With storm season just around the corner, it’s essential to take proactive steps to protect your home from potential damage. Storms can bring high winds, heavy rain, and even hail, posing a threat to your property and safety. But fear not – with a little preparation and foresight, you can minimize the impact of storms and keep your home safe and secure.
Let’s explore some practical tips and strategies for preparing your home for storm season and reducing the risk of damage.
Inspect Your Roof
First things first, take the time to inspect your roof for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Loose or missing shingles, cracked flashing, and damaged seals can all leave your home vulnerable to leaks and water damage during a storm. Contact a professional roofer to conduct a thorough inspection.
If you notice any issues, be sure to address them promptly by repairing or replacing damaged roofing materials. Additionally, consider reinforcing your roof with hurricane straps or clips to improve its resistance to high winds.
Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters and downspouts can prevent rainwater from properly draining away from your home, increasing the risk of water damage during a storm. Before storm season arrives, take the time to clean out your gutters and downspouts to remove leaves, debris, and other obstructions.
Consider installing gutter guards to help prevent future clogs and ensure that rainwater can flow freely away from your home’s foundation.
Secure Outdoor Furniture and Equipment
High winds can turn outdoor furniture, lawn ornaments, and other loose items into dangerous projectiles during a storm. To minimize the risk of damage to your property and neighbouring homes, secure outdoor furniture and equipment or bring them indoors before a storm hits.
Consider anchoring heavy items like patio umbrellas and grills to the ground or storing them in a garage or shed until the storm passes.
Trim Trees and Shrubs
Overhanging branches and overgrown vegetation can pose a threat to your home during a storm, especially if they’re near your roof or windows. Take the time to trim trees and shrubs around your property, removing any dead or weak branches that could break off and cause damage during high winds.
If necessary, consider hiring a professional arborist to assess and trim large or difficult-to-reach trees.
Reinforce Doors and Windows
Your home’s doors and windows are vulnerable points of entry for wind, rain, and debris during a storm. To minimize the risk of damage, consider reinforcing them with storm shutters, impact-resistant glass, or plywood covers.
Additionally, check the weather-stripping and seals around doors and windows for any signs of wear and tear, and replace them if necessary to keep out moisture and drafts.
Create an Emergency Kit
Lastly, prepare an emergency kit stocked with essential supplies to help you weather the storm safely and comfortably. Include items such as non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, and important documents in your kit.
Look for storm damage roof repair services in case certain parts of your home are damaged from the storm. Keep your emergency kit in a designated location that’s easily accessible in case you need to evacuate or shelter in place during a storm.