How to Lessen Home Damage from Hurricanes and High Winds

Insurer Nationwide released these tips for preparing your home for a hurricane last week, just ahead of Florence. But hurricane season is still with us, so it\'s worth keeping these things in mind:

Secure outdoor items

Move items like patio furniture, garden décor and trash cans to an indoor location. Anchor larger outdoor objects such as a grill or play equipment. High winds can turn all of these items into projectiles that could do serious damage to people and property.

Trees and landscaping

Trim or remove trees that are close to buildings and fences to prevent damage if they fall. Also, remove any landscaping or foliage near utility lines that could pull down cables or wires.

Roofing

When it is feasible and safe to do so, inspect your roof or have a contractor evaluate its condition to ensure shingles are secured and there are no missing roofing components. Traditionally, a roof approaches the end of its useful life in 15-20 years. Consider having it replaced with a product that is more resilient to high winds and impacts.

Windows and doors

Make sure all windows and doors are closed and secured - including interior doors. Studies have shown that closing interior doors can minimize upward pressure on the roof, compromising the roof structure. Also, inspect the seals or caulking around windows and doors and seal any cracks or gaps that might allow water to enter.

Storm drains and sump pumps

Check storm drains, gutters and downspouts to ensure they are free of blockages that may prevent water from draining. If your home has a sump pump, inspect the unit to verify it's working properly, and consider adding a battery backup system.

Generators

While it might not fit into everyone's budget, a backup generator can keep the refrigerator cold and the lights on. Generator options range from compact portable units to permanently installed systems that automatically turn on when an outage occurs.

For more ideas about how to protect your home before a hurricane, visit the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety at https://disastersafety.org/hurricane/.