It’s important for a home in a high-risk hurricane area to withstand the hurricane’s winds and water. The best weather gurus can’t pinpoint where the next hurricane will form or where the next hurricane will go. Don’t wait to find out for yourself, or it will be too late. Secure and anchor the property now so it doesn’t blow away later.
Secure Home Insurance Policy
To qualify for home insurance coverage after a hurricane, traditional home insurance coverage isn’t sufficient. Include a flood insurance rider to the policy. It’s protection against floods and hurricanes. If a hurricane insurance rider is available, add that too. Obtain that immediately as there’s a 30-day wait period before activation. By default, neither flood insurance nor hurricane insurance is in the policy. Conversely, people in the renting space should review their rental insurance policy for flood insurance or hurricane insurance. Include one of those riders if the policy doesn’t have it.
Secure Doors and Windows
It’s not enough to lock doors and windows. Hurricane rain spins sideways, making it easy for water to seep in through the cracks. Doors and windows need super-tight seals. Besides closing and locking windows, seal edges with caulk and cover windows with plastic. On the exterior, board up windows and doors with wood and/or storm shutters. Don’t forget to strengthen garage doors with wood beams and door braces.
Secure Possible Lawn Hazards
Lawn maintenance is paramount in home preparation. A forceful wind and a powerful ocean can move a tree toward a home, tearing a door, window, garage, and roof in seconds. Avoid this catastrophe by removing trees and branches posing a threat to the home. Additionally, dispose of limbs and trash around the yard. Remove patio equipment, cooking equipment, and garden equipment from outdoors and store them in the garage. Harmless items in everyday use can turn into a dangerous weapon in a hurricane.
Secure the Roof Tightly
The roof is the first item a hurricane will target. Therefore, secure the roof to attic walls with metal roof straps so the roof anchors to the house. Meanwhile, the exterior needs security. Replace cracked or missing roof shingles. Repair holes and cracks with shingles or caulk. Alternatively, replace the entire roof with DIY metal roofing. Hurricanes test a roof’s strength, and any holes or cracks are a gateway to damage.
Hurricane season is approaching fast, so be proactive now. Waiting until June 1 to safeguard the home will be too late. The strategies listed above will safeguard your home against impending hurricanes.