A Homeowner's Approach to Securing Their Home from High Winds
Preparation and planning are useful things you can do when you know harsh winds are on their way. For the reason that your home is one of your major assets, it's a smart idea to do what you can to avoid the hazards that strong winds can inflict on your house and to avoid any storm damage repairs. There are some things to bear in mind when preparing your home from harsh wind conditions, so to safeguard your residence from strong winds, here are some useful practices.What to Keep in Mind If Harsh Winds Are Approaching
- Garage Door – Start with your garage if your property has one because this is one of the more vulnerable locations for storm damage. Typically, garages don't have the support to fight heavy winds. What can materialize is the wind will create a pushing motion in your garage, and the wind outside of the structure generates a pulling motion. If this occurs, your roof and garage will undergo an increased amount of physical force because of this push-pull scenario. To avoid necessary storm damage repair services, you can purchase a brace kit that will allow the door to your garage to tolerate extreme wind conditions. This is an excellent step; however, if you don't have the time to install a kit, then you can use your car to help brace your garage door.
- Windows and Doors – If strong wind conditions are on their way, check that your shutters are strong and in good condition. The latches have to be sturdy and you should put locks on them. When you don't have shutters for your windows, then you can cover them up. A common mistake with window prep is that you can tape them to protect them; nevertheless, this won't protect them at all. Further, verify that your doors are stable and that the deadbolts are working correctly. You can also use braces on your doors for added measure.
- Roof – Doing an inspection for your roof prior to the strong winds coming to your location can save you from excessive property damage. The main thing you'll want to keep an eye out for is flawed shingles and put roofing cement to fix them. Afterward, search for any type of cracks where any wiring is going into your residence and seal them. Since whirlwinds are created when winds hit your roof, it will create a suction, and anywhere high winds can get under your roof will create high air pressure that thrust up towards your roof. So getting a well-secured roof is one of the better ways to combat extreme winds from damaging your roof.
- Your Property – It's necessary to clear your lawn of any loose items like children's toys, landscaping accessories and patio furniture. If it can be lifted from a strong wind gust, then remove it and put it in a safe location so it doesn't cause damage to your home and your neighbors around you. Likewise, examine your bushes and trees for any dangling branches and trim them if necessary.