A Homeowners Method to Protecting a House from a Hurricane
Natural disasters can occur without a moment's notice, but hurricanes can at least be discovered before they hit your area. When it's hurricane season, it's necessary to do some preparation. Since your home is one of your biggest assets, it's a smart idea to do what you can to prevent the damages that hurricanes can bring to your house and to prevent any storm damage repair. There are a lot of things to keep in mind when safeguarding your house for the ensuing storm. To protect your house from a hurricane, use the methods listed below.How to Plan for a Hurricane
- Garage Door – If your house has a garage, this might be one of the first things to take care of. High winds can permeate the typical residential garage door because they're not built with the extra support. What can take place is the wind will create a positive push inside your garage, and the wind outside of it causes a negative pull. When this happens, your roof and garage will undergo a lot of pressure because of this push-pull instance. To avoid an excessive storm damage repair, you can buy a kit that will help your garage door withstand hurricane conditions. This is the most efficient step, but if time isn't on your side, then you can use your automobile to help support your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – Water damage is one of the most common perils associated with hurricanes, and when your windows and doors aren't protected this will allow the storm to move in your home. Before the storm reaches your location, make sure your shutters are sturdy and in a working condition. The latches need to be secure and you'll also want to install locks on them. If you don't have storm shutters for your windows, then you can board them up with some OSB. A common misconception with window prep is that you can place masking tape on the window; however, this doesn't secure it at all. Additionally, make sure your doors are sturdy and that the deadbolts are functioning right. You can also brace your doors for added measure.
- Roof – Inspecting your roof is vital before a hurricane passes through your area, and it can defend against property damage and give you peace-of-mind. A good beginning point is to locate damaged shingles and use some roofing cement to repair them. Afterward, look for any exposed gaps where any wiring is entering in your home and seal them off. Small gaps might not seem like a problem, but sealing them off can block water from getting into your house. You might want to think about obtaining hurricane straps to make sure your roof is secure too. Another thing to do is clear out your gutters so there's suitable irrigation for the heavy rains.
- Your Property – It's essential to clear your yard of any loose items such as patio furniture, children's toys and other miscellaneous garden items. If it can be lifted from a heavy gust of wind, then relocate it to a secure location so it doesn't cause damage to your house and others' around you. Additionally, check your trees for any dangling or dead limbs and trim them if necessary.
- Car – Aside from your house, you should also take precautions with your automobile. Don't park your vehicle under any trees or in a spot that floods easily. If you keep your vehicle on the street, you should really be cautious of where you park. Furthermore, do some prep work too, like: making sure your gas tank is full, your windshield wipers are in good condition, your tires have good tread and that your windows are sealed properly.