A Homeowners Method to Securing a Home from a Hurricane
Flooding, structural loss and water damage are the usual scenarios for a post-hurricane environment. Yet, there are some fundamental approaches you can take in order to avoid these incidents and any major 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 practices to keep in mind when preparing your home against the elements.Ways to Brace for a Hurricane
- Garage Door – To avoid any extreme storm damage restorations, your garage door should be one of the primary things to take care. Most of the garage doors in residential neighborhoods aren't installed to fight hurricane conditions, so it's essential to purchase a brace kit. Through bracing your garage door, you'll have defense against the winds that generate a positive push in your garage. This is critical because the winds outside will cause a negative pull over your garage. When this happens, you'll get a tug-of-war scenario which puts a lot of pressure on your garage and roof. Getting a brace kit for your garage door is the most effective approach to prevent major damage. However, if don't have the time to install the garage door kit, you can use your car to brace your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – Windows and doors are another access-point for a storm to cause disruption. Busted windows will allow rain and wind to move through your home, and this can cause water damage problems. When a storm is on the way, make sure you lock your windows. If you have storm shutters installed, ensure they are closed and locked, but if you don't have storm shutters, you can board up your windows to keep potential destruction out of your house. Additionally, keep in mind that sticking masking tape on your windows won't protect them at all. Regarding your doors, lock the deadbolts or any other locks to verify they don't pop open during heavy wind gusts.
- Roof – Your roof acts as a number one defense against the elements, and that's why it's critical to ensure it's prepared for a hurricane. Locate any loose shingles and mend them with roofing concrete. You'll also want irrigation for the strong rains, so unclog your gutters so the water doesn't concentrate on your roof. You can then find any wires that are going into your home and seal off any unprotected gaps to prevent water damage from happening. Finally, assess whether it's required to protect your roof with hurricane straps.
- Your Property – Strolling through your lawn is another critical step you should take. Your trees and shrubs need consideration and might require some pruning. Any dangling or dead limbs can be hazardous in high winds and could cause some damage to your home. This includes items on your lawn like patio furniture as well. Relocate any items that aren't secured to the ground or weighed down to a secure area before the wind takes them away.
- Car – Aside from your home, it's necessary to take precautions with your car. Don't park your vehicle under any trees or in an area that is prone to flooding. If you rely on street parking, you should really be watchful of where you park. Additionally, do some prep work as well, like: ensuring your tank is full, your windshield wipers are in good condition, your tires aren't worn out and that your windows are sealed properly.
