Getting Your House Ready for a Hurricane - Storm Damage Prevention
Natural disasters can take place without a moment's notice, but hurricanes can at least be observed prior to hitting your location. Preparation and planning are very fundamental things you can execute when hurricane season comes around. Since your house is one of your most valuable assets, it's a good idea to do what you can to avoid the damages that hurricanes can bring to your property and to avoid any storm damage repair. There are lots of things to check up on when prepping your property for the big storm. To safeguard your property from a hurricane, follow the methods listed below.Fundamental Methods in Hurricane Precautions
- Garage Door – To avoid any extreme storm damage restorations, your garage door should be one of the first things to take care. Most of the garage doors on the market aren't installed to defend against hurricane conditions, so it's important to buy a support kit. By bracing your garage door, you'll fight against the winds that cause a positive push in your garage. This is significant because the winds that develop 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. Supporting your garage door with braces is the most effective approach to avoid major damage. However, if don't have the time to install braces, you can use your car to brace your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – Doors and windows are another entrance for a storm to cause havoc. Broken windows will allow rain and wind to enter into your property, and this can lead to 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 in good condition and locked, but if you don't have storm shutters, you can board up your windows to keep potential destruction out of your residence. Also, remember that placing masking tape on your windows won't do anything to secure them. Regarding your doors, lock the deadbolts or any other locking mechanisms to confirm they don't pop open during heavy wind gusts.
- Roof – Conducting a quick analysis of your roof before a hurricane comes to your location can save you from excessive property damage. A good starting point is to locate loose shingles and apply some roofing cement to repair them. Afterward, look for any unprotected gaps where any wiring is coming into your house and seal them. Small gaps may not seem like an issue, but sealing them off can bar any water from getting into your property. You might want to think about obtaining hurricane straps to verify your roof is secure as well. Also, you'll want to unclog your gutters so there's good irrigation for the heavy rains.
- 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 relocate it to a safe location so it doesn't cause damage to your property and others' around you. Additionally, check your trees for any dead or loose limbs and trim them if necessary.
- 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 susceptible to flooding. If you keep your vehicle on the street, you should really be careful of where you park during a hurricane. Additionally, prepare your vehicle, such as: ensuring your gas tank is full, your windshield wipers are working, your tires aren't worn out and that your windows are sealed properly.
