A Homeowners Approach to Securing a House from a Hurricane
Water damage, flooding and ruined structures are the usual cases after a hurricane hits. However, there are some fundamental steps you can execute in order to avoid these incidents and any major storm damage repairs. It's crucial to do what you can to defend your house from a hurricane and to keep your loved ones and your neighbors safe. Below is a list of practices to keep in mind while protecting your property against the elements.Things to Plan When a Hurricane Approaches
- Garage Door – In fact, your garage is really one of the more susceptible places when it comes to heavy storms like hurricanes. The explanation: the average garage door is not reinforced and heavy winds can get into the area. When this happens, a positive push generates in the garage, and as the winds are whirling above your structure, this creates a negative pull. A push-pull combination develops, and this can place a lot of pressure on your roof and eventually tear it off. To combat this from happening, the best method is to purchase a kit that supports your garage door. Although, if time isn't on your side to install a kit, then you can use your automobile to brace your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – Busted 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 significant structural damage. Storm shutters are an effective way to protect your property during a hurricane. When a hurricane is imminent, ensure the latches are working correctly and you may want to consider adding additional locks for added protection. You can also cover your windows with OSB if you don't have storm shutters, but it's critical to know that putting masking tape on your windows won't do anything in a heavy storm. After your windows are protected, move to your doors next. Make sure they're strong and that the deadbolts are functioning right.
- Roof – Your roof acts as a primary defense against Mother Nature, and that's why it's vital to ensure it's ready for a hurricane. Look out for any loose shingles and repair them with roofing concrete. You'll also want irrigation for the pouring rains, so clear out your gutters so the water doesn't accumulate on your roof. You can then check out any wires that are entering into your property and seal off any susceptible gaps to stop water damage from occurring. Finally, judge whether it's imperative to protect your roof with hurricane straps.
- Your Property – It's important to clear your lawn of any loose items like children's toys, garden accessories and patio furniture. If the item can be picked up from a strong wind storm, then clear it out and put it in a safe location so it doesn't cause damage to your property and others' around you. Furthermore, inspect your trees and shrubbery for any dead or loose branches and trim them if they need it.
- Car – When you're caught up in protecting your property from a hurricane, it's understandable that you forget about your automobile. Make sure that you have a full tank of gas, that your tires have good tread, the windows are up and that your windshield wipers are good. If you park your automobile on the street, you'll want to check that you're not parked under any trees or in a location that is vulnerable to flooding.