A hurricane or tropical storm is in the forecast. You’ve either made plans to evacuate or identified an interior room or other space where you’ll be safe. What about your house? High winds of 39 mph or stronger can damage your home. Now is the time to inspect your roof, doors, windows, and garage door. These are your home’s weak points and the places most likely to expose your whole house to damaging winds. Take the following steps to protect your home from wind damage:
1. Protect Your Home From Wind Damage by Securing the Roof
Loose shingles should be secured before severe weather to protect your home from wind damage. This is something you don’t want to do during a storm. Make plans now to have your roof inspected for loose shingles. Check to see that roofers have installed at least six nails or staples into each shingle. A waterproof underlayment beneath shingles can provide extra protection. If you have a metal roof make sure the contractor secured sections with screws or bolts. High winds can tear away entire panels.
2. Protect Windows and Exterior Doors
High wind can send debris and other projectiles flying. A broken window or unhinged door will let in strong winds making it more likely a building will suffer structural damage. Items indoors become susceptible to water damage. The best way to protect windows and doors is by installing permanent storm shutters. They cost around $50 dollars per square foot. They can be closed as quickly as needed. An alternative to consider is replacing doors and windows with impact resistant ones. Another option is plywood covers or screen systems.
3. Reinforce the Garage Door
Protect your home from high winds by repairing or replacing weakened or inferior garage doors. A dislodged garage door during a storm makes what’s inside vulnerable to damage. It can also threaten the home’s structure. A wind mitigation inspector can inspect your garage door and tell you what needs to be done before a storm arrives.
4. Check Trees and Limbs
Check now for potential problems with trees and wind damage. Take down branches more than six inches in diameter that are hanging over your house. Check for trees that may be close enough to do damage if they fall. A certified arborist can inspect trees and evaluate steps you should take.
5. Secure Potential Projectiles
Protect your home from wind damage by making a list now of things that may become projectiles. This includes patio furniture, umbrella, grills, and any outdoor equipment that may go flying. Either store them somewhere inside or bolt them securely to decks and patios. Secure storage sheds and other outbuildings with ground anchors.
Gable Home Inspections serves Southwest Florida with wind mitigation inspections and other home inspection services. Contact us to schedule yours today!