Hurricanes can cause damage to your property in a variety of ways. Luckily, there are also many ways you can protect your home from the catastrophic effects of strong winds, rain and everything else a hurricane can bring. Here are three areas to focus on when hurricane-proofing your home:
Windows
Windows are an important feature to focus on when preparing for a hurricane. Broken windows can be the most common cause of damage and injury, whether from broken glass or structural damage. Consider installing high-impact windows throughout your home that can withstand the intense wind speeds and strengths of a hurricane. They'll help protect you against flying debris and water leakage with a lower likelihood of shattering under impact.
Roof
The roof is another part of your home that's particularly vulnerable to hurricane damage. If a roof is completely blown away or caved in, the elements can reach the rest of your home and cause tremendous damage. Two ways you can reinforce your roof for hurricane safety include metal roofing and architectural shingles.
Metal roofing made of tin, steel, aluminum, zinc or copper can be an expensive option but lasts a long time while providing excellent wind protection. Architectural shingles are thicker and heavier than traditional shingles and will provide better defense against the ravages of strong hurricane winds.
Entry Points
Your garage door is a huge entry point into your home and therefore a vulnerable point in a hurricane. If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, consider investing in hurricane-resistant garage door installation. These doors have extra reinforcement and hardware to help them withstand the pressure from strong winds.
You can also protect your garage door and other entry points into your home with removable metal panels. These are a more budget-friendly and flexible option because they are temporary. They also require some DIY work to mount them before a storm hits, so make sure you familiarize yourself with the process if you choose this route.
The better prepared you are for a hurricane, the less damage your home will take. Consider these options when formulating your disaster preparedness plan with your household.
About the Author
Jamie Jamieson
Professional Association National Association of Realtors (NAR) New York State Association of Realtors (NYSAR) Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors/ Hudson Gateway Multiple Listing Service Education I hold an A.A in Italian Studies and an A.S in Accounting as well as being one of few students accepted into the Cambridge University International Student Study Program abroad as a returning student in 2011. Community Involvement I am proud to serve on the Home & School Board for St. Augustine School in Ossining and maintain the role of a Girl Scout leader. I am an active member of the community assisting in a variety of fundraising efforts. Personal I am a young and energetic agent who prides myself on providing personalized service with honest representation whether you are buying or selling your home. My expertise of the river towns, attention to detail and excitement for real estate are a few of the many assets I will bring to you. I will utilize my eagerness and market knowledge of the area to build lasting relationships with all of my clients that will extend far beyond the closing table. Be at ease from start to finish with my help. In my spare time, I love exploring the Hudson Valley with my husband, three children and our dog, Pippin. I love scoping out the infinite restaurants, farmers markets and other fabulous activities this exciting county has to offer. Experience Before joining William Raveis Legends Realty Group I started my career with Hudson Homes Sotheby's International Realty team. Prior to real estate, I had a remarkable 15+ year career in Restaurant Management/Hospitality including Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, Rivermarket and several establishments in Newport, Rhode Island. My experience in that field provided me with the foundation of excellence in customer service. Areas Covered All of Westchester County and parts of Putnam County.