3 Ways To Storm Proof Your Home For The Next Hurricane

With your house being one of the largest investments you ever make, you want to be sure you do everything possible to protect it. Hurricanes cause thousands of dollars in damage. In fact, in 2012, Hurricane Sandy caused over $50 billion dollars in preliminary damages. Hurricanes can come up on your area at any time without much warning. If you want to protect your home completely, you have to be prepared ahead of time. This means thinking about everything from your roof to your garage door. If you want to set up your home to withstand the effects of a hurricane, here are some tips to consider. 

Garage Doors

Your garage door is the largest opening to your home. If it is hit with too much wind, it could end up buckling and the door can get torn off. With the garage door being one of the most vulnerable spots on the home, you want to equip it with the right features so it can function better during hurricane. You could end up spending over $2,000 replacing your garage door with one that can withstand hurricane force winds, or you can choose an alternative. Braces can be installed as an inexpensive alternative to help keep the door more sturdy with high winds. You can also install metal or aluminum panels that also make the garage door more durable. Check out a company like Door Depot Of SW FL Inc to find storm panels for your home.

Roofs

In an instant, your roof can get torn right off your home in a hurricane. In an effort to help make your roof more sturdy during a hurricane, you can install hurricane straps on your roof. These should be tied to the braces on the roof to help protect it better. This will keep the roof from tearing off due to high winds. Roof decking can also be helpful in ensuring that the roof stays on during a hurricane. Roof sheathing with at least a 19/32 inch thickness is recommended to protect your roof. This will help protect it not only from winds, but also rain. 

Windows

Your windows may help your home look great, but in a hurricane, they can become dangerous. You don't want shards of glass in your home during a hurricane. To better protect your home and windows, you want to consider installing hurricane film on each window. This can cost you about $25 per linear foot. The film is great because it can remain on the window all year long without being noticed. As you prepare your home for a hurricane, you want to consult with your insurance agent to see if they offer a discount on your insurance policy for being proactive. This will help offset the costs of the renovations.