Inclement weather can cause some serious damage to homes, creating very costly repairs and a lot of stress on homeowners. Be it hurricanes, tornadoes, heavy rainfall, or snowstorms, one needs to have one's property fortified in advance. This article discusses various storm-resistant improvements that will add solidity to your home and be ready for the challenges presented by inclement weather conditions.
Before improvements are made, it is relevantly important to know the types of storms that are likely to affect your area. For example, hurricanes can bring heavy winds and flooding, while tornadoes can cause extreme damage suddenly. In addition, snowstorms may bring heavy amounts of snow that will affect your roof and driveways. Knowing what specific threats your home faces means that you will know which storm-resistant upgrades are most important.
The roof is your house's first line of defense against the elements. Probably the best and most effective upgrade for immediate protection is impact-resistant shingles or tiles. These can resist high winds and flying debris, giving you minimal danger of damage during violent storms (source: https://www.city-data.com/forum/hurricanes/125749-how-make-your-home-hurricane-resistant.html). Moreover, proper ventilation of your roof can prevent moisture buildups and help extend its lifespan.
Consider having a steeper pitch roof installed for areas receiving heavy snowfall records. More precisely, the steeply pitched roof does indeed allow the sliding of snow off the top easily, avoiding dangerous accumulations of snow that may cause structural damage. Other than that, periodic inspections and maintenance will also do the trick; clearing debris and minor issues before they grow into a huge problem can save you from costly repairs down the line.
Windows and doors are the most susceptible points of your home when it comes to storms. To strengthen their ability, consider installing resistant windows that are intended for heavy winds and flying debris. These usually consist of several layers of glass and a hard frame that afford far greater protection from flying wind-borne debris than regular glass.
In situations where it is not possible to completely replace the windows with impact-resistant ones, adding storm shutters to new or existing windows has proven effective. Storm shutters would be available whenever severe weather is threatened and serve as a secondary barrier against wind and debris. For doors, ensure they are of solid materials and consider deadbolts and strike plates to avoid forced entry through them during storms.
The exterior of your home can be hardened to resist strong winds. Begin by checking for and securing any loose siding and trim-these can become projectiles in strong winds. For this, use materials that are rated to resist wind, such as fiber cement or vinyl siding.
Another good issue is how to fasten outdoor furniture and decoration. During storms, lightweight external furniture and garden ornaments may become potentially dangerous missiles. Consider splurging on heavy-duty storage options or anchoring larger items to the ground to minimize this vulnerability. Landscaping choices can also make a difference: avoid planting tall trees near the house because their branches can become a hazard during storms.
Flooding is a concern for many homeowners, especially for those living in areas prone to much rain or storm surges. Homeowners can take steps by installing a sump pump in their basement or crawl space. This device removes excess water from your basement or crawlspace and further prohibits flooding from taking place.
Also, consider waterproofing your foundation. This would involve sealing with sealants or membranes to block water or providing drainage in a way that the water does not come near your house, which companies like Paradise Exteriors would know how to do. Yard grading can also prevent flooding issues by pushing water away from your residence. Or if you live in a place which is basically known for its flooding then think about re-elevating your home to stay safe from such climatic disasters. You may also consider flood barriers.
In addition, storm-resistant improvements can add energy efficiency to your home, thereby providing ancillary benefits beyond merely resisting weather. Good insulation can help even out inside temperatures, lowering energy bills and keeping a home more comfortable during storms. Energy-efficient windows can also reduce drafts and keep your home warmer during winter storms.
Moreover, the integration of renewable energy solutions, such as solar panels, has the added benefit of serving as backup power supplies in case of storm-related power outages. The most vital appliances will remain functional, thereby helping to ease some of the tension during periods of severe weather. Besides energy efficiency, upgrades can also enhance your home's overall value.
While structural improvements are essential, having a general emergency kit preparedness also equips one for storms. This kit could contain such essentials as non-perishable food, water, first aid supplies, flashlights, extra batteries, and a portable phone charger. Your kit should be regularly examined and updated for maintenance of items in good condition.
But next to that comes having an emergency plan. Discuss with your family the evacuation routes and means of communication in case a storm hits, so everyone would know what to do. Engage your household in practice drills so that everyone will feel prepared for and confident when the weather turns bad.
Making storm-resistant improvements to your home is a proactive means of protecting your property and keeping your family safe during harsh weather. Each step taken in making a house resilient, from roof and window strengthening to flood-proofing, even to preparing an emergency kit, helps. Knowledge of the risks of storms helps in taking right steps for huge reduction in damages and significantly enhances peace of mind.
It is where you spend a lot of your time, and thus it is best to always invest some time and resources into strengthening your home. This way, loved ones will be inside the safety of the house irrespective of what transpires outside due to Mother Nature. Take that journey which will make your home more resistant to storms and sleep better knowing you have instituted some important things in terms of safeguarding your property.
