A Homeowners Method to Defending a Home from a Hurricane
Water damage, flooding and ruined structures are the common scenarios after a hurricane hits. Yet, there are some essential approaches you can take in order to avoid these scenarios and any excessive storm damage restorations. It's important to do what you can to defend your home from a hurricane and to keep your loved ones and your neighbors safe. Listed below are things to keep in mind when protecting your home against Mother Nature.Ways to Brace for a Hurricane
- Garage Door – To avoid any major storm damage restorations, your garage door should be one of the first things to take care. Most of the garage doors in residential neighborhoods aren't designed to combat hurricane conditions, so it's important to buy a support kit. By bracing your garage door, you'll have defense against the winds that generate a positive push in your garage. This is integral because the winds outside will cause a negative pull above your garage. When this happens, you'll get a push-pull scenario which puts a lot of stress on your garage and roof. Getting a support kit for your garage door is an effective way to prevent major damage. But, if don't have the time to install braces, you can use your car to support your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – A common occurrence that's associated with hurricanes is water damage, and when your windows and doors aren't protected this will allow the wind and rain to get into your house. Before the storm reaches your area, make sure your shutters are sturdy and in a working condition. The latches on your shutters should be stable and it may be necessary to install locks on them. Boarding up your windows is also an effective method if you don't have shutters. A common misconception with window preparation is that you can tape up the window; however, this doesn't help at all. Additionally, ensure your doors are durable and that the deadbolts are functioning correctly. You can also brace your doors for added measure.
- Roof – A roof checkup is crucial, and you should look out for any damaged shingles and other vulnerable areas. You can use roof cement to repair any loose shingles, and you should consider getting hurricane straps to ensure your roof is secure to your house. Additionally, it's a good idea to seal any areas where wires enter into your house to prevent any water damage from happening. While you're inspecting your roof, check to see if your gutters are clogged. Proper irrigation is crucial for water run-off during the hurricane.
- Your Property – The outside of your property can be a number one hazard when a hurricane comes through. Any loose items could be picked from the extreme wind and be launched into your house and your neighbor's too. Walk around your property and move any patio furniture, BBQs, garden accessories and children's toys to a location safe from the storm. Another thing you'll want to do is remove any dangling or dead limbs from your trees and shrubs.
- Car – Your vehicle can easily be forgotten when you're protecting your home for a storm. But it's just as crucial to get your vehicle ready too, so make sure you have: your gas tank filled, good windshield wipers, tires with good tread and your windows sealed. Additionally, be cautious of where you park, 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.