Last time you were catching up on our blog, you read about simple ways to make your home hurricane ready. Today, we are sharing more ways you can do this year-round. Preparing your home to withstand storms and hurricanes throughout the year will put your mind at ease once one arrives.
Get caught up:
If you have not already read our last blog, check it out. It was very informative, especially for Floridians. We left off by sharing the importance of securing your garage door. It is vital to close all doors and holes to prevent depressurization.
Seal cracks or holes:
We shared that depressurization can cause your house to collapse. Check for cracks of light around window and door frames. Seal or cover them as best as possible.
Not only is this necessary for making your home storm-ready, but it will help with your electricity bill because your air conditioner will not have to work as hard. Many Americans opt for plywood to secure windows because it is relatively inexpensive. It is generally stocked in every store, unless you wait until the last minute.
This is just yet another great reason to get your house ready for severe weather outside of hurricane season. When the news starts stirring people’s fears up before storms, plywood tends to be harder to find and even more expensive. Although this is generally not allowed, price gauging does happen.
According to Florida’s Division of Emergency Management, it is best to acquire plywood that is at least a half inch thick. This thickness provides some impact resistance. Be sure the plywood you purchase is suitable for outdoor use.
You may have impact-resistant windows, but you should still brace them and leave shutters closed according to licensed contractors in the Florida Keys. Do not waste your money on tape. It is said to be an old wives tale.
Tape will not protect your windows and can actually damage them. After the storm passes, tape removal will be an added chore. Gooey residue may be left on the glass, and people tend to scratch the glass while removing it.
Elevate items to avoid rust:
Discuss whether or not if you need to elevate your generator with a generator specialist at Sanford Electric Company II. Unplug any appliances you will not be using. Elevate them if you can just in case water comes inside.
Elevate vacuum cleaners or anything you would need for aftermath cleanup. If you are evacuating, roll up your floor rugs and put them vertically against a wall. When water enters a house, floor rugs act as huge sponges retaining water for long periods of time.
FEMA recommends turning off power and water lines right before you leave- if you plan to evacuate. Shut off the electricity and main water valve. To turn off power, find the circuit breaker panel. It is usually in the garage, basement, or laundry room.
Set the main circuit switch to the “off” position. To cut off the main water valve, walk the perimeter of your home. There will usually be a water meter mounted on the side exterior.
The main water valve should be just below it connected by a pipe. You may need to use a wrench to fully turn the valve clockwise. This should fully shut off the water supply to your house.
We hope our tips have helped you prepare for any future storms. If you like practical getting gifts for family members or friends, consider a generator and storm preparation supplies. This is a very thoughtful gift, so speak with our office today to order and install yours!
Have a wonderful and safe holiday season!
Staff Writer
