Roofing Protection
Your customers’ roof is their first line of defense. We've seen too many homes where weak roofing became the starting point of devastating damage. We recommend reinforcing your roof decking with ring-shank nails; they're absolutely crucial for preventing wind uplift. During our restoration work, we've noticed that homes with proper secondary water barriers typically fare much better during storms. For maintenance, we can't stress enough the importance of regular inspections. Look for loose shingles, proper sealing, and sturdy attachments. When it comes to shingles, we strongly recommend investing in hurricane-rated options that can withstand high winds; they might cost more upfront, but they're worth every penny in hurricane-prone areas. Research about them online. GAF offers some great options, and they’re always a safe pick so we recommend them.
Windows and Doors Protection
For entry doors, we recommend installing deadbolts and reinforcement kits. Also, impact-resistant windows are absolutely worth the investment. When it comes to hurricane shutters, we've seen various types in action. Roll-down shutters, accordion shutters, and panel systems each have their merits. Remember, it's not just about having shutters—it's about having ones they can quickly deploy when a storm approaches. Don't forget their garage door—a reinforced garage door can mean the difference between a few minor repairs and catastrophic damage to both their garage and the car.
Outdoor Protection
You wouldn't believe how many times we've had to clean up damage caused by trees and outdoor items that became projectiles during storms. Always do proper landscaping with native species that have strong root systems. Regular tree trimming isn't just yard maintenance during hurricane season—it's a preparation measurement. For outdoor furniture, we recommend having a designated storage plan. Unsecured items can cause damage. Last but not least, don't forget about their gutters and drainage. Clogged gutters prevent proper water flow, and when that happens, water can sip inside the house.
Foundation Protection
Many of the above items you can replace—windows, doors, and even their roof. However, if their foundation is severely damaged, the house may not be livable in the worst-case scenarios. Our inspection checklist includes checking for cracks, ensuring proper grading, and verifying that water flows away from the house. Structural tie-downs are non-negotiable. Too many homes shift during storms because they weren't properly anchored. For waterproofing, we recommend professional-grade sealants and coatings.
Long-term Hurricane Protection
If they don’t have flood insurance, they should get it. Have them look into their current policies and re-evaluate their coverage. Premiums for additional flood insurance can be high, sure, but the hurricane season happens every year in places like Florida, so for them, this option isn’t really an option; it’s a must-have. If they’re a tenant, the same goes for them. Don’t count on their landlord for something this significant; take complete responsibility for their hurricane protection.
Wrapping It Up
From our experience, the best approach combines solid structural improvements with regular maintenance and proper insurance coverage. You don’t have to go as far, but we’d strongly advise you to implement more tips from this post than the ones you’ll ignore. Remember, every step you take to protect your customers’ home before a hurricane hits is an investment in their family's safety and peace of mind.
