A Homeowners Guide to Defending a House from a Hurricane

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 the most important things you can execute when a hurricane comes around. Because your house is one of your biggest investments, it’s a good idea to do what you can to prevent the perils that hurricanes can bring to your home and to prevent any storm damage repair. There are many things to keep in mind when prepping your residence for the ensuing storm. To safeguard your residence from a hurricane, follow the methods listed below.

Hurricane Preparation Checklist – Best Approaches to Prevent Storm Damage

  • Garage Door – Indeed, your garage is actually one of the more vulnerable spots when it comes to heavy storms such as hurricanes. The reason why: most garage doors are not reinforced and strong winds can get into the garage. When this happens, you get a positive push inside the garage, and as the winds are swirling above your structure, this causes a negative pull. A push-pull combination develops, and this can put a lot of stress on your roof and eventually rip it off. To avoid this from happening, the best technique is to purchase a kit that supports your garage door. But if it’s too late to install a kit, then you can utilize your automobile to support your garage door.
  • Windows and Doors – Windows and doors are another access-point for a hurricane to cause chaos. Busted windows will allow rain and wind to move through your home, and this can lead to water damage problems. When a hurricane is on the way, make sure you lock your windows. If you have storm shutters installed, make sure they are functioning and locked, but if you don’t have storm shutters, you can board up your windows to keep probable destruction out of your home. Additionally, keep in mind that sticking masking tape on your windows won’t do anything to secure them. As for your doors, lock the deadbolts or any other locking mechanisms to verify they don’t pop open during strong winds.
  • Roof – Make sure to go over your roof for any loose shingles and other vulnerable spots. You can use roof cement to fix any loose shingles, and you should consider hurricane straps to make sure your roof is fastened to your home. Additionally, it’s a good idea to seal any areas where wires enter into your house to prevent any water damage from occurring. During your roof examination, check to see if your gutters are clear of debris. Proper irrigation is vital for water run-off during the heavy rains.
  • Your Property – It’s necessary to clear your lawn of any loose items such as children’s toys, garden accessories and patio furniture. If the item can be lifted from a strong wind storm, then relocate it to a safe location so it doesn’t cause damage to your home and others’ around you. Furthermore, check your trees for any dead or loose branches and trim them if necessary.
  • Car – Along with your home, you should also take preventative measures with your automobile. 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 watchful of where you park. Additionally, prepare your vehicle, such as: making sure your gas tank is full, your windshield wipers are in good condition, your tires aren’t worn out and that your windows are sealed correctly.

Contact a Local Paul Davis Franchise Today

Paul Davis offers storm damage repair and remediation services, so if your residence has been injured by a hurricane, contact our expert team. Unfortunately, there is only so much you can do to combat the elements. We can restore your home back to its original status, and we work with a range of home insurers. We can help you calculate what’s covered with your policy. For a Paul Davis franchise near you, contact us at (410) 730-7260.