Is It Possible To Minimize Hurricane Damage?

8/1/2022 (Permalink)

Hurricanes are a grim reality, particularly if you reside in the Gulf of Mexico or the eastern seaboard. Every year, they number in the double digits. For your family, property, and your home, damage can be costly and severe where the consequences of hurricanes are concerned. Permanent water damage can be caused by flooding that goes untreated. A mold infestation could be introduced into your home.

All is not lost, however. You can minimize hurricane damage. To protect your home, starting today, there's a lot you can do. The next time disaster strikes, you'll be able to relieve stress and save money with the right preventative measures.

Annual Inspections

Every year, you may wish to have a comprehensive home inspection done to make sure you stay on top of hurricane damage risks. Hidden dangers can lurk even if your roof seems sound, structurally. As much as possible, your basement should be watertight.

Flood Insurance

You may not be able to stop a flood, but you should be able to insure your home against the devastation of one. Make sure you have the right kind of insurance in place if you are in an area that experiences torrential rains, tsunamis, hurricanes, and other acts of God.

Safety Proof Your Yard

When you know a hurricane is threatening, prepare your yard. Grills, patio furniture, fallen trees, etc. can become missiles, capable of going through the side of your home or a window during a hurricane.

Appliances

Electrocution and electrical fires are a serious threat, even amid a rainy hurricane. To decrease electrical fire risks, unplug devices. If water pools in your home, steer clear of it in case it comes in contact with an electrical source.

Roof Safety

Rooftops have been ripped right off of buildings due to hurricane updrafts. During storms, keep your roof tightly in place with specially designed hurricane straps.

Garage Door Safety

To support the garage door and hold it down, on the door jams, at an angle, place several sturdy boards. You may also wish to invest in garage braces.

Valuables

To get them out of harm's way, relocate window air conditioners, stereos, TVs, computers, and other appliances. The attic is a good place to keep them away from floodwater.

Does Your Home Have a Safe?

To keep all of your important documentation free from harm – even in a flood – invest in a watertight safe. Your attic is a good location for the safe to help keep it away from floodwater.

Doors

You can attempt to keep flooding/blowing water out of your home by using sandbags in front of your exterior doors. For maximum protection, put the sandbags around the perimeter of your house, too.

Windows

Shattering, sharp glass can be one of the most serious dangers when hurricanes hit. It can damage furniture and floors, destroy walls, and endanger your family. When the forecast becomes dire, you can quickly close window coverings referred to as storm shutters. Don't wait until hurricane season hits to have them installed.

SERVPRO Manhattan – When A Hurricane Leaves Your Home Damaged

When major storms, hurricanes, and other natural disasters damage your home, the cleanup and restoration project that follows can seem daunting. We can help. We are SERVPRO Manhattan. For years, we have been a leader in the restoration industry. We will get to you faster than the competition, send in our highly trained technicians, and offer 24-hour emergency service.

Flood and storm damages require restoration techniques that are highly specialized. Precise equipment is needed for the job. With our expertise and experience, our locally owned and operated business can help restore your home to its former