How to Hurricane Proof Your Home: Essential Tips
How to Hurricane Proof Your Home?
To hurricane-proof your home, there are several important steps you can take.
First, consider purchasing and installing a generator to provide power during a long-term power outage.
Next, install permanent storm shutters on windows or replace them with hurricane glass.
Reinforce the seam where the roof meets the house using a construction adhesive and consider installing hurricane clips.
Ensure that your garage door is hurricane-proof or impact-resistant and reinforce it with a bracing kit.
Cover glass windows and doors with shutters, siding, or plywood.
Additionally, bring indoors any loose objects in the yard and clean rain gutters to ensure water can run off properly.
Add extra chlorine to your pool to prevent contamination by storm water.
Lastly, secure items inside your home that could be thrown around by the wind, tape or tie cabinets shut, remove items from window sills, counter and table tops, and close closet doors securely.
Key Points:
- Purchase and install a generator for long-term power outages
- Install permanent storm shutters or hurricane glass on windows
- Reinforce the roof-to-house seam and consider adding hurricane clips
- Ensure garage door is hurricane-proof and use a bracing kit for reinforcement
- Cover glass windows and doors with shutters, siding, or plywood
- Bring loose objects indoors and clean rain gutters for proper water runoff
Did You Know?
1. Did you know that the first recorded hurricane in history occurred in 1495, affecting the northern islands of the Caribbean?
2. In 2005, Hurricane Ivan produced a rare phenomenon known as “seiche,” causing water levels to rise and fall dramatically in Lake Pontchartrain, Louisiana, over several hours.
3. One way to hurricane-proof your home is by installing impact-resistant windows, which are capable of withstanding winds up to 200 mph without breaking.
4. The only category 5 hurricane to make landfall in the United States in the month of November was Hurricane Camille in 1969, causing significant devastation along the Gulf Coast.
5. Storing important documents and valuables in waterproof containers as part of your hurricane preparedness plan can help protect them from potential water damage.
Purchase And Install A Generator For Power Outages
When preparing your home for hurricane season, it is crucial to consider purchasing and installing a generator to provide power during a long-term power outage. Hurricanes often bring strong winds and heavy rainfall, which can leave homes without electricity for days or even weeks. Investing in a generator can ensure that essential appliances, such as refrigerators and medical equipment, continue to function during these challenging times.
When selecting a generator, it is important to choose one that is appropriate for your power needs. Consider the appliances and devices you would like to power during an outage and calculate their total wattage. This will help you determine the size and type of generator that is suitable for your home. Additionally, consult with a licensed electrician to ensure proper installation and safe operation of the generator.
Install Storm Shutters Or Hurricane Glass On Windows
Windows are highly vulnerable during a hurricane, making it essential to take proper precautions. One effective method is to install storm shutters or replace windows and doors with hurricane glass. Storm shutters act as a protective barrier against strong winds, flying debris, and heavy rainfall. They can be either permanently installed or added temporarily when needed. Another option is hurricane glass, which is specifically designed to endure high impact and prevent shattering.
Before proceeding with the installation, it is crucial to measure the windows accurately and select appropriate materials. There are several types of storm shutters available, such as accordion shutters, roll-up shutters, and colonial shutters. When deciding, take into consideration factors like ease of use, durability, and aesthetic appeal, in order to make the best choice for your home.
Reinforce Roof Seam And Consider Hurricane Clips
The roof of a house is vulnerable to damage during a hurricane because of the strong winds and uplift forces it experiences. To strengthen the seam where the roof meets the house, use a construction adhesive specifically designed for this purpose. Apply the adhesive along the joint to enhance the bond between the roof and the house, making it more resistant to wind uplift.
In addition to using construction adhesive, consider installing hurricane clips or straps. These metal connectors provide extra strength and stability to the roof structure, reducing the risk of damage and potential for roof detachment. Hurricane clips should be properly installed by a professional, ensuring they are securely fastened to both the roof truss and the wall frame.
Ensure Garage Door Is Hurricane-Proof And Use Bracing Kit
The garage door is often overlooked when hurricane-proofing a home, yet it can be a weak point during a storm. It is crucial to ensure that the garage door is hurricane-proof or impact-resistant, capable of withstanding strong winds and debris impact. Consider installing a reinforced garage door with heavy-duty materials, such as steel or aluminum.
To further strengthen the garage door, use a bracing kit. These kits provide additional support to the door and prevent it from buckling under high wind pressure. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when installing the bracing kit, ensuring that all components are securely fastened. It is also advisable to consult with a professional to ensure proper installation and functionality.
Protect Windows And Doors With Shutters Or Plywood
If storm shutters or hurricane glass are not an option for your home, covering windows and doors with shutters, siding, or plywood can effectively protect them. This creates a physical barrier against wind, rain, and debris, reducing the risk of damage to your home’s interior.
Before a hurricane approaches, it is important to measure each window and door to determine the amount of material needed. If plywood is being used, a thickness of at least 5/8 inch should be chosen to provide sufficient strength. Secure the shutters, siding, or plywood using appropriate fasteners, such as screws or nails, to ensure a tight fit. Prepare in advance by storing all necessary materials and ensuring they are readily accessible when needed.
Secure Loose Objects And Clean Rain Gutters For Proper Water Runoff
In preparation for a hurricane, it is important to secure any loose objects in your yard that could potentially become projectiles during high winds. Patio furniture, garbage cans, and planters should be brought indoors or properly anchored to prevent them from causing damage to your property or neighboring homes.
Additionally, make sure to clean rain gutters to ensure proper water runoff. Clear any debris, such as leaves and twigs, that may clog the gutters and downspouts. This will prevent water from accumulating on the roof and overflowing, potentially causing water damage to your home’s interior.
By following these essential tips to hurricane proof your home, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage and increase the safety of your property during severe weather events. Remember to consult with professionals when needed and stay informed about local emergency procedures to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can we protect from hurricanes?
To protect from hurricanes, it is essential to prioritize safety by taking appropriate measures against high winds and flooding. Seek shelter in designated storm shelters or interior rooms that can withstand strong winds. If trapped by flooding, it is crucial to move to the highest level of the building rather than climbing into a closed attic, as this could pose additional risks. Additionally, staying informed about evacuation orders, securing loose objects outside, and having an emergency preparedness kit at hand can all contribute to minimizing the impact of hurricanes and ensuring personal safety.
How do you hurricane proof windows?
To hurricane-proof your windows, it is crucial to use sturdy storm shutters instead of taping them. Taping windows is ineffective and can lead to more harm during a storm. If shutters are not available, using thick plywood is a suitable alternative. Additionally, it is essential to keep windows closed during a hurricane and clean up the yard beforehand to minimize potential hazards. Another effective measure is to apply impact-resistant window film, which adds an extra layer of protection against strong winds and debris. By following these steps, you can increase the resilience of your windows during a hurricane.
Are hurricane windows bullet proof?
Hurricane windows, while effective in safeguarding against the destructive forces of hurricanes, are not bulletproof. The main purpose of these windows is to endure the impact of flying debris during severe weather conditions. Although they are treated with a laminate that enhances their strength, this reinforcement does not offer the same level of protection against bullets as it does against hurricane winds. Therefore, while hurricane windows are an excellent defense against natural disasters, they are not intended to withstand ballistic threats.
1. What are the best methods to hurricane-proof the windows and doors of your home?
There are several effective methods to hurricane-proof windows and doors in your home. One approach is to install impact-resistant windows and doors, which are specially designed to withstand strong winds and flying debris. These windows and doors are made with laminated glass and reinforced frames, providing an extra layer of protection. Another method is to install storm shutters, which can be made of metal or impact-resistant glass. These shutters can be closed during a hurricane to protect the windows and doors from damage. Additionally, reinforcing or retrofitting existing windows and doors with hurricane clips or brackets can enhance their strength and resistance to high winds. It is advisable to consult with a professional to determine the most suitable method for your specific needs and budget.