Throughout the year, Americans are faced with extreme weather such as tornadoes, blizzards, hurricanes, wind storms, and more. Depending on where you live, different types of storms can hit hard. However, with weather patterns shifting, more and more regions and the people living there are affected by these intense storms. If a storm is coming your way, your best defense against extreme weather is to storm-proof your house.
Learn how you can storm-proof your home below.
How to Storm-Proof Your House
Strong winds accompany many different types of storms. Whether you’re in Tornado Ally, in a hurricane zone, or live in a wind-prone area, you’ll want to prepare for the storm. Here are three easy ways you can storm-proof your house:
Ready Your Roof
Strong winds, heavy rainfall, and other weather has a way of finding weak parts in your roof. Well before a predicted storm, inspect your roof for any signs of damage. If it is safe, use a ladder to get a closer look. Check for shingles with tears or cracks, and look for areas with missing shingles.
For loose shingles, lift its bottom edge and apply adhesive caulk to the underside, then press down firmly, applying plenty of pressure for a couple of minutes so it can set. For shingles that are cracked or torn, use the caulk directly on the seam to seal it. If you prefer, hire a professional to handle these repairs.
Readying your roof and repairing and damage before a storm strikes will help prevent leaks, which can often cause water damage to your home.
Prepare Your Windows
Glass windows are very susceptible to damage during a storm. Your best defense against broken windows is to cover them with plywood.
First, measure your windows to ensure a good fit, next, using at least 1/2 inch plywood, carefully cut the wood to size. Either using tension clips or, if you don’t mind holes in your siding or brick, use a nail gun to attach the plywood into place.
Prevent Potential Damage
When a storm is headed your way, it’s important to take some time to batten down the hatches. Walk around your yard and identify any loose ends or projects you need to accomplish before the storm.
- When was the last time you cleaned out your gutters? Big storms often come with rain, and your gutter system needs to be working efficiently.
- Are there overhanging branches that could potentially cause damage if they were to break? Whether you hire a professional or DIY, removing dead branches, heavy fruits (like coconuts), or any tree limbs that could be problematic should be removed.
- Do you have yard decorations or furnishings that need to be moved inside? Don’t forget your bird feeders, trampoline, pink plastic flamingos, and outdoor furniture.
Doing this prevents potential damage, and it also helps keep track of all of your belongings, such as your seat cushions will stay in your garage instead of your neighbor’s backyard.
Contact Rapid Response Restoration
Even thoroughly storm-proofing your home isn’t a 100% insurance policy against some intense storms. When that occurs, you’ll need Rapid Response Restoration on your side. We are your local disaster remediation experts and can help you restore your home after mold, fire, and smoke, or water and flood disasters. Our team is available 24/7, 365 days a year, to help you when you need it most. If your home has suffered serious damage due to a disaster, contact the specialists at Rapid Response Restoration.
