A Homeowners Approach to Defending a Home from a Hurricane

Damages produced from hurricanes can be disastrous for your house. The extreme weather conditions can harm any house, such as smash windows, separate roofs and knock over trees. Your house is also vulnerable to water damage and flooding from the heavy rains. Yet, there are preventative measures you can take to safeguard your property from strong storms. Follow the practices listed below to make sure you, your family and your property is secure from a hurricane and to avoid extreme storm damage restoration.

Ways to Prepare for a Hurricane

  • Garage Door – If your property has a garage, this may be one of the first things to take care of. Most garage doors don't have the support to brace high winds. What can happen is the wind will produce a positive push inside your garage, and the wind outside of the structure causes a negative pull. When this occurs, your roof and garage will sustain a lot of pressure because of this tug-of-war instance. To avoid an excessive storm damage restoration, you can purchase a kit that will help your garage door hold off hurricane conditions. This is the most effective step, but if you don't have the time to install a kit, then you can use your car to help brace your garage door.
  • Windows and Doors – Water damage is one of the most frequent impairments associated with hurricanes, and when your windows and doors aren't secure this will allow the storm to get into your house. When a hurricane is approaching, verify that your shutters are durable and in a working condition. The latches should be strong and it might be necessary to put additional locks on them. If your property doesn't have storm shutters for your windows, then you can board them up with some OSB. One wrong idea that's been taught for window prep is that you can tape up the window; but this doesn't help at all. Also, verify that your doors are in strong condition and that the deadbolts are working right. You can also use braces on your doors for added measure.
  • Roof – Inspecting your roof is important before a hurricane passes through your location, and it can defend against property damage and give you a sense of well-being. The main thing you'll want to look for is damaged shingles and use some roofing cement to fix them. Afterward, look for any threatening gaps where any wiring is coming into your house and seal them off. Small gaps may not seem like a problem, but sealing them off can block water from entering your property. You might want to think about obtaining hurricane straps to confirm your roof is fastened as well. Also, you'll want to unclog your gutters so there's proper irrigation for the strong rains.
  • Your Property – Take a walk around your property prior to the storm. Your trees and shrubs need treatment and might require some trimming. Any dead or dangling limbs can be dangerous in high winds and could cause a lot of damage to your property. This also consists of items in your yard like patio furniture too. Transport any loose items to a secure area before the wind takes them away.
  • Car – Aside from your property, you should also take preventative measures with your car. Don't park your vehicle under any trees or in an area that is vulnerable to flooding. If you park on the street, you should really be cautious of where you park. Additionally, prepare your vehicle, 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.

Paul Davis - Your Hurricane Damage Restoration Experts

Despite all the necessary steps you take in securing your property, there is only so much you can do. If your house succumbs to damage caused by a hurricane, reach out to the experts at Paul Davis. Our storm and hurricane damage repair and remediation services will get your house back to the condition it was before. We also work with different insurance companies and we can help you determine if your damage is covered. Reach out to Paul Davis today at +1-403-696-8886 to locate a franchise near your location.