A Homeowners Approach to Securing a Home from a Hurricane

Damages induced by hurricanes can be devastating for your residence. The strong winds can break windows, tear apart roofs and uproot trees. Your residence is also susceptible to water damage from the heavy rains. Yet, there are preventative measures you can take to safeguard your home from heavy storms. Follow the methods listed below to ensure you, your family and your home is secure from a hurricane and to prevent the need for storm damage repairs.

Hurricane Planning Checklist - Best Steps to Prevent Storm Damage

  • Garage Door – Start with your garage if your residence has one, because this is one of the most susceptible areas for storm damage. High winds can permeate the typical residential garage door because they're not built with the extra support. What can take place is the wind will bring about a positive push inside your garage, and the wind outside of it causes a negative pull. When this takes place, your garage and roof will undergo a lot of stress because of this push-pull situation. To defend from an excessive storm damage restoration, you can buy braces that will help your garage door withstand hurricane conditions. This is the most effective method, but if time isn't on your side, then you can use your automobile to help brace your garage door.
  • Windows and Doors – Windows and doors are another entry-point for a hurricane to create chaos. Broken windows will allow wind and rain to move through your home, and this can cause water damage issues. When a hurricane is on the way, make sure you lock and secure your windows. If you have storm shutters installed, ensure they are functioning and locked, but if you don't have storm shutters, you can board up your windows to keep probable destruction out of your residence. Also, remember that sticking masking tape on your windows won't do anything to protect them. Regarding your doors, utilize the deadbolts or any other locking mechanisms to confirm they don't pop open during heavy wind gusts.
  • Roof – A roof examination is crucial, and you should locate for any damaged shingles and other susceptible spots. Get some roof cement to fix any loose shingles, and you should consider getting hurricane straps to ensure your roof is fastened to your house. Also, it's a good idea to seal any areas where wires enter into your house to prevent any water damage from occurring. While you're analyzing your roof, this is a good time to see if your gutters are cleaned out. Suitable irrigation is crucial for directing water away from your house during the hurricane.
  • Your Property – Walking around your yard is another necessary measure you should take. Your shrubs and trees need some attention and might necessitate some pruning. Any dangling or dead branches can be threatening in windy conditions and could cause some damage to your home. This also consists of items on your property such as patio furniture too. Move any loose items to a safe location before the wind can take them.
  • Car – When you're caught up in safeguarding your property from a hurricane, it's easy to forget about your car. Ensure that you have a full tank of gas, that your tires are in good condition, the windows are up and that your windshield wipers are working. If you have to park on the street, you'll want to verify that you're not parked under trees or in a location that is vulnerable to flooding.

Reach Out to Paul Davis for Storm Damage Restoration

Paul Davis offers storm damage restoration and remediation services, so if your property has been harmed by a hurricane, call our expert team. Unfortunately, there is only so much you can do to combat Mother Nature. We can fix and restore your home back to normal, and we work with different home insurers. We can help you figure out what's covered under your insurance. To locate a Paul Davis franchise near your location, give us a call at +1-403-696-8886.