A Homeowners Approach to Securing a Home from a Hurricane
Flooding, ruined structures and water damage are the typical incidents for a post-hurricane environment. Yet, there are some essential steps you can execute in order to prevent these scenarios and any excessive storm damage repairs. It's imperative to do what you can to secure your property from a hurricane and to keep your loved ones and your neighbors protected. Below is a list of approaches to keep in mind while defending your house against the elements.Necessary Steps in Hurricane Precautions
- Garage Door – To prevent any extreme storm damage restorations, your garage door should be one of the primary things to take care. A lot of the garage doors on the market aren't installed to combat hurricane conditions, so it's critical to buy a support kit. Through supporting your garage door, you'll fight against the winds that cause a positive push in your space. This is critical because the winds that develop outside will generate a negative pull above your garage. When this happens, you'll get a tug-of-war scenario which puts a lot of pressure on your garage and roof. Purchasing a support kit for your garage door is an efficient way to prevent excessive damage. But, 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 common incidence that's correlated with hurricanes is water damage, and when your doors and windows aren't safeguarded this will allow the wind and rain to get into your house. When a storm is approaching, confirm that your shutters are durable and in a functional condition. The latches need to be secure and you'll also want to install locks on them. If your house doesn't have storm shutters for your windows, then you can board them up with some OSB. A common misconception with window prep is that you can place masking tape on the window; but this won't help at all. Also, ensure your doors are durable and that the deadbolts are functioning properly. You can also brace your doors for extra support.
- Roof – Inspecting your roof is important before a hurricane passes through your area, and it can help you avoid property damage and provide you peace-of-mind. The primary thing you'll want to look for is damaged shingles and use some roofing cement to repair them. Afterward, look for any unprotected gaps where any wiring is coming into your house and seal them. Small gaps might not seem like a problem, but sealing them off can stop water from entering your house. You might want to think about obtaining hurricane straps to ensure your roof is fastened too. Another thing to do is unclog your gutters so there's appropriate irrigation for the strong rains.
- Your Property – Your lawn can be a primary hazard 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 launched into your home and your neighbor's as well. Walk around your lawn and move any children's toys, patio furniture, BBQs and garden accessories to a location safe from the storm. Another thing you need to do is remove any dangling or dead limbs from your trees and shrubs.
- Car – When you're caught up in safeguarding your house from a hurricane, it's understandable that you forget about your car. Ensure that you have a full tank of gas, that your tires aren't worn down, the windows are up and that your windshield wipers are working. If you park your vehicle on the street, you'll want to make sure that you're not parked under trees or in an area that is vulnerable to floods.
