Hurricane season is upon us! Beginning June 1st through November 30th, North Carolina stays alert to all things tropical as they have seen the worst of it, as recently as 2018 with Hurricane Florence.
Florence turned into a superstorm that wreaked havoc on the Carolinas. Many residents of these states weren’t prepared for just how intense the storm would be - even if they know that any category of hurricane can cause significant damage to their property - even a tropical storm.
We have already seen multiple systems pop up in the Atlantic Ocean through June and now into July which means you need to ensure that your home is ready before it’s too late!
Here are a few ways to be hurricane ready - including many ways that Parent Remodeling LLC can assist you in a timely and efficient manner:
- Roofing and Siding*
Make sure that your roof and siding are well intact. For high-wind scenarios, it is common for loose shingles to fall off. If you take preventative measures, they will be less likely to need replacement. - Keep supplies handy.
Dedicate storage for a three-day supply of water, dried or canned foods, and other essentials. Having the correct supplies always tops the preparedness list from the Hurricane Center. - Unplug electronics – even if you have a surge protector.
This is the best protection against surge-related damage - many residents in the area had fires during Florence for forgetting to unplug electronics, even appliances! - Check for leaks.*
Check doors, windows, and walls, such as areas where cables and pipes enter, for openings that could allow water to penetrate. You more than likely have a handful of them due to annual wear and tear from weather. - Prepare for long-term outages.
Consider purchasing a generator. It doesn’t have to be the expensive - just one to keep you going for a few days with the refrigerator or electric emergencies. Consider what you can’t live without if you were to be without electricity for a few days – such as a sump pump or well pump – and select a model that best fits your needs. - Trim trees and shrubbery.*
Trim back any branches touching your home. If they rub your roof, they could pull parts of it off in a storm. Keep trees well pruned to allow wind to pass through with minimal damage and debris. Consider re-grading around trees to strengthen the ground and give roots something to cling to. - Clean gutters.*
This could prevent potential roof damage and flooding inside your home. Not many people understand the importance of clean gutters, and while it can be dangerous - it is easier and safer to hire an insured professional to do this for you! - Clear clutter.
Prevent items from flying off into the neighborhood. Get rid of items you are no longer using, which can turn into projectiles. Bring lightweight outdoor items such as patio furniture, plants, toys, and trash cans inside. - Secure your home.*
Highly recommended are window shutters (not the pretty ones – the ones that protect your glass), roof clips (to hold your roof on – it is NOT too heavy to fly away), and garage door braces (to keep your garage door from blowing away). Anchor fuel tanks as well. Ensure all items are professionally installed. - Verify insurance coverage.
Avoid the wind and water debate. Check your homeowner’s policy and purchase additional flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program to ensure you have adequate protection if necessary.
Call 860-250-9631 or Contact Us for a free estimate today.