Hurricane Protection – Bracing Your Home from Probable Disaster

Damage caused from hurricanes can be disastrous for your residence. The huge gusts of winds can break windows, separate roofs and knock over trees. Your residence is also exposed to water damage and flooding from downpours. Still, there are approaches you can take to secure your property from strong weather conditions. Follow the methods listed below to assure you, your family and your home is secure from a hurricane and to prevent the need for storm damage repairs.

Essential Approaches in Hurricane Preparation

  • Garage Door – To prevent any extreme storm damage repairs, your garage door should be one of the primary things to take care. Most of the garage doors on the market aren’t installed to defend against hurricane conditions, so it’s important to buy a brace kit. By supporting your garage door, you’ll block the winds that create a positive push in your garage. This is important because the winds that develop outside will create a negative pull above your garage. When this happens, you’ll get a tug-of-war scenario which puts a lot of pressure on your garage and roof. Supporting your garage door with braces is an efficient way to prevent excessive damage. However, if it’s too late to install the garage door kit, you can use your vehicle to support your garage door.
  • Windows and Doors – A common incidence that’s correlated with hurricanes is water damage, and when your windows and doors aren’t secure this will allow the storm to get into your home. Before the storm hits, make sure your shutters are sturdy and in a functional condition. The latches need to be strong and it might be necessary to install locks on them. You can also protect your windows with some OSB if you don’t have storm shutters. One wrong impression that’s passed around for window preparation is that you can tape up the window; but this won’t help at all. Additionally, verify that your doors are sturdy and that the deadbolts are working properly. You can also brace your doors for added measure.
  • Roof – A roof checkup is crucial, and you should look out for any damaged shingles and other susceptible areas. You can use roof cement to mend any loose shingles, and you should consider getting hurricane straps to ensure your roof is fastened to your house. Additionally, you’ll want to seal any spots where wires enter into your home to prevent any water damage from happening. While you’re examining your roof, this is a good time to see if your gutters are clogged. Good irrigation is crucial for water run-off during the hurricane.
  • Your Property – The exterior of your property can be a number one risk when a hurricane hits your town. Items that aren’t weighed down or fastened to the ground could be lifted from the high wind and be launched into your house and your neighbor’s too. Walk around your yard and move any children’s toys, patio furniture, BBQs and garden accessories to a place safe from the storm. One other thing you’ll want to do is remove any loose or dead branches from your trees and shrubs.
  • Car – Along with your home, it’s necessary to take preventative measures with your vehicle. Don’t park your vehicle beneath any trees or in a spot that floods easily. If you rely on street parking, you should really be cautious of where you park. In addition, do some prep work too, like: ensuring your gas tank is full, your windshield wipers are working, your tires have good tread and that your windows are sealed properly.

Paul Davis – Your Storm Damage Repair Experts

Despite all the necessary steps you take in securing your home, there is only so much you can do against storm damages. If your home experiences damage produced by a hurricane, call the experts at Paul Davis. Our storm damage restoration and remediation services will get your home back to normal again. We also work with a variety of home insurers and we can help you verify if your damage is covered. Call us today at (603) 727-4440 to locate a franchise near you.