To protect your house from a hurricane, begin by securing windows and doors with impact-resistant shutters or plywood to prevent shattering from flying debris. Reinforce your roof with straps or hurricane clips to secure it against strong winds that can cause lifting. Consider installing storm-proof garage doors to maintain the structural integrity of your home. Surround your property with proper landscaping, including the removal of weak trees that could fall on your house during a storm. Lastly, create an emergency kit, including water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, and important documents, ensuring you are prepared for any situation.
How To Protect A House From A Hurricane
Install storm shutters on windows
Installing storm shutters on windows is a crucial step in hurricane protection for your home. These durable barriers can reduce the impact of flying debris, ensuring a safer indoor environment. Choose between roll-down, accordion, or impact-resistant shutters, with impact-resistant options often rated to withstand winds up to 140 mph. Properly securing your windows with storm shutters can significantly lower the risk of glass breakage and water damage during a hurricane.
Reinforce garage doors and entry doors
Reinforcing garage doors involves installing impact-resistant panels, which can boost structural integrity by up to 50%. Consider adding a security brace or a track lock to your entry doors, providing a barrier that can withstand winds exceeding 130 miles per hour. You can also seal any gaps with weather stripping to prevent water intrusion. Evaluating the strength of your hardware and upgrading to heavy-duty deadbolts will ensure your doors remain intact during a hurricane.
Secure or remove outdoor furniture and decorations
Securing or removing outdoor furniture and decorations is crucial for hurricane preparedness, as these items can become dangerous projectiles. Ensure that items like patio chairs, umbrellas, and potted plants are either brought inside or securely tied down, especially if you live in areas prone to high winds. In addition, consider using heavy-duty tarps or storage bins to protect smaller decorations and tools from being scattered or damaged. By taking these steps, you significantly reduce the risk of property damage and enhance the safety of your home during a hurricane.
Trim trees and remove dead branches
Trimming trees and removing dead branches significantly reduces the risk of wind damage during a hurricane. Tall trees with weak or damaged branches can become hazardous, potentially smashing windows or roofs during severe storms with wind speeds exceeding 74 mph. Keeping trees well-trimmed, with branches no closer than 6 feet from your home's roof, enhances stability and safety. Regular maintenance ensures that your landscape is resilient, reducing the chances of costly repairs after a hurricane.
Seal gaps and cracks to prevent water infiltration
Sealing gaps and cracks is crucial for hurricane preparedness, as even small openings can lead to significant water infiltration during a storm. Use high-quality weather-resistant caulk or expanding foam to fill gaps around windows, doors, and the foundation, ensuring a waterproof barrier. Consider applying storm shutters or impact-resistant windows to further protect against wind-driven rain. Regularly inspect and maintain your home's exterior to identify and seal any new gaps that may develop over time, enhancing your overall hurricane resilience.
Install hurricane straps or clips for roof reinforcement
Installing hurricane straps or clips is crucial for reinforcing your roof against hurricane forces. These metal connectors create a secure bond between the roof trusses and the walls of your home, significantly reducing the risk of roof uplift during severe winds, which can reach speeds of up to 150 mph. You should ensure that you select straps and clips that meet local building codes and are designed for your specific roof type, as this will enhance overall stability. With proper installation, these materials can improve the structural integrity of your house, helping protect your investment and keeping your family safe during hurricane season.
Elevate or move valuables above potential flood levels
Elevating your valuables above potential flood levels is crucial for protecting your home during a hurricane. Ideally, place essential items at least 12 inches above the projected flood elevation; this minimizes the risk of damage from rising waters. Consider relocating important documents, electronics, and valuable heirlooms to higher floors or using waterproof containers for extra security. Install shelves or cabinets in elevated areas to easily organize and store these items, ensuring they remain safe and accessible when severe weather strikes.
Ensure proper drainage around the property
Ensure proper drainage around your property by inspecting and maintaining gutters, downspouts, and drainage systems to redirect water away from your foundation. Landscape grading should be sloped away from your home to prevent pooling and erosion during heavy rainfall. Clear debris from drainage ditches and culverts to maintain unobstructed water flow. Investing in a sump pump or a French drain can provide additional protection against flooding during a hurricane.
Install a reliable backup power source
Installing a reliable backup power source, such as a generator, is crucial for protecting your house during a hurricane, particularly if severe weather disrupts the electrical grid. A unit with at least 5,000 watts can power essential appliances like refrigerators and medical equipment, ensuring your family's safety and comfort. Additionally, consider a transfer switch, which allows for safe connectivity between your home and the generator, reducing the risk of electrical hazards. Regular maintenance and testing of your power source ensure functionality when you need it most, so inspect it at least twice a year.
Develop and practice an emergency evacuation plan
Develop an emergency evacuation plan by identifying multiple routes away from your home and notifying all family members about these paths. Designate a meeting point outside your immediate neighborhood where everyone can gather if separated during the evacuation. Practice this plan regularly, allowing your family to become familiar with the process and reducing stress during an actual emergency. Ensure to have essentials packed, including water, food, medications, and identification, which can significantly enhance your preparedness and safety during hurricane conditions.