As pleasant as the weather can be, it can also cause damage when it’s harsh. After extreme weather events such as storms, hurricanes, and so on, people lose their homes, are injured, and are left with costly damage. Research on extreme weather patterns reveals the possibility of several homes being damaged in the next two decades, especially as there are significant weather changes due to climate change. Therefore, as a homeowner, thinking of practical ways to protect your home is essential. That includes home maintenance and other measures. Here is how to safeguard your home from harsh weather elements.
- Install storm shutters
Many households prefer to install storm shutters to act as barriers against flying debris and high winds. According to statistics, damage to doors and windows accounts for over half of the costly repairs after extreme weather. Fortunately, installing storm shutters over these areas can save you thousands of dollars in repairs. More importantly, however, storm shutters often reduce the risk of damage to your home by 52%. When you decide to install storm shutters, it’s important to know which types offer the most protection for your type of house. As expected, some are more expensive than others, meaning that you may have to make the final purchase decision. Sometimes, considering the long-term benefits rather than the immediate monetary cost is necessary. This way, you can effectively safeguard your home in extreme weather conditions.
- Maintain your roof
Your roof is one of the most vulnerable areas of your home during harsh weather. No matter how new your roof is, if there are defects or mistakes with the initial installation, your home will be at the mercy of extreme weather damage. For instance, strong winds can cause roof shingles to lift, while a heavy downpour begins the unending cycle of leaks and water damage. That is why roof maintenance cannot be overlooked. The best you can do is to schedule regular inspections, especially because they offer an opportunity to identify early signs of deterioration. If you live in a hurricane-prone area, your roof installer may recommend hurricane clips or straps to reinforce your roof. This way, no matter the storm category’s strength, there will be an increased chance of safeguarding your home from potential damage. While protecting your roof, remember to put in measures for heavy snowfall, as snow can weaken your roof. When you fail to clear your roof after a heavy snowfall, there is an increased risk of ice dam buildup, which adds more weight to your roof, reducing its structural strength.
- Seal gaps and cracks
Gaps and cracks around your home’s windows, doors, and other openings can allow water and wind to enter, leading to electrical damage and structural issues. Usually, after storm damage to your electrical system, it’s important to have your building inspected and repaired by a licensed electrician to ensure safety. Sometimes, you may be tempted to ignore signs of deterioration because they don’t seem to pose any imminent danger. However, the seemingly little things could escalate into critical issues in the long run. You can reduce the likelihood of extensive damage by scheduling regular inspections for your property. These checks allow you to identify and seal drafts with caulk or weather stripping. Additionally, paying particular attention to areas where utility lines enter your home would be best, as they are often vulnerable to leaks and drafts. The earlier you seal them, the better it will be for your home and its occupants.
- Maintain your home’s landscaping
Believe it or not, landscaping plays a significant role in protecting your home from the elements. As such, when planning your property’s landscape, combining style with functionality is prudent. A well-maintained and planned landscape can be the only difference between your home and costly damage after extreme weather. Remember to keep your trees and long branches trimmed to avoid them causing damage to your roof and windows in extreme weather. Sometimes, your landscaping specialist will find it necessary to construct a French drain to divert water from your property and save your foundation from cracks and intense water damage. These drains will be extremely useful during floods, heavy downpours, and when the snow melts around your property.
Your home should be a haven for you and your family. Therefore, planning adequately and providing your building with the necessary safeguards to stand even during the harshest weather is essential. Applying the above tips will help you protect your home from damage during extreme weather.