Hurricane Protection – Preparing Your Property from Probable Damage
Natural disasters can occur without a moment's notice, but hurricanes can at least be observed prior to hitting your area. Preparation and planning are very fundamental things you can execute when a hurricane comes around. Since your home is one of your biggest investments, it's a smart idea to do what you can to avoid the perils that hurricanes can bring to your home and to prevent any storm damage repair. There are a lot of things to check up on when safeguarding your property for a hurricane. To secure your property from a hurricane, follow the steps below.How to Brace for a Hurricane
- Garage Door – If you have a garage, this should be one of the first things you need to take care of. High winds can get through the typical residential garage door because they're not installed with the extra support. What can happen is the wind will create a positive push in your garage, and the wind outside of it creates a negative pull. When this occurs, your roof and garage will undergo a lot of pressure because of this tug-of-war situation. To avoid a major storm damage repair, you can purchase braces that will help your garage door resist hurricane conditions. This is the most reliable method, 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 – The other vulnerable areas in your property are your entrances like your windows and doors. Busted windows will allow rain and wind to enter into your home, and this can cause water damage issues. When a storm is on the way, make sure you lock your windows. If you have storm shutters installed, ensure they are in good condition and locked, but if you don't have storm shutters, you can board up your windows to keep possible damage out of your residence. Additionally, keep in mind that placing masking tape on your windows doesn't protect them at all. Concerning your doors, utilize the deadbolts or any other locks to confirm they don't pop open during strong wind gusts.
- Roof – Make sure to inspect your roof for any out of place shingles and other vulnerable areas. Get some roof cement to secure any loose shingles, and you should consider getting hurricane straps to ensure your roof is fastened to your home. Additionally, it's a good idea to seal any areas where wires enter into your home to avoid any water damage from happening. While you're analyzing your roof, check to see if your gutters are clear of debris. Good irrigation is crucial for directing water away from your home during the heavy rains.
- Your Property – It's important to clear your property of any loose items like garden accessories, patio furniture and children's toys. If it can be lifted from a strong wind storm, then clear it out and put it in a secure location so it doesn't cause damage to your home and others' around you. Additionally, examine your trees for any dangling or dead branches and trim them if they need it.
- Car – Your vehicle can easily be forgotten when you're protecting your property for a storm. But it's a great idea to get your vehicle ready as well, so make sure you have: a full tank of gas, working windshield wipers, tires with good tread and your windows sealed. In addition, be cautious of where you park your vehicle, especially if you rely on street parking. Make sure your vehicle isn't beneath any trees or in a location that's prone to floods.