Preparation is key when the sky starts to darken, and the wind picks up speed. Small issues around your property can quickly turn into major repair bills if they are not fixed early.
Checking the outside of your home helps protect your family and your wallet. Spending a few hours now can save a lot of stress when the heavy rain arrives.
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Inspecting Your Roof Health
Checking the top of your house is the first step in storm safety. Look for shingles that are curling or missing entirely. These gaps allow water to seep into your attic during a heavy downpour.
You should check for loose metal flashing around chimneys and vents. Strong winds can rip these pieces away, creating direct paths for leaks. It is better to find these problems when the weather is clear.
A solid roof acts as a shield for everything inside your home. Regular checks keep your structure strong and dry for years, as these Omega Roofing experts suggest. If you see signs of wear, it might be time to call a pro.
Gutter And Drainage Maintenance
Clear gutters are your best defense against water damage during a storm. You should check your downspouts at least twice a year.
This simple task keeps water moving away from your foundation and prevents costly soil erosion.
Leaves and twigs often build up and block the path of rain. When water cannot flow through the pipes, it spills over the sides and pools near your walls. This pooling can lead to foundation cracks or basement floods.
Check the brackets that hold your gutters to the house. Heavy rain adds a lot of weight to these systems. If they are loose, the entire gutter could fall during a severe weather event.
Tree Trimming And Limb Removal
Tall trees add beauty to your yard, but they can pose a serious threat. Dead or weak branches often break off during high winds and land on your roof. Taking the time to prune these limbs can prevent thousands of dollars in damage.
A recent safety publication recommended that homeowners check limbs for structural weakness before they start cutting.
It is a good idea to let professionals handle any trimming that happens near electrical lines. Staying safe is the most important part of any outdoor project.
Keep an eye out for trees that lean heavily toward your house. Soil softens during prolonged rain, making it easier for trees to tip over.
Removing risky branches now provides peace of mind when the wind starts to howl.
Window And Door Seals
Windows are often a weak point in your home during a storm. Check the caulking around the edges of every window frame for cracks or peeling. Water can find its way through even the smallest openings and rot the wood inside your walls.
Checking Entrances
Doors need attention, especially the ones leading outside. Look at the weatherstripping at the bottom of your front and back doors. If you can see light coming through the bottom, wind and rain can definitely get inside.
Replacing old seals is an affordable way to stay dry. It helps with your energy bills by keeping the outside air where it belongs. Spend a Sunday afternoon checking every entrance to make sure they are tight.
Exterior Siding And Foundation
The walls of your home take a beating from flying debris and driving rain. Inspect your siding for any loose or cracked pieces. High winds can get under loose siding and rip it right off the house.
A government resource recently mentioned that weatherization assistance programs exist to help low-income households with critical repairs.
These programs can be a great help if your home needs major work to stay safe. Taking advantage of these resources can make your property much more resilient.
Walk around the base of your home to look for cracks in the foundation. Small cracks might seem minor, but they can let water into your basement or crawl space. Sealing these gaps is a quick fix that prevents a much bigger headache later.
Outdoor Furniture And Debris
Anything left in your yard can become a projectile during a storm. Patio chairs, garden tools, and even heavy potted plants can fly through windows if the wind is strong enough.
It is best to have a plan for where these items will go when a storm warning is issued.
Cleaning up the yard is a group effort that makes the whole neighborhood safer. Secure these common items:
- Patio umbrellas and chairs
- Bikes and lawn mowers
- Empty trash cans
- Kids' toys and play sets
Organizing your yard doesn't take long but makes a huge difference. Store smaller items in a garage or shed where they cannot be moved by the wind.
If you have large items that cannot be moved, try anchoring them to the ground.
Getting your home ready for storm season is a smart move for every homeowner.
Taking these small steps now helps you avoid big repairs later on. You will feel much better knowing your property is prepared for whatever the weather brings.
Safety starts with a simple walk around the yard to look for trouble spots.
Fixing leaks, trimming trees, and clearing gutters are the best ways to protect your investment. Stay proactive and keep your household safe this season.
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