Hurricane Defense – Bracing Your Home from Possible Damage
Water damage, flooding and structural loss are the typical scenarios after a hurricane hits. However, there are some fundamental steps you can take in order to avoid these incidents and any excessive storm damage repairs. It's crucial to do anything you can to defend your house from a hurricane and to keep your loved ones and your neighbors protected. Below is a list of approaches to keep in mind while defending your property against the elements.Hurricane Preparation Checklist
- Garage Door – If you have a garage, this may be one of the first things to take care of. High winds can get through the standard residential garage door because they're not built with the needed support. What can take place is the wind will create a positive push in your garage, and the wind outside of it creates a negative pull. When this occurs, your garage and roof will endure a lot of stress because of this tug-of-war situation. To defend from a major storm damage restoration, you can purchase a kit that will help your garage door resist hurricane conditions. This is the most trustworthy method, but if time isn't on your side, then you can use your vehicle to help brace your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – Water damage is one of the more frequent hardships associated with hurricanes, and when your doors and windows aren't protected this will allow the wind and rain to move in your house. Before the storm hits, make sure your shutters are sturdy and in a functional condition. The latches on your shutters need to be stable and it may be necessary to put additional locks on them. If you don't have shutters for your windows, then you can cover them up. One wrong idea that's been taught for window prep is that you can use masking tape on the window; but this won't help at all. Additionally, make sure your doors are sturdy and that the deadbolts are functioning properly. You can also brace your doors for added measure.
- Roof – A roof checkup is important, and you should look out for any out of place shingles and other susceptible areas. Get some roof cement to secure any loose shingles, and you should consider hurricane straps to ensure your roof is fastened to your home. Also, you'll want to seal any areas where wires enter into your house to avoid any water damage from happening. While you're inspecting your roof, check to see if your gutters are clogged. Proper irrigation is crucial for directing water away from your property during the hurricane.
- Your Property – It's essential to clear your lawn of any loose items such as patio furniture, children's toys and other miscellaneous garden items. If the item can be lifted from a strong wind storm, then relocate it to a safe area so it doesn't cause damage to your home and others' around you. Furthermore, inspect your trees for any dangling or dead branches and trim them if they need it.
- Car – Your car can easily be forgotten when you're prepping your home for a storm. But it's just as crucial to get your car ready as well, so ensure you have: your gas tank filled, working windshield wipers, tires with good tread and your windows sealed. Furthermore, be attentive of where you park your car, especially if you rely on street parking. Check that your car isn't beneath any trees or in a location that's prone to flooding.