How to Protect Your House from a Hurricane – Prevent Storm Damage

Natural disasters can take place at any time, but hurricanes can at least be detected before they hit your location. Preparation and planning are very important things you can do when a hurricane comes around. Because your house is one of your most valuable assets, it’s a smart idea to do what you can to avoid the damages that hurricanes can bring to your home and to avoid any storm damage repair. There are a lot of things to keep in mind when safeguarding your home for the big storm. To secure your home from a hurricane, use the approaches listed below.

How to Brace for a Hurricane

  • Garage Door – If your home has a garage, this may be one of the first things to take care of. Typically, garage doors don’t have the support to combat strong winds. What can take place is the wind will generate a positive push inside your garage, and the wind outside of it creates a negative pull. When this occurs, your garage and roof will undergo a lot of pressure because of this push-pull situation. To prevent a major storm damage repair, you can buy braces that will help your garage door fight hurricane conditions. This is the most efficient step, but if you don’t have the time to install a kit, then you can use your automobile to help support your garage door.
  • Windows and Doors – A common occurrence that’s correlated with hurricanes is water damage, and when your windows and doors aren’t secure this will allow the wind and rain to move in your house. When a hurricane is imminent, make sure your shutters are sturdy and in a working condition. The latches on your shutters should be secure and you’ll also want to install locks on them. If your home doesn’t have storm shutters for your windows, then you can board them up with some OSB. One wrong impression that’s been taught for window preparation is that you can tape up the window; but this won’t help at all. Additionally, ensure your doors are sturdy and that the deadbolts are working correctly. You can also install braces on your doors for extra security.
  • Roof – Administering a quick checkup on your roof prior to a hurricane can save you from a lot of property damage. A good beginning point is to check for loose shingles and apply some roofing cement to repair them. Afterward, check to see if there are threatening gaps where any wiring is entering in your house and seal them. Small gaps might not seem like an issue, but sealing them off can block water from getting into your home. You might want to think about obtaining hurricane straps to verify your roof is secure too. Additionally, you’ll want to clean out your gutters so there’s appropriate irrigation for the strong rains.
  • Your Property – The exterior of your property can be a primary risk when a hurricane hits your town. Any loose items could be lifted from the extreme wind and be heaved into your residence and your neighbor’s as well. Walk around your property and relocate any BBQs, garden accessories, children’s toys and patio furniture to a place out of harm’s way. One other thing you’ll want to do is remove any loose or dead branches from your trees and shrubs.
  • Car – Along with your property, it’s necessary to take preventative measures with your automobile. Don’t park your car under any trees or in a spot that is susceptible to flooding. If you rely on street parking, you should really be watchful of where you park during a hurricane. Furthermore, do some prep work as well, like: ensuring your gas tank is full, your windshield wipers are working, your tires aren’t worn out and that your windows are sealed correctly.

Who We Are

Despite all the preventative measures you take in defending your home, there is only so much you can do. If your property succumbs to damage generated from a hurricane, call the experts at Paul Davis. Our storm damage repair and remediation services will get your property back to a healthy condition. We also work with various insurance companies and we can help you verify if your damage is covered. Call Paul Davis today at 989-894-4450 to find a franchise near your location.