While having a reliable home insurance policy is important, it’s also important to do what you can to avoid filing a claim. This includes protecting your home from storm damage.
Invest In Smart Landscaping
Pay careful attention to the land around your home. Storms can often cause fallen trees and floods. Make sure your home is at the top of an incline or that the land around it slopes outward from the home to avoid rainwater or floodwater pooling around the home and damaging the foundation. Trim away any trees or overhanging branches that could fall on the home.
Upgrade To A Storm-Resistant Roof
Old roofs are more likely to be severely damaged or ruined by a bad storm, so it’s important to always keep them updated. Consider upgrading to a roof that is hail and weather resistant in order to lessen possible damage.
Roofs can be expensive, however. If you can’t afford to replace your roof, be sure to replace missing or damaged shingles immediately. Also keep an eye on the ceilings for any signs of water damage.
Reinforce Windows And Doorframes
Strong wind and hail have been known to blow doors open and shatter windows. Switch your windows to shatterproof glass and reinforce the frames of all doors and windows in order to prevent wind from blowing them open or rain seeping through. It also helps to keep your locks updated.
Keep Gutters Clear And Sump Pumps Working
Rain and trash can build up in gutters and lead to damage to the home during a storm. Storms can also ruin a sump pump if not maintained properly. Each part of the home should be maintained to lower the risk of damage.
Secure Possible Projectiles
Just as with trimming trees, homeowners should also walk their property to identify anything else not secured that could possibly be swept up in high winds and cause damage or injury. This may include insecure fence posts, outdoor signs, yard furniture, tools and flowerpots.
Storms can be frightening, but a lot of damage and injury can be prevented by taking the right precautionary measures. A backup generator can help keep your food cold and provide power in case of a blackout. Also have flashlights, a radio and first aid kit on hand. Everyone in the home should know a clear plan of where to go and what to do in the event of a bad storm.
