A Homeowners Method to Securing a House from a Hurricane
Flooding, ruined structures and water damage are the usual cases for a post-hurricane environment. Yet, there are a few important precautions you can take in order to prevent these incidents and any excessive storm damage restorations. It's crucial to do what you can to protect your home from a hurricane and to keep your loved ones and your neighbors secure. Below is a list of methods to keep in mind when prepping your property against the elements.Necessary Methods in Hurricane Precautions
- Garage Door – To prevent any extreme storm damage restorations, your garage door should be one of the primary things to check for. Most of the garage doors on the market aren't designed to combat hurricane conditions, so it's critical to purchase a brace kit. Through bracing your garage door, you'll prevent the winds that cause a positive push in your garage. This is crucial because the winds that develop outside will cause a negative pull above your garage. When this happens, you'll get a push-pull scenario which puts a lot of pressure on your garage and roof. Supporting your garage door with braces is an efficient method to prevent major damage. But, if it's too late to install braces, you can use your automobile to brace your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – Broken windows don't only allow the rain to get into your home, but the wind that comes through can increase the pressure under your roof, which can lead to significant damage to your structure. Storm shutters are an efficient approach to defend your property during a storm. When a storm is imminent, ensure the latches are functioning properly and you may want to think about adding additional locks for added measure. You can also board up your windows if you don't have storm shutters, but it's crucial to note that putting masking tape on your windows won't do anything to protect your home from a hurricane. When your windows are secure, move to your doors next. Verify that they're sturdy and that the deadbolts are in working order.
- Roof – A roof inspection is critical, and you should scan for any loose shingles and other susceptible spots. Get some roof cement to mend any loose shingles, and you should consider hurricane straps to ensure your roof is secure to your home. Also, you'll want to seal any areas where wires enter into your house to prevent any water damage from happening. While you're analyzing your roof, check to see if your gutters are congested. Proper irrigation is crucial for directing water away from your house during the hurricane.
- Your Property – It's important to clear your lawn of any loose items like patio furniture, children's toys and other miscellaneous garden items. If it can be lifted from a heavy gust of wind, then clear it out and put it in a safe area so it doesn't cause damage to your home and others' around you. Additionally, examine your trees and shrubbery for any dead or loose branches and trim them if necessary.
- Car – When you're caught up in safeguarding your residence from a hurricane, it's understandable that you forget about your vehicle. Make sure that your vehicle is filled with gas, that your tires aren't worn down, the windows are sealed 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 prone to flooding.
