Hurricanes can cause damage to your property in a variety of ways. Luckily, there are also many ways you can protect your home from the catastrophic effects of strong winds, rain and everything else a hurricane can bring. Here are three areas to focus on when hurricane-proofing your home:
Windows
Windows are an important feature to focus on when preparing for a hurricane. Broken windows can be the most common cause of damage and injury, whether from broken glass or structural damage. Consider installing high-impact windows throughout your home that can withstand the intense wind speeds and strengths of a hurricane. They'll help protect you against flying debris and water leakage with a lower likelihood of shattering under impact.
Roof
The roof is another part of your home that's particularly vulnerable to hurricane damage. If a roof is completely blown away or caved in, the elements can reach the rest of your home and cause tremendous damage. Two ways you can reinforce your roof for hurricane safety include metal roofing and architectural shingles.
Metal roofing made of tin, steel, aluminum, zinc or copper can be an expensive option but lasts a long time while providing excellent wind protection. Architectural shingles are thicker and heavier than traditional shingles and will provide better defense against the ravages of strong hurricane winds.
Entry Points
Your garage door is a huge entry point into your home and therefore a vulnerable point in a hurricane. If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, consider investing in hurricane-resistant garage door installation. These doors have extra reinforcement and hardware to help them withstand the pressure from strong winds.
You can also protect your garage door and other entry points into your home with removable metal panels. These are a more budget-friendly and flexible option because they are temporary. They also require some DIY work to mount them before a storm hits, so make sure you familiarize yourself with the process if you choose this route.
The better prepared you are for a hurricane, the less damage your home will take. Consider these options when formulating your disaster preparedness plan with your household.
About the Author
Cary Garcia
As a real estate broker licensed in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., I work strictly by referral. For over 20 years, my success has hinged entirely on detailed, efficient service to clients like you.
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Finding a real estate agent is easy. Finding a skilled agent is the hardest…What separates me from other real estate agents is my extensive knowledge of contract law. You need an agent who understands the legality of the contract by enforcing the terms of the offer as well as all of the contingencies, addendums and disclosures. Before signing the offer, I will thoroughly explain the contract in detail, so you understand what you are committing to.I bring an expert’s perspective to help buyers and sellers make the right decisions.
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