If you live in an area that’s prone to hurricanes, then you most certainly understand the importance of keeping yourself, as well as your property, well protected. After all, the hurricane season can bring about a lot of powerful storms, heavy rains, as well as high winds that can definitely pose a great threat to your property. So, some preparation in advance is in order, as it will help you minimize the damage, and thus keep yourself and your entire family safe in the process.
Are you, thus, wondering how to get prepared for the hurricane season? If the answer is yes, then here is what you should know. Most likely, you will have to invest in some home improvements in order to maximize everyone’s safety. But, if you haven’t had to do this in the past, then you are most likely a bit confused about what kinds of improvements I am talking about here.
Well, that is exactly what we are here to talk about. So, read on to find out what you need to know. Read on to find out how to keep yourself safe by keeping your property safe. Don’t let the next hurricane season catch you by surprise.
Essential Home Improvements for the Hurricane Season
Hurricanes carry great risks, as you probably already know. From the high winds that can break your windows and tear off roofs, to heavy rainfall and rising sea levels that can cause a lot of water damage or lead to flooding. So, knowing what kinds of home improvements to do in advance is essential, as those can really maximize your safety.
Securing the Roof
The first thing on the list of those parts of your home that you’ll need to think about here is the roof. After all, as you probably understand already, a weak roof can actually be lifted off by the high winds, leaving you exposed and vulnerable. So, you will have to inspect it and strengthen it as much as possible before the hurricane season. Secure the loose shingles and replace missing ones, make sure that the chimneys and vents are properly sealed, and use hurricane straps to anchor the roof to the walls, thus reducing the risk of detachment.
Improving Drainage
Another thing you should be concerned about during hurricanes is the possibility of flooding. And, you will have to do your best to reduce that risk. Meaning, thus, that improving your drainage is a must, as a properly working drainage system is sure to minimize the water damage.
Start by removing the debris from your gutters and cleaning them in order to improve water flow. But then, also think about using sandbags and other types of water-resistant barriers that can help protect the entry points of your property from the rising water. Furthermore, if you’re worried about your basement, it may be a good idea for you to install a sump pump, which will direct the water away from your home.
Strengthening the Walls and the Foundation
Moving on, you will also need to think about strengthening your properties foundation, as well as the walls. How can you do that, though? Well, for one thing, you should inspect for any cracks in the ceilings, walls and the foundation, so as to prevent water seepage. For another, you may want to apply water resistant sealants to protect the walls against mold growth and water damage in general. And then, you could also benefit immensely from reinforced concrete or masonry walls, so check if that is an option for you.
Upgrading Doors and Windows
Perhaps the most important thing you will have to do when it comes to home improvements that can protect you against hurricanes is this. Upgrade your doors and windows. And, upgrade them to those products that have been specifically made to withstand high winds and not to break on impact from flying debris. Such products exist, as you’ll definitely see when you visit Paradise Exteriors or similar places, and they have been the number one choice for people living in hurricane prone areas for a long time now. In short, I am talking about hurricane resistant, or impact resistant doors and windows.
Sure, you can also opt for installing hurricane shutters and heavy-duty deadbolts to reinforce your windows and doors. But, the best thing you can do is upgrade those completely, and have brand new ones installed – those that have been well rated for impact resistance. As mentioned, when you take a look at what Paradise Exteriors and similar companies have to offer, you will realize that upgrading doors and windows is the best solution for you when aiming at getting protected against hurricanes. So, you should take time to find the right products for you, as well as the right providers and installers, and then secure your home by having these successfully installed.
Choosing the Right Providers and Installers
The above brings us to another question. Since upgrading the doors and the windows is basically one of the most significant things to do before the hurricane season, and since you get that the quality will depend on the providers and the installers, you are now most likely wondering how to find the right ones for you. Naturally, this will require you to do some research, so don’t rush into anything, and don’t make any hasty decisions. Instead, take your time to find different providers and then research them in details before making your final choice.
Search for these companies online, or ask for recommendations from your neighbors and friends. Then, when you come across Paradise Exteriors and other companies offering these solutions, visit their websites to take a more detailed look at the specific products they have to offer. Of course, check their experience as well, and don’t forget to inspect the reputation, as you want to work with reliable and trusted providers and installers. Remember to also compare the costs, so as to ultimately get the best and the most reasonably priced solution.
