How to Shore Up Your Home Before a Hurricane

Check your gutters and downspouts to make sure that they are clear of debris

As a homeowner, it’s important to take precautions to protect your property from severe weather. One way to do this is to ensure that your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and seep into your home, leading to mold growth and wood rot. In addition, they can also be torn off by strong winds, leaving your roof vulnerable to damage. Downspouts that are not properly installed or maintained can also cause water to pool around your foundation, increasing the risk of flooding. By taking the time to clear out your gutters and downspouts, you can help reduce the chance of damage to your home during a hurricane.

Trim any trees or branches that could fall on your house during high winds

As a hurricane approaches, it is important to take steps to protect your home from the high winds and heavy rains. One way to do this is to trim any trees or branches that could fall on your house. This will help to reduce the risk of damage to your property. Another way to shore up your home is to secure any loose items that could be blown away by the wind. This includes things like patio furniture, grills, and lawn decorations. By taking these precautions, you can help to ensure that your home is ready to weather the storm.

Bring in any outdoor furniture or other objects that could be blown away by the wind

It’s that time of year again: Hurricane season is upon us. If you live in an area that is prone to hurricanes, it’s important to take steps to protect your home before the storm hits. One of the most important things you can do is to bring in any outdoor furniture or other objects that could be blown away by the wind. This includes umbrellas, lawn chairs, and even potted plants. In addition, it’s a good idea to secure any loose items around your yards, such as garbage cans or toys.

Secure any windows and doors with shutters or storm panels

As anyone who has lived through a hurricane can attest, the high winds and driving rain can cause serious damage to your home. In order to protect your property, it is important to take steps to shore up your home before a storm hits. One way to do this is to secure any windows and doors with shutters or storm panels. This will help to protect your home from flying debris and prevent water from entering your home and causing damage. 

Unplug all electronics and appliances from outlets and power strips

Hurricanes can cause extensive damage to homes and other structures. One way to minimize this damage is to unplug all electronics and appliances from outlets and power strips before the storm hits. This will help to prevent power surges that can damage delicate equipment.

Move valuable items to an upper floor if you live in a flood-prone area

As anyone who has lived through a hurricane can attest, the storm surge is often the most destructive part of the storm. A large wall of water can quickly inundate coastal areas, causing extensive damage to homes and businesses. If you live in a flood-prone area, it is important to take steps to protect your property before a hurricane hits. One of the most effective ways to do this is to move valuable items to an upper floor. This will help to prevent them from being damaged or lost if your home is flooded. 

By taking these precautions, you can help to minimize the damage caused by a hurricane.