The last thing you want is to be in the way of a hurricane. Unfortunately, these tropical phenomena can lead to fear in you and your loved ones, but they can also cause a lot of damage to your property. Hurricane proofing your home is not only going to protect your home from natural elements but also give you peace of mind.
Hurricanes are tropical cyclones that create a rotating, low pressure zone which can damage and even uproot objects that are weak against its strength. Protecting your home against hurricanes requires special equipment and materials that can withstand the force of the winds. With that in mind, here are five tips that can help you better understand how to hurricane proof your home.
High-Impact Windows
Strong winds and debris can damage your windows and window pane if not protected optimally. Consider investing in impact-resistant windows as they provide adequate protection against hurricanes in the long run. An important thing to understand here is that while high-impact windows are not considered hurricane proof, they have been known to withstand strong winds.
Impact-resistant windows with thicker frames can block projectiles traveling up to 150 miles per hour. It goes without saying that if you are a Florida resident who lives near the coast, installing impact-resistant windows is the best way to protect your home and loved ones during hurricane season.
Protect Your Front Door
Similar to the windows, your front door can get hammered by strong winds. Opting for impact-resistant doors will ensure that your main entry to the house is well protected against high winds. Many people often go with fiberglass for their front door, however, there are other options to consider too. If possible, you should go for hurricane grade doors and windows for good overall protection.
Protect Your Garage Door
While you are upgrading your windows and doors, don’t leave out the garage door. This is another vulnerable entry point to your house that can cause problems if not well protected. Strong winds can easily unhinge it, causing air pressure to quickly shift and potentially lift the roof off your house.
Although you can get away by installing vertical and horizontal braces to support the door, investing in a high-impact garage door is your best bet against hurricane winds. Reinforced garage doors have a thick layer of steel that can provide an optimal level of protection. Make sure to check the manufacturer’s data for wind resistance before buying and stay within the code requirements in your area.
Seal Entry Points
Before the hurricane season, it is wise to seal all entry points to your house including roof vents, skylights, and pet doors. In case of strong winds or flooding, these areas can quickly compromise the safety of your home. Some caulking can help you seal these entry points for an extra layer of protection.
Secure Your HVAC System
A hurricane can easily mount thousands of dollars worth of damage if the HVAC system is not well protected. Besides installing hurricane grade mounting gear for your HVAC system, you can take a few small steps to minimize the damage. Be sure to remove any tree branches, foliage, or clutter around the unit that can damage it. Concurrently, you should also perform any necessary maintenance before the hurricane season starts.
Hurricane risk is a part of life that you will have to face if you enjoy living near the coast. In the event of a hurricane, it is best to stay prepared so you and your loved ones can catch a good night’s sleep. If you are a resident of Stuart, Florida and are interested in hurricane proofing your home, Panorama Windows & Doors can help you. We can provide hurricane rated doors and windows built to your specifications. To get your quote, contact us today!