Prepare Your Home For A Storm
Preparing your home for storms is essential to ensure the safety of your family and minimize potential damage. Before the storm, secure all exterior elements, such as windows, doors, and roofs. Installing storm shutters or boarding up windows can protect against flying debris, while reinforcing doors and garage doors can prevent them from being blown open by strong winds.
It is best to make home repairs well ahead of an expected storm. Have your roof inspected for any signs of wear and tear, such as loose or missing shingles or tiles, cracks, or damaged flashing. Secure them to prevent leaks and further damage during heavy rain or high winds.
If you have siding, look for signs of damage from wind; shingles that are lifted, stressed or cracked and cracks and chips and splits in siding, stucco, paint or wood.
Check the seals around windows and doors. If you notice any gaps or cracks, apply weather stripping or caulking to keep out wind and rain. For added protection, consider installing impact-resistant windows or storm shutters. Garage doors are another weak point in many homes; reinforcing them with braces or upgrading to a wind-rated door can prevent them from being blown in by strong winds.
If your home is prone to flooding, and you have a sump pump make sure it is in good working condition and consider installing a battery backup in case of power outages. You might also want to elevate appliances, electrical systems, and HVAC units to reduce the risk of water damage. Clearing gutters and downspouts is essential to prevent water from pooling around your home’s foundation, which can lead to flooding. Flood water can make the air in your home unhealthy, because when things remain wet for more than two days, mold develops. Inhaling mold can cause adverse health effects, so contact a professional for remediation.
Finally, inspect and secure any outdoor structures, such as sheds, fences, and decks. Reinforcing these structures and ensuring they are properly anchored can prevent them from becoming hazards during a storm. By addressing these repairs in advance, you can help safeguard your home against the damaging effects of severe weather.