How To Reinforce Your Home Against Storm Damage

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Living in an area where drastic weather patterns are common can be greatly inconvenient. Natural disasters lead to loss of property, livelihood, and lives. Over the years, however, people have taken drastic measures to secure their homes against such damage. Considering that last year alone, natural disasters cost property damage to the tune of $56.92 billion, you will want to protect your investments. Here are some proven ways to reinforce your home against storm damage.

  1. Trim trees around your house

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Trees add a natural appeal to the property and the immediate environment. Moreover, having them on your premises also acts as sunshades to protect the exterior of your home. For example, if you have vinyl siding on your structure, the presence of trees around the house can minimize the rate at which sun rays hit the house. This type of siding can warp, melt or form visible bubbles when exposed to constant heat from the sun. Unfortunately, despite the advantages trees offer, they can threaten your home in a storm.

Statistics indicate that 9 out of 10 homes with tall trees experience considerable damage from loose branches close to the structure. They can break windows or cause immense damage to your roof when they detach close to your house. Another part of the tree to be wary of is the base or the root. It can be difficult for a layperson to determine the state of a tree’s roots. Usually, trees like Balsam fir, Water Oaks, Cedar, and Willow Oaks show a solid base even when it might be weakening gradually. It is better to be on the safer side by getting experts to cut off a tree that poses a threat to your property. In some states, you may need to seek permission from the local authority before cutting a tree close to your property.

  1. Home shelters

With a storm shelter, you may not have to leave your home in the first place during a storm. In some households, the basement is a shelter from tornadoes and hurricanes. However, you can access pre-made safe shelters if you want proper protection against the storm. These can be installed in your home and still serve the protection purpose. Getting one that provides ample room for all household members is advisable. Apart from the pre-made shelters, you can fix storm shutters around your windows to increase protection. 

  1. Ensure proper sealing of doors and windows

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It is crucial to inspect your doors and windows to confirm if they can protect you against storms. The spaces and cracks underneath, above, and along the sides of your doors and windows can become weak links in the event of a rainstorm. These crevices become conduits through which stormwater finds its way into your home. A little opening is all a strong wind, or heavy rain needs to cause damage.

According to science, atmospheric pressure is responsible for why doors and windows get ripped off the hinges or frames. When these gaps remain unattended, strong winds get in and create pressure which causes the windows and doors to get blown outwards. It is therefore recommended to seal these gaps with caulk. Construction grade silicone seal is also ideal for this purpose.




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