Your home is your first line of defense during severe weather. Any disruption to the space where you live can interfere with normal life patterns. Whether it’s hurricanes and torrential rain, or snowstorms backed by high winds during the wintertime; each brings conditions that present unique challenges. Here in the midwest, some of these conditions will be in full swing before you know it. Getting your home ready for this season can save more than just property. It could mean the safety and security of your family. Here are some smart tips to safeguard your home from severe weather.
1) Secure your Roof and Windows:
Ensuring your roof and windows are secure is one of the most essential parts of preparedness for severe weather. Areas damaged by high winds, rain, and snow are almost always going to be the top two areas that can get affected. Begin by checking your roof for lost or broken shingles and repair them as needed.
Storm shutters or impact-resistant windows can help shield your home from flying debris during major storms. Furthermore, ensure that any spaces around windows and doors are sealed properly to not allow water leakage or air drafts (which can cause more damage during heavy rains or snowstorms).
2) Gutter Care & Proper Drainage Systems:
Whether it be storm basics or heavy structure, poor drainage can leave your home severely damaged. If your gutters are clogged or broken, water may pool on your roof and perimeter of the foundation. This could increase damage due to flooding.
Remember to clean out your gutters of leaves, dirt and debris regularly before the rainy season starts. Gutter guards can be installed to increase the time between servicing. Ensure your downspouts are taking the water away from the home and make sure that you grade your yard so it slopes in a direction to prevent flooding (at least 1/4 inch slope per foot).
3) Prepare Wind and Debris Protection:
Even simple items can become hazardous projectiles in high winds, which are common during storms; sometimes leading to severe damage to the exterior materials of your home. Secure your property by cutting down tree branches that are liable to fall and cause damage.
If you live in an area that is struck by hurricanes or tornadoes, install these components to stand up better when the next spinning disaster strikes: a reinforced garage door, impact-resistant glass windows, strong-framed fences, and store or secure any outdoor furniture, potted plants, and garden tools to avoid them from becoming airborne in the winds.
4) Protect Your Fireplace and Chimney:
Homeowners who have a fireplace need to winterize the chimney so severe weather does not destroy it. Chimneys might not stay as stable once strong gales and heavy rain have battered it for years. Snow melt or ice build-up can cause obstructions.
Regular inspections and cleanings can help prevent issues. It might be time to contact a chimney sweep. This aids in preventing build-up that might block the air flow or cause a chimney fire during cold seasons. In addition to those advantages, installing a chimney cap is important. It can help prevent your chimney from becoming damaged during severe weather conditions by protecting it against debris and moisture.
In conclusion, severe weather is notorious for being unpredictable. However, if you take the proper precautions to safeguard your home from severe weather then damage will be much less likely. Scheduling regular maintenance, adopting smarter upgrades, and formulating a good emergency plan will enable you to combat these elements and meet the storm head-on with confidence. Take the steps to properly secure your home. Not only will it still be there after all things considered, but you can rest easy knowing that extreme weather is far less likely to cause damage to your home.
