How to Protect Your Home from a Hurricane – Prevent Storm Damage
Natural disasters can materialize at any time, but hurricanes can at least be observed before they hit your area. Preparation and planning are very essential things you can do when a hurricane approaches. Since your house is one of your most valuable assets, it's a smart idea to do what you can to prevent the perils that hurricanes can bring to your home and to prevent any storm damage repair. There are lots of things to check up on when safeguarding your house for a hurricane. To protect your house from a hurricane, follow the methods listed below.Things to Keep in Mind When a Hurricane Is Scheduled
- Garage Door – In fact, your garage is actually one of the more susceptible spots when it comes to heavy weather conditions such as hurricanes. The reason why: most garage doors are not supported and strong winds can get into the garage. When this happens, a positive push generates in the garage, and as the winds are churning above your structure, this creates a negative pull. With the push-pull combination, this can place a lot of stress on your roof and eventually it could tear it off your garage. To combat this from taking place, the best approach is to purchase a kit that braces your garage door. But if time isn't on your side to install a kit, then you can utilize your vehicle to brace your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – Water damage is one of the more common impairments tied to hurricanes, and when your doors and windows aren't safeguarded this will allow the wind and rain to move in your house. Before the storm hits, make sure your shutters are sturdy and in a working condition. The latches on your shutters should be secure and you'll also want to put additional locks on them. Boarding up your windows is also a great idea if you don't have storm shutters. A typical misconception with window prep is that you can tape up the window; however, this won't help at all. Additionally, make sure your doors are sturdy and that the deadbolts are functioning properly. You can also brace your doors for added measure.
- Roof – Inspecting your roof is vital before a hurricane passes through your area, and it can help you avoid property damage and provide you peace-of-mind. One of the main things you'll want to check for is damaged shingles and use some roofing cement to repair them. Afterward, check to see if there are exposed gaps where any wiring is entering in your house and seal them off. This can prevent water from entering your house. You might want to consider getting hurricane straps to ensure your roof is fastened as well. Another thing to do is unclog your gutters so there's good irrigation for the strong rains.
- Your Property – Have a stroll through your yard prior to the storm. Your shrubs and trees need consideration and might necessitate some trimming. Any dead or loose branches can be hazardous in extreme winds and could cause excessive damage to your home. This pertains to items on your property such as patio furniture as well. Transfer any loose items to a safe place before the wind can take them.
- Car – Aside from your house, you should also take precautions with your vehicle. Don't park your vehicle beneath any trees or in an area that floods easily. If you park on the street, you should really be careful of where you park. Additionally, do some prep work as well, such as: making sure your gas tank is full, your windshield wipers are working, your tires have good tread and that your windows are sealed properly.
