Weather patterns are changing, and this is creating larger storms than have been seen in the past. As these storms increase in frequency and strength, it is becoming increasingly important to ensure your coastal home is well prepared for them. Ensure that your roof and all entrances are strengthened and protected, that anything you have outside is brought in or secured, keep the necessary items for your safety if you are stranded at home, and do what you can to keep water away from the foundation of your home.
Roof and Entrances
A stronger roof will be more likely to remain attached and not suffer damages from storms with strong winds and flooding. A metal roof or one with architectural shingles and hurricane clips to keep the roof attached to the house can improve your chances of saving the home from damages. All windows should be high-impact windows, standing up to higher pressures and winds than a traditional glass window, as these are one of the most vulnerable parts of the home, with a reinforced and heavy garage door. A standard garage door can be blown in during a hurricane, and the pressure changes put your roof at an additional risk of being removed. You should also consider adding security doors to any outside facing room that has exposure to the elements. Security doors are not only beneficial for keeping criminals out, they can protect your home during heavy storms.
Outdoor Items
Anything kept outside, such as patio furniture or BBQs, should be moved into the garage or secured before a storm. Items that remain outside and are not properly secured can fly into windows causing damage or be washed away. Therefore, it is important to ensure that your belongings cannot cause damage to your home or the homes around you.
Necessary Supplies
It is important to prepare for the possibility of being stranded within the home to ride out any storm that occurs. While many places will evacuate, it is not an easy process, and not everyone will choose too, or be able to, leave in time and safely. Keep a generator on hand to allow for the use of electricity in case the power goes out, and this will allow you to recharge phones, radios, and safety devices. Keep a radio and flashlights that operate on battery power and fresh batteries to ensure you can remain up to date on the progress of the storm and power outages. A surge protector keeps electronics safe from power surges that can destroy them and help you stay in contact with emergency numbers and family. A disaster kit will include extra water, batteries, first aid supplies, and food. Keep enough for at least 72 hours, though it may be valuable to include enough for longer in high storm areas. A generator will help ensure you can safely cook the food in your disaster kit.
Keep Water Away from The Foundation
Using sandbags or similar can help create a barrier around the home to keep the water from reaching the foundations or leaking through the window. Also, ensure that downspouts are aimed away from the foundation so the water will roll away from the home.
