Storm Proofing Your Home

We are two months into hurricane season and the rains have only just begun. As the forecast darkens, does your home have what it takes to ride out the storm? See the tips below to ensure your home is ready for hurricane season.                                             

Safe Guard Your Windows– Ensure your windows have no gaps and are secured to handle strong winds. Consider getting shutters if your home doesn’t already have them.
Remove Potential Hazards From Your Yard– Summer fun necessities may turn into flying dangers if strong winds get a hold of them. Items like lawn chairs, patio furniture, rakes, fallen tree branches, children’s toys and anything not secured that could take flight with strong winds should be removed or secured to the ground.
Support Your Garage Door– The typical sandbags available at any home improvement store are good for this, along with ensuring your garage door is on its tracks and locked to withstand strong winds.
Clean Your Gutters– Ensure your gutters are free of debris, leaves and branches and check that they don’t have any tears or breakage to keep them flowing water off the house properly.
Consider a Generator– Always have a backup plan! This of course includes a back-up form of power. Small generators don’t cost too much and can keep you going in case of a long power outage.
Cover Your Air Conditioner– A small but useful step to storm-proofing your home can be as simple as purchasing a heavy duty cover for your air conditioner. Whether directly from the A/C manufacturer or an after-market offering, a cover can keep debris from being sucked into your A/C and causing a lot of damage.
Check for Gaps– Check for gaps in your floor, windows, door frames and ceilings. Immediately repair any place where water could seep in and cause damage, mold or weaken areas of your home.
Seal Your Doors– Ensure under and around your door frames are sealed tight. Like the garage door, placing something as simple as a sand bag in spots where water could come through could make a huge difference.

These small and inexpensive preventive tips can save you thousands in repair costs when storms strike especially here in the Lowcountry!