2020 was a historic and devastating year for the US regarding climate disasters. According to the National Centers for Environmental Information, there were 22 different billion-dollar climate disasters across the US in 2020, causing $95 billion in losses.
The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season was extremely challenging for Americans. There were a total of 30 named storms, more than any other previous year. 2020 even surpassed 2005, the year of Hurricane Katrina, which saw 28 storms.
AccuWeather’s forecast says that 2021 will be an above-average season for tropical activity and storms in the Atlantic. Even though 2021 might not be as bad as 2020, it will likely be a challenging year for areas of the country prone to storms. Taking these steps now can protect your home prevent damage to your property.
Inspect the Roof to Prevent Wind and Water Damage
The first thing you should do to protect your home from storms is to inspect the roof to see if it’s in good condition. Use binoculars to see all the small details or get a closer view from the attic.
Look for any loose or missing shingles and rotting wood that can happen over time due to previous weather damage or excess humidity. If you notice any green or white patches on your shingles, you may have mold or mildew.
Make the necessary repairs so that your roof is in perfect condition before storm season. In some cases, a roof might be so old that it’s time to replace it entirely. If you suspect your roof isn’t up to date, have a professional contractor inspect it.
Clean Gutters to Allow Water to Flow Properly
A key measure to protect your home from storms is making sure the gutters are working correctly. Gutters and downspouts are typically attached to the roof and prevent flooding or leaks in case of a storm. Ensure all the gutters are clear and nothing is blocking the flow of water away from your home.
If you experience water puddles in your yard during normal rain, you might have a flooding problem during a tropical storm or hurricane. In this case, you want to look at any landscaping issues causing the accumulation of water. Consider adding a grade to your lawn in a way that leads water away from the house.
Prepare Your Yard to Eliminate Flying Projectiles
It’s essential to remove any objects from your yard that the wind could throw around during a storm. Heavy objects could impact your home, damaging windows, downspouts, or roofs.
To prevent this problem, trim tree limbs that are too close to the house. Also, prune large shrubs and dead branches that could easily break off. One option some people use is establishing a windbreak by planting solid and tall trees around the property.
Before a storm, you should put away all small unsecured objects, garden tools, lawnmowers, bikes, garbage cans, and potted plants. Make sure all outdoor sheds are locked and closed tightly.
Strengthen Windows, Doors, and the Garage Door to Prevent Wind and Water Damage
Ensure windows and doors are correctly sealed as leaking water can cause damage to flooring, drywall, or insulation. , You can also protect your windows with storm shutters or by nailing pieces of wood to the outside window frames.
Fill Foundation Cracks With Caulk and Mortar or Hydraulic Cement to Prevent Water from Entering the House
Cracks in the foundation of a home could be a root cause of flooding. Walk around the perimeter of your home and look for any cracks in the pavement. If you notice any, fill them with caulk, mortar, or cement so that water can’t flow through.
Unplug All Unnecessary Electrical Items from Outlets to Protect Your Home and Your Items from Power Surges
In case of a storm, the Department of Homeland Security recommends unplugging all devices without exception as a lightning strike can cause an electricity surge through the power lines affecting devices. When a power surge happens, the voltage coming through the power lines is extremely high, and your home appliances can’t withstand it and may blow fuses, motors, or more.
Move Portable Items to Higher Floors or on Tabletops
Any small appliances, including vacuum cleaners, TVs, stereos, and rugs, should be moved to tabletops or secure cabinets. Also, elevate items in the garage, such as the lawnmower, pool chemicals, and grills for protection in case of flooding. If your house gets flooded during a storm, the water could ruin all devices placed on the floor.
Get Your Car Ready
Make sure your car is ready before the storm hits you. Park your car in your garage or another protected area. Keep an emergency kit in your car with jumper cables and a reflective triangle. You can read more about preparing your vehicle and what to include in the emergency kit from ready.gov.
Review Your Homeowner’s Insurance Coverage Limits
Most standard homeowner policies usually cover storm damage. However, a common misconception is that home insurance covers flood damage, which it doesn’t. In some areas, it also doesn’t cover wind damage. Check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see exactly what coverage it offers.
You may need to add flood insurance or named storm hurricane insurance which sometimes takes 30 days to go into effect. Also, you should determine if you need a separate business insurance policy if you are running a home-based business or working from home.
Prepare Your Home for 2021 With Big State Construction
Big State Construction can help you prepare for the storms of 2021. One of our professionals can come to your home and assess how you can protect your home and yourself from storms. We can help you fix your home’s roof, improve the drains and gutters, or solve any water damage you might have. For more information, contact us online or call us at 713-574-8956.