How to Secure Your Home from a Hurricane – Prevent Storm Damage
Damages produced from hurricanes can be destructive for your property. The extreme weather conditions can impair any property, such as smash windows, separate roofs and knock over trees and shrubs. Your property is also prone to water damage from the heavy rains. However, there are preventative measures you can take to secure your home from heavy storms. Follow the guidelines below to assure you, your family and your property is defended from a hurricane and to avoid excessive storm damage repairs.
Ways to Plan for a Hurricane
- Garage Door – Start with your garage if your home has one, because this is one of the most vulnerable sections for storm damage. Strong winds can pass through the standard residential garage door because they’re not built with the needed support. What can take place is the wind will generate a positive push inside your garage, and the wind outside of the structure causes a negative pull. When this occurs, your garage and roof will sustain a lot of pressure because of this push-pull situation. To defend from an excessive storm damage restoration, you can buy braces that will help your garage door fight hurricane conditions. This is the most effective method, but if you don’t have the time to install a kit, then you can use your car to help support your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – A typical occurrence that’s associated with hurricanes is water damage, and when your windows and doors aren’t protected this will allow the storm to get into your home. When a hurricane is imminent, check that your shutters are sturdy and in a working condition. The latches on your shutters need to be secure and you’ll also want to install locks on them. You can also cover your windows with some OSB if you don’t have storm shutters. A typical fallacy with window prep is that you can tape up the window; however, this won’t defend it at all. Additionally, verify that your doors are sturdy and that the deadbolts are functioning right. You can also install braces on your doors for extra security.
- Roof – Make sure to inspect your roof for any loose shingles and other vulnerable spots. Get some roof cement to fix any loose shingles, and you should consider getting hurricane straps to make sure your roof is secure to your home. Additionally, you’ll want to seal any areas where wires enter into your home to avoid any water damage from happening. While you’re analyzing your roof, check to see if your gutters are clear of debris. Suitable irrigation is crucial for water run-off during the heavy rains.
- Your Property – It’s significant to clear your yard of any loose items like patio furniture, children’s toys and other miscellaneous garden items. 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 home and others’ around you. Furthermore, inspect your trees for any dead or loose branches and trim them if they need it.
- Car – Your car can easily be forgotten when you’re securing your property for a hurricane. But it’s a good idea to get your car ready too, so make sure you have: a full tank of gas, working windshield wipers, good tires and your windows sealed properly. Also, be aware of where you park your car, especially if you rely on street parking. Make sure your vehicle isn’t beneath any trees or in a location that’s prone to flooding.
Paul Davis’ Hurricane Damage Cleanup & Restoration Services
Damages caused by hurricanes can be catastrophic, and there is only so much you can do to protect your property. If you’re in need of storm damage repair services, contact Paul Davis. We can restore your house quickly. You can rely on the expert storm damage repair team at Paul Davis. Get in touch with us today at 989-894-4450 and a franchise in your area will be there to get the job done.