Hurricane Defense – Preparing Your House from Potential Damage

Ruined structures, water damage and flooding are the typical scenarios for a post-hurricane environment. However, there are some essential precautions you can execute in order to prevent these scenarios and any major storm damage repairs. It's important to do whatever you can to secure your home from a hurricane and to keep your loved ones and your neighbors secure. Below is a list of practices to keep in mind when securing your home against Mother Nature.

Ways to Prepare for a Hurricane

  • Garage Door – Begin with your garage if your residence has one, because this is one of the more susceptible areas for storm damage. Typically, garage doors don't have the support to brace strong winds. What can take place is the wind will create a positive push inside your garage, and the wind outside of the structure creates a negative pull. When this occurs, your roof and garage will undergo a lot of pressure because of this tug-of-war instance. To defend from a major storm damage repair, you can purchase a kit that will help your garage door resist hurricane conditions. This is the most efficient 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 – Windows and doors are another access-point for a hurricane to cause havoc. Damaged windows will allow wind and rain to enter into your house, and this can cause water damage problems. When a hurricane is imminent, make sure you lock your windows. If you have storm shutters, ensure they are in good condition and locked, but if you don't have storm shutters, you can board up your windows to keep potential damage out of your residence. Additionally, keep in mind that placing masking tape on your windows won't secure them at all. As for your doors, lock the deadbolts or any other locks to ensure they don't pop open during heavy wind gusts.
  • Roof – Make sure to go over your roof for any damaged shingles and other vulnerable spots. You can use roof cement to mend any loose shingles, and you should consider hurricane straps to ensure your roof is secure to your house. Additionally, you'll want to seal any areas where wires enter into your house to prevent any water damage from happening. While you're inspecting your roof, check to see if your gutters are cleaned out. You want to make sure you have good irrigation for the heavy rains that happen during a hurricane.
  • Your Property – The land outside of your property can be a primary threat when a hurricane comes through. Items that aren't weighed down or fastened to the ground could be picked from the high wind and be launched into your residence and your neighbor's too. Walk around your lawn and relocate any children's toys, patio furniture, BBQs and garden accessories to an area out of harm's way. Another thing you need to do is cut back any loose or dead limbs from your shrubs and trees.
  • Car – Along with your home, it's necessary to take precautions with your automobile. Don't park your car under any trees or in a spot that is prone to flooding. If you rely on street parking, you should really be careful of where you park. Additionally, prepare your car, such as: making sure your tank is full, your windshield wipers are working, your tires aren't worn out and that your windows are sealed properly.

Paul Davis' Hurricane Damage Cleanup & Repair Services

Despite all the preventative measures you take in protecting your home, there is only so much you can do against storm damages. If your house succumbs to damage generated from a hurricane, contact the professionals at Paul Davis. Our storm damage repair and remediation services will get your house back to the condition it was before. Additionally, we work with different insurance companies and we can offer guidance and help you verify if your damage is covered. Get in touch with Paul Davis today at +1-403-696-8886 to locate a franchise near your location.