to keep in mind when defending your house against the elements.Hurricane Preparation Checklist - Best Methods to Avoid Storm Damage
- Garage Door – To prevent any major storm damage repairs, your garage door should be one of the first things to take care. A lot of the garage doors on the market aren't designed to defend against hurricane conditions, so it's critical to purchase a support kit. Through bracing your garage door, you'll have defense against the winds that cause a positive push in your garage. This is crucial since the winds that develop outside will generate a negative pull over your garage. When this happens, you'll get a push-pull scenario which puts a lot of stress on your garage and roof. Purchasing a brace kit for your garage door is an effective way to avoid excessive damage. However, if it's too late to install the garage door kit, you can use your automobile to brace your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – Windows and doors are another entry-point for a hurricane to cause chaos. Busted windows will allow wind and rain to move through your property, and this can cause water damage problems. When a hurricane is imminent, make sure you lock your windows. If you have storm shutters, make sure they are functioning and locked, but if you don't have storm shutters, you can board up your windows to keep possible damage out of your residence. Also, keep in mind that using masking tape on your windows won't do anything to secure them. Concerning your doors, utilize the deadbolts or any other locks to make sure they don't fly open during heavy winds.
- Roof – Administering a quick checkup on your roof prior to a hurricane can save you from a lot of property damage. A good starting point is to look for damaged shingles and use some roofing cement to fix them. Afterward, check to see if there are unprotected gaps where any wiring is entering in your home and seal them off. This can stop water from entering your house. You might want to think about obtaining hurricane straps to verify your roof is secure as well. Additionally, you'll want to unclog your gutters so there's proper irrigation for the heavy rains.
- Your Property – Your yard can be a number one risk when a hurricane comes through. Items that aren't weighed down or fastened to the ground could be picked from the extreme wind and be flung into your residence and your neighbor's as well. Make sure to move any BBQs, garden accessories, children's toys and patio furniture to a place out of harm's way. One other thing you need to do is cut back any loose or dead branches from your shrubs and trees.
- Car – Aside from your property, you should also take preventative measures with your automobile. Don't park your car under any trees or in an area that is prone to flooding. If you rely on street parking, you should really be careful of where you park. Furthermore, prepare your car, like: ensuring your gas tank is full, your windshield wipers are in good condition, your tires have good tread and that your windows are sealed correctly.
