Don’t rethink your coastal living dreams just yet. While we can’t control Mother Nature, we can certainly prepare for her tempestuous moods. So, here’s six ways to hurricane-proof your home.
1. Secure Your Windows
Windows are vulnerable points during a hurricane. Investing in storm shutters is a smart move. Whether you go for accordion, roll-down, or panel shutters, make sure they meet local building codes and are easy to deploy when a storm is brewing.
If storm shutters aren’t your style, consider impact-resistant glass. This special glass is designed to withstand flying debris, so you can still enjoy the view without worrying about turning your living room into a wind tunnel.
Pro Tip: If you decide to purchase plywood to board up, make sure to measure your windows before buying. A snug fit is crucial. You don’t want any windows winking at the storm.
2. Secure Your Doors
Your doors need to withstand not just the wind but also debris hurtling through the air like a toddler’s toy tantrum. Install heavy-duty bolts at the top and bottom of doors to keep them securely fastened. Consider replacing standard entry doors with hurricane-rated doors designed to withstand severe pressure and impact
For sliding doors, consider using a security bar or brace. And don’t forget your garage doors! Upgrade to a wind-rated garage door or reinforce your existing one with a retrofit kit. These enhancements prevent the door from buckling under pressure, which can lead to major structural damage. Plus, you don’t want your garage door taking a spontaneous vacation in the middle of a storm.
Pro Tip: Check for any gaps around your doors. Use weatherstripping to seal them up tight. Drafty doors aren’t just bad for your heating bill; they’re like rolling out a welcome mat for high winds.
3. Keep a Lid on It: Reinforce Your Roof
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against a hurricane. Check for loose shingles, and if you have a flat roof, ensure the seals are intact. For extra protection, consider installing hurricane straps or clips. These little heroes keep your roof connected to the walls, making it harder for the wind to turn it into a giant frisbee. Also, consider investing in impact-resistant shingles; they’re like helmets for your house.
4. Clean Your Yard
Your beautifully landscaped yard can quickly become a war zone of flying debris. Secure or store outdoor furniture, grills, and garden ornaments when a hurricane is on the horizon. Trim your trees and bushes regularly to remove weak branches that could become flying projectiles. If you have gravel or small stones in your landscaping, think about replacing them with mulch. Mulch may not sound exciting, but it’s less likely to launch through your windows.
5. Keep the Lights On: Invest in a Backup Power Source
Power outages are a common aftermath of hurricanes. Investing in a generator can keep your essentials running until the grid is back online. Whether you opt for a portable generator or a whole-house standby system, make sure it’s installed and maintained by professionals.
And it’s no secret that flooding can be a serious issue during hurricanes. The last thing you want is water mingling with your electrical systems. Elevate your electrical panels, outlets, and appliances. If your area is prone to heavy flooding, consider investing in a sump pump.
Pro Tip: Label your circuit breakers clearly. In an emergency, you don’t want to play eeny, meeny, miny, moe to shut off your power.
6. Bonus Tip: Review Your Insurance Policy
Even with all these precautions, sometimes the unthinkable happens. Make sure your home insurance policy is up to date and provides adequate coverage for hurricane-related damage. (Don’t wait until the storm is looming to find out you’re underinsured.) Review your policy frequently – a comprehensive review with your insurance provider can ensure there are no surprises when you file a claim.
A little preparation goes a long way, and while you can’t control the weather, you can control how ready you are for it. So, grab your tools, review your insurance, and give your home a storm-ready makeover so that your hurricane season is as uneventful as a rainy Sunday.