How to Protect Your Home From Severe Storms

Summer is the season for fun in the sun, but it can also produce some pretty intense storms, not to mention hurricane season. Keeping your home protected from unexpected weather changes is a necessity to ensure the protection of your family and your belongings.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Plan ahead! Storms can range from being very mild to incredibly severe, but they can all be unpredictable. Because of this, it is always a good idea to make sure you are properly prepared before a storm strikes.

2. Keep your roof maintained on a regular basis. Your roof faces the brunt of all kinds of weather conditions and, as a result, suffers wear and tear rather quickly. Keep your roof clean and free of debris regularly and check for loose shingles or leaks on a regular basis.

3. Check the exterior and interior of your home for leaks and repair them. If you find leaks during a storm, it can not only cause damage to the foundation of your home, but it can also cause health problems later on from mold and mildew build-up.

4. If you have any trees in your yard, make sure that they are properly maintained. Trees with dead or cluttered limbs can be hazardous to your home regardless, but can be even worse during a storm. Ideally, you want to ensure that any tree limbs that are too close to power lines or windows are removed.

5. Consider investing in storm shutters for your windows. The can provide good protection from flying debris during a severe storm. They don’t have to be unsightly either and can be a nice decorative touch to your home.

6. If you have a garage, look into door braces that can help protect your garage door and any items stored there. Garage doors are considered a weak point to your home, particularly during hurricanes. If you live in an area that is hurricane or tornado prone, it might be a good idea to invest in a brace that can provide further protection for your garage door.

7. Make sure there is proper drainage around your home to help reduce the possibility of flooding. This includes ensuring any ditches around your home are clear of debris so that they can properly drain flood waters. In addition, make sure that any drainage systems (such as roof gutters) are in good condition and free of clutter.

8. Don’t leave light-weight objects lying around your yard. In case of a severe storm with high winds, light objects can easily be tossed around, resulting in damage to your home or windows. Make sure that your yard is clear of items at all times.

9. If you live in an area that sees lightning frequently, consider having a lightning protection system installed. These types of systems are designed to protect buildings and/or homes from lightning strikes by transferring the high voltage current to ground.

10. Sometimes, despite any steps you may take, your home may suffer storm or flood damage. Because of this, it is a good idea to look into getting insurance coverage in case something like this occurs. Check with your insurance company to find out what, if any, storm or flood insurance they have available.

Tips & Warnings

• Your home is important, but your family comes first. Even if you have protected your home from harsh weather, always make sure that you have first-aid supplies, an evacuation plan should you need to leave your home, and other supplies (such as bottled water and can goods) available.