As Summer begins to come to an end, we still face the threat of Hurricane Season and the storm it bring with it. Homeowners who live in the coastal cities and states face the most danger of being swept up by thunderstorms and flooding, which is why we have complied a list of a few measures to take in order to protect your home from becoming a victim of nature. Although most Floridians are no strangers to hurricanes and similar threats, it is always best to be better prepared than sorry.
The roof can be one of your property’s weakest points so as a result, roof damages are known to be a majority of reasons for hurricane insurance claims. Without a secure roof, water is prone to seeping in through the gaps of the roof decking which could, in turn, ruin the insulation and cause the ceiling to collapse inwards. In order to prevent this you should check your roof for loose tiles or pieces, check for rusting, and speak to a professional about installing preventative equipment on the roof to protect it.
One of the most important steps is to protect windows and doors with hurricane-impact coverings. Shutters should preferably be installed on all windows, including the smaller ones. If winds reach a high enough pressure even the smaller openings will cause a lot of damage. If shutters are not available, plywood is often used, however, it must be sized and placed correctly for it to hold up. There may be regulations about what kind of protective coverings to us for apartments or condos with a homeowner’s association so always be aware of what is allowed before committing.
All doors should be safeguarded with sandbags or other reinforcements, especially if you live in a flood zone. If you have a backyard or are in close proximity to many trees, it is advised to trim them as best as you can to prevent heavy debris from building gup further and causing more damage. Pools should not be filled to the edge and pumps should be covered for protection. It is wise to have a generator handy in the case the power goes out, as well. Most importantly, be aware of the closest emergency facilities and shelters nearby and make certain that your family has a plan in case of separation.
Stay Safe!