The threat of hurricanes seems to be even more of major concern these days. In the event that your town is projected to take the brunt of potential tropical storm damage, it’s best to make sure that your home is as well prepared as possible to remain standing. You should still plan on evacuating elsewhere with your loved ones and pets of course, but you just might be able to come back home to an intact structure if you take the necessary precautions. Make sure to check for the following:
1 – Windows Safety
First of all, make sure that all of your windows have shutters installed. You can do this yourself of course, but the best possible course of action is to have high-grade units installed by professionals. If you can’t afford that particular investment, however, just make sure you do your research so you can guarantee any self-installed shutters are as structurally sound as possible.
Taping windows before a storm is a myth that can actually do more harm than good. When taped, windows that are are can break into larger more dangerous shards of glass.
Opening your windows a bit to stabilize pressure is also a myth that can add to the danger of a storm. Your home can breathe just fine with the windows closed. Allowing large gusts of wind into the home will not help the situation and can cause further damage to the interior.
2 – The Roof
You should also take great care in securing your roof. Roofs are among the most highly damaged aspects of any home during a hurricane. You’ll need to inspect the tiles and shingles so that you can nail down any that might be loose. You should also brace your gable ends and install hurricane straps if necessary. Finally, consider having a water barrier installed under the roof itself. A professional contractor can really work wonders in getting all of this done properly.
3 – Doors
Of course, you’ll also need to make sure that your doors are adequately protected. If left vulnerable, any degree of a hurricane or flying debris impact could damage or cave your doors in. It’s hard to go wrong with the installation of shutters or impact windows.
4 – Trees And Shrubbery
You should also take a look around your yard to see if there are any tree limbs or shrubbery near your home that could become projectiles. Be sure to trim or remove anything that looks as if it could end up hitting your windows. reword to: hitting Ideally, you’ll need to do this quite a bit ahead of the storm so that you can adequately do away with the debris.
5 – Other Precautions
Finally, you’ll want to make sure that any new materials you use for the likes of coverings or shutters are in keeping with state regulations. This typically won’t be a problem if you buy everything locally or work with a contractor.
With all of that in mind, you should have the basics for preparing your home for a hurricane down pat. If you’re forced to stay in the area, be sure to gas up your vehicle beforehand and buy ample supplies such as bottled water and canned foods just in case. You’ll want to make a safe area of your home
(i.e. the bathtub or a storm shelter) is readily accessible as well.