Autumn is a beautiful season, often characterized by its vibrant colors and crisp air. However, it also brings along a fair share of storms that can potentially cause damage to your home.
But not to worry, because we’ve got you covered! We’ve put together an informative guide packed with practical tips on how to protect your home from autumn storms.
It is essential to be proactive and take these steps to weatherproof your home before a storm strikes. We believe in being prepared, and with this guide, you’ll be able to face any storm confidently.
So, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and let’s dive in!
Inspect and repair the roof
One of the first steps to secure your home against autumn storms is to inspect and repair your roof. Look for loose or missing shingles that could potentially cause leaks during heavy rain.
For instance, I remember last year when my neighbor ignored a few loose shingles, and water ended up seeping into his home during a storm. So, I cannot stress enough how important it is to repair these as soon as possible.
Clean the gutters
Next, clean your gutters. Leaves and other debris can obstruct water flow, leading to overflow and potential water damage to your home. Regular cleaning, especially during autumn, can help prevent this.
Secure outdoor furniture and decorations
Also, secure your outdoor furniture and decorations. High winds can turn these items into projectiles, causing damage to your property. It’s best to either secure them properly or bring them inside.
Check windows and doors
Remember to check all your windows and doors to ensure they are properly sealed. This will prevent water leaks and drafts from entering your home during a storm.
Trim trees
Trimming trees near your home can also be beneficial. Remove any dead branches that could potentially fall on your home during a storm.
I recall a friend’s house getting damaged by a fallen branch during a storm last autumn. So, it’s best to be proactive.
Inspect your property for drainage issues
Ensure water can flow freely away from your home by inspecting your property for drainage issues. Blocked drainage can lead to water accumulation around your home, which can damage its foundations.
Prepare a home emergency kit
It’s always wise to prepare a home emergency kit with essential items like flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and enough food and water for at least three days.
Check your home insurance
Make sure your policy covers storm damage by checking your home insurance. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Install a home standby generator
In case of a power outage during a storm, a home standby generator can keep your home running.
Check and repair fences and sheds
Remember to check your fences, sheds, and other outdoor buildings for damage and repair them as necessary.
Install storm shutters or impact-resistant glass
Protect your windows from high winds and flying debris by installing storm shutters or impact-resistant glass.
Weatherproof your home
Seal any cracks or gaps in your home’s exterior to prevent water damage. Weatherproofing your home is essential for storm preparation.
Secure your garage
Make sure your garage door is sturdy and well-secured to prevent it from being blown off during a storm.
Install a sump pump
If your home is prone to flooding, a sump pump can help keep water levels at bay.
Create a family emergency plan
Last but not least, make sure everyone in the house knows what to do and where to go in case of a storm by creating a family emergency plan.
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Contents
- 1 Inspect and repair the roof
- 2 Clean the gutters
- 3 Secure outdoor furniture and decorations
- 4 Check windows and doors
- 5 Trim trees
- 6 Inspect your property for drainage issues
- 7 Prepare a home emergency kit
- 8 Check your home insurance
- 9 Install a home standby generator
- 10 Check and repair fences and sheds
- 11 Install storm shutters or impact-resistant glass
- 12 Weatherproof your home
- 13 Secure your garage
- 14 Install a sump pump
- 15 Create a family emergency plan