Hurricane Defense – Prepping Your House from Probable Disaster
Damage produced from hurricanes can be destructive for your residence. The huge gusts of winds can shatter windows, separate roofs and knock over trees and shrubs. Your residence is also susceptible to water damage from downpours. Still, there are preventative measures you can take to protect your property from strong storms. Follow the methods listed below to assure you, your family and your property is defended from a hurricane and to avoid the need for storm damage repairs.Hurricane Planning Checklist - Best Approaches to Prevent Storm Damage
- Garage Door – In fact, your garage is actually one of the most susceptible spots when it comes to heavy storms such as hurricanes. The explanation: most garage doors are not reinforced and strong winds can get into the area. When this happens, a positive push generates in the garage, and as the winds are whirling above it, this creates a negative pull. A push-pull combination develops, and this can place a lot of stress on your roof and eventually tear it off. To combat this from taking place, the best approach is to buy a kit that supports your garage door. But if time isn't on your side to put in a garage door kit, then you can utilize your vehicle to brace your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – The other susceptible areas in your property are your entrances such as your windows and doors. Broken windows will allow wind and rain to move through your property, and this can cause water damage problems. When a storm is on the way, make sure you lock and secure your windows. If you have storm shutters, make sure they are functioning and locked, but if you don't have storm shutters, you can board up your windows to keep possible damage out of your home. Also, remember that placing masking tape on your windows won't defend them at all. Regarding your doors, use the deadbolts or any other locks to make sure they don't fly open during strong wind gusts.
- Roof – A roof checkup is crucial, and you should locate for any damaged shingles and other susceptible areas. Get some roof cement to mend any loose shingles, and you should consider getting hurricane straps to make sure your roof is secure to your house. Also, you'll want to seal any areas where wires come into your home to avoid any water damage from happening. While you're checking out your roof, this is a good time to see if your gutters are clogged. You want to make sure you have appropriate irrigation for the heavy rains that occur during a hurricane.
- Your Property – Your yard can be a number one threat when a hurricane hits your town. Items that aren't weighed down or fastened to the ground could be picked from the high wind and be launched into your home and your neighbor's as well. Make sure to move any patio furniture, BBQs, garden accessories and children's toys to a location safe from the storm. One other thing you'll want to do is cut back any dangling or dead branches from your trees and shrubs.
- Car – Aside from your property, you should also take preventative measures with your vehicle. Don't park your vehicle beneath any trees or in an area that is susceptible to flooding. If you rely on street parking, you should really be careful of where you park during a hurricane. Furthermore, do some prep work as well, such as: making sure your tank is full, your windshield wipers are in good condition, your tires aren't worn out and that your windows are sealed properly.