Making your home more resilient to the weather is a wise investment. Whether you live in an area that is prone to severe storms or just want to be prepared for the occasional natural disaster, there are many things you can do to make your home stronger. This blog post will discuss five of the most important home improvements you can make to help your home withstand the test of the elements!
1) Installing storm windows and doors
The first line of defense against severe weather is your home’s windows and doors. If they are not properly protected, high winds can blow them in, allowing rain and debris to enter your home. To fortify your windows and doors, install storm windows and doors. Hurricane windows are made of impact-resistant glass or polycarbonate and are designed to withstand the force of flying debris. Storm doors add an extra layer of protection and can be made of metal or heavy-duty plastic.
Flying debris is not only a danger to your windows and doors; it can also damage outdoor furniture and decorations. To protect your patio furniture and garden décor, secure them with straps or tie-downs. This will keep them from being blown away or damaged by flying debris.
2) Reinforcing your roof
Your roof is one of the most vulnerable parts of your home during a storm. High winds can cause shingles to blow off, leaving your roof exposed to the elements. To prevent this from happening, reinforce your roof by installing hurricane straps or clips. These devices secure your roof to the rest of your house, preventing it from being blown away in high winds.
3) Maintaining your gutter system
The gutters on your home play an important role in protecting it from the elements. They channel water away from your foundation, preventing flooding and water damage. However, if they are not properly maintained, they can become clogged with leaves and debris, causing them to overflow. To prevent this from happening, regularly clean your gutters and downspouts. Additionally, you can install gutter guards to keep leaves and debris out.
4) Trimming trees and shrubs
Trees and shrubs can provide much-needed shade and privacy for your home. However, during a storm, they can also become deadly projectiles. To prevent this from happening, regularly trim trees and shrubs so that they are not close enough to your home to cause damage. In addition, if you have any trees that are dead or dying, remove them completely. Dead trees are more likely to fall and cause damage to your home during a storm.
5) Installing a generator
If you live in an area that is prone to power outages, consider installing a generator. A generator can keep your lights on and your fridge running during a power outage. It can also prevent your home from becoming dangerously hot or cold if the power is out for an extended period of time.
By taking these steps, you can make your home more resistant to the effects of severe weather. This will help to keep you and your family safe during a storm and reduce the risk of damage to your home.
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