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

Water damage, flooding and structural destruction are the typical scenarios for a post-hurricane environment. However, there are a few fundamental precautions you can execute in order to prevent these incidents and any excessive storm damage restorations. It’s important to do anything you can to secure your house from a hurricane and to keep your loved ones and your neighbors safe. Below is a list of things to keep in mind while protecting your home against Mother Nature.

How to Prepare for a Hurricane

  • Garage Door – Believe it or not, your garage is really one of the more vulnerable places when it comes to extreme storms such as hurricanes. The reason why: the average garage door is not supported and strong winds can get into the area. When this happens, a positive push generates in the garage, and as the winds are churning above it, this creates a negative pull. With the push-pull combo, this can put a lot of stress on your roof and eventually rip it off. To avoid this from happening, the best method 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 vehicle to brace your garage door.
  • Windows and Doors – Water damage is one of the more common impairments tied to hurricanes, and when your windows and doors aren’t safeguarded this will allow the storm to get into your home. Before the storm hits, check that your shutters are sturdy and in a functional condition. The latches need to be strong and it might be necessary to put additional locks on them. If you don’t have storm shutters for your windows, then you can cover them up with some OSB. A common fallacy with window prep is that you can use masking tape on the window; however, this doesn’t secure it at all. Also, verify that your doors are in strong condition and that the deadbolts are functioning properly. You can also install braces on your doors for extra support.
  • Roof – A roof inspection is important, and you should locate for any loose shingles and other vulnerable areas. Get some roof cement to mend any loose shingles, and you should consider hurricane straps to make sure your roof is secure to your house. Also, it’s a good idea to seal any areas where wires enter into your home to avoid any water damage from occurring. While you’re checking out your roof, check to see if your gutters are cleaned out. You want to confirm you have proper irrigation for the heavy rains that occur during a hurricane.
  • Your Property – It’s necessary to clear your yard of any loose items such as patio furniture, children’s toys and other miscellaneous garden items. If the item can be picked up from a heavy gust of wind, then relocate it to a secure area so it doesn’t cause damage to your property and others’ around you. Furthermore, check your trees for any dangling or dead limbs and trim them if they need it.
  • Car – Your car can easily be forgotten when you’re protecting your residence for a storm. But it’s a good idea to get your car ready too, so ensure you have: a full tank of gas, good windshield wipers, good tires and your windows sealed. Additionally, be cognizant of where you park your car, especially if you park on the street. Check that your vehicle isn’t beneath any trees or in a location that’s susceptible to flooding.

Who We Are

Damages from hurricanes can be destructive, and there is only so much you can do to safeguard your home. If your home needs storm damage repair services, contact Paul Davis. Our team of professionals can fix and restore your house quickly. You can trust the expert storm damage repair team at Paul Davis. Give us a call today at (712) 525-4248 and our local franchise will be there to help.