How to Protect Your Home from a Hurricane – Prevent Storm Damage

Natural disasters can develop without a moment’s notice, but hurricanes can at least be detected prior to hitting your area. Hurricane season is a time for preparation. Since your home is one of your most valuable assets, it’s a good 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 lots of things to keep in mind when preparing your property for the big storm. To secure your property from a hurricane, follow the approaches listed below.

How to Plan for a Hurricane

  • Garage Door – To prevent any extreme storm damage restorations, your garage door should be one of the first 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 purchase a support kit. By supporting your garage door, you’ll block the winds that create a positive push in your garage. This is significant since the winds that develop outside will cause a negative pull over your garage. When this happens, you’ll get a push-pull scenario which puts a lot of stress on your garage and roof. Supporting your garage door with braces is an effective way to prevent major damage. But, if it’s too late to install braces, you can use your automobile to support your garage door.
  • Windows and Doors – The other susceptible areas in your property are your access points like your windows and doors. Damaged windows will allow rain and wind to enter into your house, and this can cause water damage problems. When a hurricane is imminent, make sure you lock and secure your windows. If you have storm shutters installed, make sure they are in good condition and locked, but if you don’t have storm shutters, you can board up your windows to keep probable destruction out of your residence. Additionally, keep in mind that using masking tape on your windows doesn’t do anything to protect them. Concerning your doors, utilize the deadbolts or any other locks to make sure they don’t pop open during heavy winds.
  • Roof – Your roof is a primary defense against the elements, and that’s why it’s important to make sure it’s ready for hurricane season. Locate any damaged shingles and repair them with roofing concrete. You’ll also want irrigation for the pouring rains, so unclog your gutters so the water doesn’t concentrate on your roof. You can then check out any wires that are entering into your house and seal off any susceptible gaps to block water damage from occurring. Finally, check whether it’s crucial to fasten your roof with hurricane straps.
  • Your Property – Your lawn can be a primary risk when a hurricane comes through. Any loose items could be lifted from the high wind and be launched into your residence and your neighbor’s as well. Make sure to move any patio furniture, BBQs, garden accessories and children’s toys to an area safe from the storm. Another thing you’ll want to do is cut back any loose or dead limbs from your shrubs and trees.
  • Car – Aside from your house, you should also take precautions with your automobile. Don’t park your car beneath any trees or in a spot that is susceptible to flooding. If you rely on street parking, you should really be careful of where you park. Furthermore, do some prep work as well, like: making sure your gas tank is full, your windshield wipers are working, your tires have good tread and that your windows are sealed correctly.

Paul Davis’ Storm Damage Cleanup & Repair Services

Even with all the necessary steps you take in safeguarding your property, there is only so much you can do. If your property experiences damage generated from a hurricane, call the professionals at Paul Davis. Our storm and hurricane damage repair and remediation services will get your property back to a healthy condition. We also work with a variety of home insurers and we can help you figure out if your damage is covered. Reach out to Paul Davis today at (614) 367-9611 to locate a franchise near your area.