Getting Your House Ready for a Hurricane – Storm Damage Prevention

Flooding, structural loss and water damage are the usual cases for a post-hurricane environment. Yet, there are a few important precautions you can execute in order to avoid these incidents and any excessive storm damage repairs. It’s important to do whatever you can to secure your property from a hurricane and to keep your loved ones and your neighbors safe. Listed below are methods to keep in mind while securing your home against Mother Nature.

Hurricane Planning Checklist

  • Garage Door – If your home has a garage, this might be one of the first things you need to take care of. Strong winds can permeate the standard residential garage door because they’re not built with the extra support. What can take place is the wind will bring about a positive push inside your garage, and the wind outside of it creates a negative pull. When this happens, your roof and garage will endure a lot of pressure because of this push-pull instance. To prevent a major storm damage restoration, you can buy a kit that will help your garage door combat hurricane conditions. This is the most effective method, but if time isn’t on your side, then you can use your automobile to help brace your garage door.
  • Windows and Doors – Damaged windows don’t only allow the rain to get into your residence, but the wind that comes through can increase the pressure under your roof, which can lead to significant damage to your structure. Storm shutters are an effective approach to defend your home during a storm. When a storm is at hand, ensure the latches are functioning properly and you may want to consider adding additional locks for added security. You can also cover your windows with OSB if you don’t have shutters, but it’s critical to note that placing masking tape on your windows won’t do anything to protect your property from a hurricane. After your windows are secure, check your doors next. Make sure they’re stable and that the deadbolts are in working order.
  • Roof – Make sure to scan your roof for any loose 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 areas where wires come into your house to prevent any water damage from happening. During your roof analysis, check to see if your gutters are clogged. Suitable irrigation is crucial for directing water away from your property during the heavy rains.
  • Your Property – Your lawn can be a primary 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 hurled into your residence and your neighbor’s too. Make sure to move any garden accessories, children’s toys, patio furniture and BBQs to a place out of harm’s way. One other thing you’ll want to do is cut back any loose or dead branches from your shrubs and trees.
  • Car – Your vehicle can easily be forgotten when you’re protecting your residence for a storm. But it’s just as crucial to get your vehicle ready too, so ensure you have: a full tank of gas, good windshield wipers, good tires and your windows sealed properly. Also, be cognizant of where you park, especially if you rely on street parking. Make sure your vehicle isn’t under any trees or in an area that’s susceptible to floods.

Call Paul Davis for Storm Damage Restoration

Despite all the necessary steps you take in defending your home, there is only so much you can do against storm damages. If your home experiences damage produced by a hurricane, reach out to the experts at Paul Davis. The team at Paul Davis can restore your property back to where it was with our storm damage restoration and remediation services. We also work with various insurance agencies and we can help you figure out if your damage is covered. Get in touch with us today at (512) 366-5600 to find a franchise near your location.