As the weather changes and we move into storm season, it’s important to be prepared. Here are some useful ways to get your home ready for whatever kind of inclement weather is in store. Keep reading to find out more.
Weatherproof your home and prepare an emergency kit
There are many ways to protect your property from damage in the event of a storm. Some simple steps you can take are boarding up windows to prevent them from being broken and filling any gaps or cracks in your home’s exterior that could allow water to seep in. This includes your roof, siding, and the areas around doors and windows.
A local contractor can get your home ready for storm season. For example, the All Weather Seal of West Michigan is a company that provides weatherproofing and insulation services for homes and businesses in West Michigan. They offer a variety of services to help prepare your home for a storm, including:
- Roofing services: leak repair, roof replacement, gutter installation
- Window and door sealing: weather seal, caulking, and insulation
- Steel roofing and siding installation
- Basement waterproofing and encapsulation
In addition to weatherproofing your home, it is vital to have an emergency kit prepared just in case you lose power or need to evacuate. This kit should include items like flashlights, batteries, food, water, and first-aid supplies.
Secure outdoor furniture
Securing outdoor furniture and other objects is an important step in preparing for a storm. Heavy winds can easily knock over trash cans, chairs, tables, decorations, and other items that are not secured. To secure outdoor furniture, use sandbags, ropes, or chains to weigh them down. Make sure all screws and bolts are tight, so they don’t come loose in the wind. If possible, bring patio furniture inside. If this is not an option, make sure it is adequately secured.
Fill up your bathtub
If you live in an area that is prone to storms, it’s important to be prepared. One way to prepare your home is to fill up your bathtub with water. This will give you a source of water in case the power goes out and you can’t run your taps. You can also use the water to flush your toilet if necessary.
Keep up to speed on weather information, and stay indoors
Waiting for a storm can be a nerve-wracking time. You must constantly watch the weather report or weather alerts on your phone and hope that the storm isn’t headed in your direction. But in case it is, you have to prepare your home for the possible damage that could be inflicted.
One of the most important things to do when preparing for a storm is to declutter your home. Storms can bring with them a lot of debris, such as tree branches and leaves, and if your home is cluttered, that debris can easily become a safety hazard.
So, before a storm hits, take some time to declutter your home. Clear off your countertops, remove any excess furniture, and ensure that all of your belongings are tucked away in cabinets and closets. This will not only make your home safer during strong winds and possible flooding but will also make it easier to clean up after the storm passes.
Stay indoors during a storm if possible, and avoid contact with floodwaters. If you have to go outside, be aware of potential hazards such as downed power lines or submerged objects.
There are many important things to do to prepare your home for a storm, such as stocking up on food and water, boarding up windows, and securing outdoor items. However, one of the most important things to do is pay attention to phone alerts and local weather forecasts for evacuation information. This will help to keep you and your family safe during a storm.
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