How to Secure Your House from a Hurricane – Prevent Storm Damage

Damages induced from hurricanes can be disastrous for your house. The extreme winds can shatter windows, tear apart roofs and knock over trees. Your house is also susceptible to water damage and flooding from downpours. Nevertheless, there are preventative measures you can take to defend your property from strong storms. Follow the guidelines below to make sure you, your family and your property is protected from a hurricane and to prevent extreme storm damage restoration.

How to Plan for a Hurricane

  • Garage Door – Indeed, your garage is actually one of the more vulnerable places when it comes to extreme storms like hurricanes. The logic behind it: the average garage door is not supported and strong winds can get into the garage. When this happens, you get a positive push inside the garage, and as the winds are churning above your structure, this causes a negative pull. A push-pull combination is created, and this can place a lot of stress on your roof and eventually it could rip it off your garage. To prevent this from happening, the best technique is to buy a kit that supports your garage door. Although, if time isn’t on your side to install a kit, then you can use your car to brace your garage door.
  • Windows and Doors – Broken windows don’t only allow the rain to get into your residence, but the wind that blows through can increase the pressure under your roof, which can lead to significant structural damage. Storm shutters are a great method to defend your property during a storm. When a hurricane is imminent, ensure the latches are functioning correctly and you may want to consider installing additional locks for added security. You can also board up your windows if you don’t have storm shutters, but it’s important to know that placing masking tape on your windows won’t do anything to protect your property from a hurricane. After your windows are secure, move to your doors next. Verify that they’re sturdy and that the deadbolts are in working order.
  • Roof – Your roof acts as your primary protector against Mother Nature, and that’s why it’s important to ensure it’s ready for hurricane season. Locate any loose shingles and fix them with roofing concrete. You’ll also want proper irrigation for the strong rains, so unclog your gutters so the water doesn’t accumulate on your roof. You can then locate any wires that are going into your property and seal off any threatening gaps to prevent water damage from happening. Lastly, judge whether it’s necessary to attach your roof with hurricane straps.
  • Your Property – The outside of your property can be a number one hazard when a hurricane hits your town. Any loose items could be lifted from the extreme wind and be thrown into your residence and your neighbor’s too. Walk around your property and move any garden accessories, children’s toys, patio furniture and BBQs to a place safe from the storm. One other thing you need to do is cut back any loose or dead limbs from your shrubs and trees.
  • Car – Aside from your property, it’s necessary to take precautions with your car. Don’t park your car under any trees or in an area that is prone to flooding. If you rely on street parking, you should really be watchful of where you park. In addition, prepare your car, like: ensuring your tank is full, your windshield wipers are in good condition, your tires aren’t worn out and that your windows are sealed correctly.

Call a Local Paul Davis Franchise Today

Paul Davis provides storm damage restoration and remediation services, so if your home has been harmed by a hurricane, call our expert team. After all, there is only so much you can do to protect your house from Mother Nature. We can fix and restore your property back to normal, and we work with different home insurers. We can help you evaluate what’s covered under your policy. To find a Paul Davis franchise near you, reach out to us at 610 328 5901.