Natural disasters can happen at any time, but hurricanes can at least be revealed before they hit your location. Preparation and planning are very effective things you can execute when hurricane season approaches. Since your home is one of your biggest expenses, it’s a good idea to do what you can to avoid the damages that hurricanes can bring to your home and to prevent any storm damage restoration. There are a lot of things to keep in mind when prepping your house for the big storm. To defend your house from a hurricane, follow the steps below.
Things to Keep in Mind When a Hurricane Is Scheduled
- Garage Door – If your house has a garage, this might be one of the first things you need to prep. Strong winds can penetrate the typical residential garage door because they’re not built with the needed support. What can happen is the wind will bring about a positive push in your garage, and the wind outside of the structure causes a negative pull. When this occurs, your roof and garage will undergo a lot of pressure because of this tug-of-war instance. To avoid an excessive storm damage restoration, you can buy a kit that will help your garage door withstand hurricane conditions. This is the most reliable step, but if you don’t have the time to install a kit, then you can use your car to help brace your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – Water damage is one of the most common perils tied to hurricanes, and when your doors and windows aren’t safeguarded this will allow the wind and rain to move in your home. When a storm is imminent, make sure your shutters are sturdy and in a functional condition. The latches need to be secure and it might be necessary to put additional locks on them. If you don’t have storm shutters for your windows, then you can cover them up with some OSB. A common misconception with window preparation is that you can tape up the window; but this doesn’t secure it at all. Also, make sure your doors are durable and that the deadbolts are functioning properly. You can also install braces on your doors for added measure.
- Roof – Examining your roof is vital before a hurricane passes through your location, and it can help you avoid 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, check to see if there are unprotected gaps where any wiring is entering in your home and seal them. Small gaps might not seem like a problem, but sealing them off can stop water from entering your house. You might want to think about getting hurricane straps to make sure your roof is secure as well. Another thing to do is unclog your gutters so there’s suitable irrigation for the heavy rains.
- Your Property – Walking around your lawn is another necessary step you should take. Your shrubs and trees need consideration and might necessitate some pruning. Any loose or dead limbs can be hazardous in extreme winds and could cause some damage to your home. This pertains to items on your property such as patio furniture as well. Transfer any items that aren’t fastened to the ground or weighed down to a safe location before the wind can take them.
- Car – Your vehicle can easily be forgotten when you’re prepping your house for a hurricane. But it’s just as critical to get your vehicle ready as well, so ensure you have: a full tank of gas, working windshield wipers, good tires and your windows sealed properly. Also, be cognizant of where you park, especially if you park on the street. Check that your car isn’t under any trees or in a location that’s vulnerable to flooding.
Paul Davis – Your Storm Damage Restoration Experts
In spite of all the preventative measures you take in securing your house, there is only so much you can do against storm damages. If your property experiences damage produced by a hurricane, contact the experts at Paul Davis. The team at Paul Davis can restore your house back to normal with our storm damage repair and remediation services. We also work with various insurance companies and we can offer guidance and help you verify if your damage is covered. Call us today at 570-402-2300 to locate a franchise near your location.
