Flooding, ruined structures and water damage are the usual incidents after a hurricane hits. However, there are some fundamental precautions you can execute in order to prevent these scenarios and any major storm damage restorations. It’s crucial to do whatever you can to defend your property from a hurricane and to keep your loved ones and your neighbors secure. Listed below are practices to keep in mind while protecting your residence against Mother Nature.
Hurricane Planning Checklist – Best Steps to Prevent Storm Damage
- Garage Door – To prevent any major storm damage restorations, your garage door should be one of the first things to check for. A lot of the garage doors on the market aren’t installed to defend against hurricane conditions, so it’s important to purchase a brace kit. By supporting your garage door, you’ll block the winds that cause a positive push in your space. This is crucial because the winds that develop outside will generate a negative pull over your garage. When this happens, you’ll get a push-pull scenario which puts a lot of stress on your garage and roof. Supporting your garage door with braces is an efficient approach to prevent major damage. But, if it’s too late to install the garage door kit, you can use your vehicle to support your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – Water damage is one of the most common perils tied to hurricanes, and when your doors and windows aren’t protected this will allow the storm to move in your house. When a storm is approaching, check that your shutters are durable and in a functional condition. The latches need to be strong and you’ll also want to install locks on them. Boarding up your windows is also an efficient method if you don’t have storm shutters. A typical misconception with window prep is that you can tape up the window; but this doesn’t help at all. Also, confirm that your doors are in good condition and that the deadbolts are functioning correctly. You can also use braces on your doors for extra security.
- Roof – Administering a quick checkup on your roof prior to a hurricane can save you from excessive property damage. A great starting point is to check for loose shingles and use some roofing cement to repair them. Next, look for any unprotected gaps where any wiring is coming into your house and seal them. This can stop water from coming into your residence. You might want to consider obtaining hurricane straps to make sure your roof is fastened too. Also, you’ll want to unclog your gutters so there’s suitable irrigation for the heavy rains.
- Your Property – Walking around your yard is another essential step you should take. Your shrubs and trees need consideration and might necessitate some trimming. Any dead or loose limbs can be threatening in windy conditions and could cause a lot of damage to your property. This goes for items on your lawn such as patio furniture as well. Move any items that aren’t fastened to the ground or weighed down to a secure location before the wind can take them.
- Car – When you’re caught up in protecting your home from a hurricane, it’s understandable that you forget about your automobile. Ensure that you have a full tank of gas, that your tires have good tread, the windows are up and that your windshield wipers are good. If you have to park on the street, you’ll want to verify that you’re not parked under trees or in a location that is prone to floods.
Who We Are
Even with all the precautions you take in defending your residence, there is only so much you can do. If your home succumbs to damage caused by a hurricane, contact the professionals at Paul Davis. The team at Paul Davis can bring back your property to its original status with our storm damage restoration and remediation services. We also work with a variety of insurance agencies and we can offer guidance and help you determine if your damage is covered. Reach out to Paul Davis today at 800-408-3290 to locate a franchise near your area.
