Extreme weather and natural disasters can have a huge impact on your home. The US alone spent $145 billion dollars on home repair, due to damage caused by extreme weather and natural disasters. This figure is set to rise over time with climate change. Here is how you can protect your home from bad weather and reduce the risk of needing to repair your property.

Install Storm Shutters

Storm shutters protect your windows from extreme wind or water. If you live near a waterfront, or in a location where hurricanes are common, then exterior storm shutters can help protect your windows from damage. Storm shutters can be catered to have vertical or horizontal shutters depending on the wind direction. They protect your windows from adverse weather by providing an additional barrier between debris and your windows. The slats also allow for light to be let in without the glass being exposed.

Prepare Your Roof Ahead Of Bad Weather

During harsh winds, loose shingles can fly off a roof. If they are already missing, they may also leave your roof exposed to harsh rains that may cause long term damage. Wind can also get under the remaining shingles through the gap and lift up a large number of roof tiles. Inspect your roof before an anticipated storm to make sure that there are no loose roof tiles. You should also check that all windows and doors are properly closed - as air pressure can impact the stability of your roof during extreme weather.

Keep Your Gutters Clear

Your gutters play an essential role in diverting water away from your home. If they are blocked or loosely attached to the roof, there is a chance that extensive rainfall will not be directed away from your property properly. If water does not reach drains, it can pool near the edge of your house, flood basements and even damage foundations. Clean your gutters regularly and ensure they are properly secured on a regular basis to stop your home from being exposed to water damage.

Trim Hedge And Tree Branches

If you live in an area that is prone to storms, trimming nearby trees and branches can stop loose limbs from causing damage to your home. In particular, trim trees so they are not over your roof. Tree limbs falling on a roof can cause thousands of pounds in damage. You can’t stop winds from blowing tree branches from across the street in a storm, but you can reduce the chances nearby branches will impact your home.

Clear Projectiles & Bring Backup

Do you have loose items outside your home? Ensure that lawn furniture, sheds and any awnings are secure. Anything that can be blown away is a potential hazard during adverse weather. You should also be prepared with a backup generator in case you lose electricity during a storm. 

Taking these steps is a vital part of staying safe during bad weather. We hope you stay safe during storms, and that these tips help reduce the risk of any home repair required to your property.