Regardless of where you live, your home is prone to weather damage over time. Whether you’re experiencing an energy-draining heatwave or a hailstorm wreaking havoc on your roof, or heavy downpours flooding your basement, you’ll want to prep your home for storms to come. For people living in particularly hazardous areas, like shoreline towns, extreme weather like hurricanes can ravage homes if not adequately protected.
Luckily, weatherproofing your home can be quick and painless, especially if you partner with reputable home storm protection companies like this. Weatherization protects your house by securing exterior walls, windows, doors, roofs while lowering energy costs by sealing openings to trap heat and cold air. Ultimately, you’ll experience fewer drafts, cutting monthly bills while staying safe during the harshest weather.
If you’re unsure which steps to take to protect your home and belongings from extreme weather conditions, read on for a guide on weather-proofing techniques.
Install Storm Windows
Although it may be tempting to leave old, worn-down windows in place to avoid costly installation fees, equipping your home with new-and-improved, storm-resistant models will save you in the long run. Leaky windows with deteriorating sealants allow heated and cooled air to escape, causing your energy bill to increase. Plus, they are prone to damage during storms, allowing water to flow in unsecured crevices.
Luckily storm-proof windows have updated caulking and additional protective glass layers to protect against shattering or heavy rain. Consider swapping out your dirty panes for crystal clear models and defend yourself from outdoor hazards and high energy bills.
Use Draft Stoppers
Draft stoppers restrict airflow from cracks at the bottom of your doors. Although replacing old frames and upgrading seals can improve unwanted air leaks, you can add extra protection during storm season as an extra layer of security against heavy rain and high winds. Plus, utilizing door draft stoppers can save you money on your monthly energy bill, keep warm air during cooler months, and cold air during hotter seasons.
Repair Cracks in Your Foundation
Regardless of how well you’ve sealed windows and doorways, if your home’s foundation has cracks or holes, it’s prone to flooding—especially during extreme weather. Floodwater can seep into your home through your foundation, traveling through the flooring and drywall, permanently damaging your house and belongings. Plus, unwanted water can cause molding—which negatively impacts breathable air—and foundation breakdown, ultimately resulting in a dangerous living situation. Call in professionals for routine check-ups to avoid scrambling during the first big storm of the season.
Utilize Sandbags
If you live in an area predisposed to flooding, it may be worth purchasing heavy sandbags to secure doorways and openings. Stack sacks approximately a foot high alongside prone exterior entryways for maximum protection. Not only will they stop flowing water from entering your home, but they’ll also act as a stabilizing barrier from debris soaring through the air during high winds.
Trim Greenery
Although you may prefer the look of overgrown trees and shrubbery, protruding or loose branches can cause damage during storm season. High winds can send unsecured foliage soaring through the air, potentially damaging your home. Additionally, large, unstable trees can crush roofs, flying branches can shatter windows, and loose plants can ravage cars on the road. Trim down trees and bushes routinely to keep unattached greenery from turning into dangerous projectiles.
Parting Thoughts
Securing your home for the upcoming storm season is essential if you want to avoid hefty repair costs and injured loved ones. Luckily, weatherproofing your home can be quick and straightforward, especially if you prepare ahead of time. Upgrade your windows, barricade your doors, and call in the professionals for routine check-ups, and you’ll be ready to take on the storm.
