How to Protect Your House from a Hurricane – Prevent Storm Damage
Flooding, structural loss and water damage are the typical scenarios for a post-hurricane environment. Nevertheless, there are a few important steps you can take in order to avoid these scenarios and any excessive storm damage repairs. It's important to do what you can to secure your home from a hurricane and to keep your loved ones and your neighbors protected. Below is a list of methods to keep in mind while safeguarding your house against the elements.How to Plan for a Hurricane
- Garage Door – If you have a garage, this may be one of the first things to take care of. Strong winds can penetrate the standard residential garage door because they're not built with the needed support. What can take place is the wind will produce a positive push inside your garage, and the wind outside of it causes a negative pull. When this takes place, your roof and garage will sustain a lot of pressure because of this push-pull instance. To avoid an excessive storm damage restoration, you can buy a kit that will help your garage door combat hurricane conditions. This is the most effective approach, 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 – Damaged windows don't only allow the rain to get into your residence, but the wind that comes in can put a lot of pressure under your roof, which can lead to excessive structural damage. Storm shutters are a great way to defend your house during a storm. When a storm is at hand, ensure the latches on your shutters are functioning correctly and you may want to consider adding additional locks for added measure. You can also cover your windows with OSB if you don't have storm shutters, but it's important to note that putting masking tape on your windows won't do anything to defend your home from a hurricane. After your windows are protected, move to your doors next. Make sure they're stable and that the deadbolts are functioning right.
- Roof – Your roof is a number one defense against the elements, and that's why it's crucial to ensure it's ready for a hurricane. Search for any damaged shingles and mend them with roofing concrete. You'll also want irrigation for the pouring rains, so clean out your gutters so the water doesn't accumulate on your roof. You can then check out any wires that are entering into your home and seal off any susceptible gaps to stop water damage from happening. Lastly, figure out whether it's imperative to protect your roof with hurricane straps.
- Your Property – It's important to clear your yard of any loose items like patio furniture, children's toys and other miscellaneous garden items. If the item can be lifted from a heavy gust of wind, then clear it out and put it in a secure location so it doesn't cause damage to your home and others' around you. Additionally, check your trees for any dead or loose branches and trim them if necessary.
- Car – Aside from your home, you should also take preventative measures with your car. Don't park your vehicle beneath any trees or in a spot that is prone to flooding. If you rely on street parking, you should really be cautious of where you park during a hurricane. Furthermore, do some prep work too, like: making sure your gas tank is full, your windshield wipers are in good condition, your tires aren't worn out and that your windows are sealed correctly.
