A Homeowners Guide to Securing a Home from a Hurricane
Water damage, flooding and ruined structures are the usual cases after a hurricane passes through. Nevertheless, there are a few important approaches you can execute in order to prevent these scenarios and any major storm damage repairs. It's crucial to do anything you can to protect your house from a hurricane and to keep your loved ones and your neighbors safe. Below is a list of practices to keep in mind while defending your property against Mother Nature.Things to Keep in Mind When a Hurricane Approaches
- Garage Door – Believe it or not, your garage is really one of the most susceptible spots when it comes to heavy storms like hurricanes. The explanation: most garage doors are not reinforced and strong winds can get into the garage. When this happens, a positive push generates in the garage, and as the winds are whirling above it, this creates a negative pull. A push-pull combination is created, and this can put a lot of pressure on your roof and eventually it could tear it off your garage. To prevent this from happening, the best approach is to purchase a kit that braces your garage door. But if it's too late to put in a garage door kit, then you can use your vehicle to brace your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – The other problematic areas in your property are your access points such as your windows and doors. Damaged windows will allow wind and rain to move through your house, and this can lead to water damage problems. When a storm is imminent, make sure you lock and secure your windows. If you have storm shutters installed, make sure they are functioning and locked, but if you don't have storm shutters, you can board up your windows to keep possible destruction out of your residence. Also, keep in mind that sticking masking tape on your windows won't protect them at all. Concerning your doors, lock the deadbolts or any other locking mechanisms to confirm they don't pop open during strong winds.
- Roof – Inspecting your roof is important before a hurricane passes through your area, and it can defend against property damage and give you a sense of well-being. One of the main things you'll want to check for is damaged shingles and apply some roofing cement to fix them. Afterward, look for any unprotected gaps where any wiring is coming into your house and seal them. This can prevent water from entering your property. You might want to consider obtaining hurricane straps to confirm your roof is secure as well. Another thing to do is unclog your gutters so there's appropriate irrigation for the strong rains.
- Your Property – Take a walk around your lawn prior to the storm. Your shrubs and trees need some treatment and might require some trimming. Any loose or dead limbs can be dangerous in windy conditions and could cause excessive damage to your house. This pertains to items on your lawn such as patio furniture too. Transfer any items that aren't fastened to the ground or weighed down to a secure location before the wind takes them away.
- Car – When you're worried about protecting your home from a hurricane, it's easy to forget about your vehicle. Make sure that your car is filled with gas, that your tires aren't worn down, the windows are up and that your windshield wipers are working. If you have to park on the street, you'll want to check that you're not parked under any trees or in a location that is vulnerable to flooding.
