Steps to Take to Prepare Your Home for a Storm
By Anita Ginsburg
Storms can be unpredictable and destructive. It’s important to take steps to prepare your home for storm season in order to minimize the risk of damage, both physical and financial. From checking your roofing materials to securing windows and doors, there are several steps you can take now to protect your home from the elements. Read on for a guide on how to prepare your home for the next big storm.
Check Your Roofing Materials
The first step in preparing your home for a storm is to check the condition of your roofing materials. Make sure that all shingles and tiles are securely fastened and that any loose or damaged pieces have been replaced. If you’re not sure if everything is up to code, it may be beneficial to call in a professional roofer who can inspect your roof and make sure it’s ready for the next big storm; roofing contractors can also provide valuable advice on how best to prepare your home for a storm.
Secure Windows & Doors
Once you’ve taken care of your roof, it’s time to move on to windows and doors. Make sure all windows are closed tightly and that any screens or shutters are properly secured. Also check the condition of door frames; if they’re cracked or warped, they may need to be repaired before a storm hits. Additionally, consider adding waterproof seals around windows and doors as extra protection against water damage during heavy rains or flooding.
Clear Gutters & Downspouts
It’s also important to clear out any debris from gutters and downspouts prior to an approaching storm in order to ensure proper drainage of rainwater away from your home’s foundation. If possible, make sure all gutters are angled downwards so that water doesn’t sit near the foundation walls or seep into cracks in the mortar joints. In addition, check that all downspouts extend several feet away from the foundation walls so that water won’t accumulate near them either.
Preparing your home for a storm doesn’t have to be overwhelming; with a few simple steps you can significantly reduce the risk of damage during severe weather events. Start by making sure your roofing material is secure, then move on to securing windows and doors before clearing out any debris from gutters and downspouts around your home’s foundation Finally, consider calling in a professional roofer if you need help inspecting or repairing certain elements of your property prior to an approaching storm. With these steps taken care of ahead of time, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you did everything possible when it comes time for Mother Nature’s next big show.
About the Author
Bio: Anita is a freelance writer from Denver, CO. She studied at Colorado State University, and now writes articles about health, business, family, and finance. A mother of two, she enjoys traveling with her family whenever she isn’t writing. You can follow her on Twitter @anitaginsburg.
