Getting Your House Ready for a Hurricane - Storm Damage Prevention
Natural disasters can materialize without a moment's notice, but hurricanes can at least be revealed before they hit your area. Hurricane season is a time for preparation. Because your home is one of your biggest assets, it's a good idea to do what you can to avoid the perils that hurricanes can bring to your home and to avoid any storm damage restoration. There are many things to keep in mind when preparing your home for a hurricane. To secure your home from a hurricane, follow the steps below.Essential Methods in Hurricane Precautions
- Garage Door – To avoid any major 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 designed to combat hurricane conditions, so it's essential to purchase a support kit. By bracing your garage door, you'll fight against the winds that generate a positive push in your space. This is crucial since the winds that develop outside will generate a negative pull above 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 an effective way to avoid major damage. However, if it's too late to install braces, you can use your vehicle to brace your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – Windows and doors are another entrance for a storm to create chaos. Shattered windows will allow rain and wind to move through your home, and this can cause water damage problems. When a storm is imminent, make sure you lock your windows. If you have storm shutters installed, make sure they are closed and locked, but if you don't have storm shutters, you can board up your windows to keep possible damage out of your residence. Also, keep in mind that sticking masking tape on your windows doesn't protect them at all. Concerning your doors, lock the deadbolts or any other locks to verify they don't fly open during heavy wind gusts.
- Roof – Make sure to inspect your roof for any damaged shingles and other vulnerable spots. You can use roof cement to secure any loose shingles, and you should consider hurricane straps to make sure your roof is fastened to your house. Also, you'll want to seal any areas where wires come into your home to avoid any water damage from occurring. While you're checking out your roof, check to see if your gutters are cleaned out. Proper irrigation is vital for directing water away from your home during the heavy rains.
- Your Property – Have a stroll through your lawn before the storm hits. Your trees and shrubs need attention and might require some pruning. Any dead or loose limbs can be hazardous in high winds and could cause a lot of damage to your home. This pertains to items on your property such as patio furniture as well. Relocate any loose items to a secure area before the wind takes them away.
- Car – Your vehicle can easily be forgotten when you're prepping your home for a storm. But it's important to get your vehicle ready as well, so check that you have: a full tank of gas, good windshield wipers, good tires and your windows sealed. Additionally, be mindful of where you park your vehicle, especially if you rely on street parking. Make sure your car isn't beneath any trees or in an area that's susceptible to flooding.