While it’s important to prepare your home for storm season when wild winds and heavy rain can cause havoc, regular maintenance will ensure your home is well prepared for bad weather conditions in and out of storm season. A few simple precautions will go a long way to minimising damage to your home during severe weather.
Clean Gutters
Gutters need to be regularly cleaned and cleared of all leaf litter. This will prevent them from overflowing during heavy downpours. Blocked gutters can block the flow of water and lead to flooding in your home. You will need to ensure you use safe practices when completing this task including using a safe ladder. Alternatively, you can use the services of a professional. Gutter protection can also be installed to help minimise the build-up of leaf litter and prevent the need for potentially dangerous gutter cleaning. Companies like Roof Masters offer an excellent gutter protection product which is guaranteed for ten years, providing a long-term solution for gutter maintenance.
Trim Tree Branches
Tree branches should be regularly assessed and trimmed where necessary. Flying branches are one of the biggest culprits for house damage during storms. Make sure tree branches are kept well clear of your home and also power lines.
Ensure Roof is Well Secured
Most homeowners are unaware of the condition of their roof and the bracing that holds it in place. Getting your roof inspected and repaired if necessary can prevent expensive damage from flooding and high winds.
Clear the Yard
You should clear your yard of loose objects which can become projectiles during high winds. If you don’t have adequate indoor storage to house all items, you should tie them down securely.
Have a Plan
You need to create an emergency plan for you and your family to adhere to in the event of severe weather. It is too late to create a plan once the storm has hit, you should establish the safest area in the house in the event of high winds and prepare this space so you can sit the storm out if necessary. It is also important to plan evacuation routes. And don’t forget to make plans for the safety of your pets.
Prepare an Emergency Kit
Once you have taken the necessary steps to protect your home from storm damage, the next thing to do is create a home emergency kit. This should contain the essential things you would need to survive for at least three days in case you are cut off by flooding or in the event electricity and other services are disrupted. Your kit should contain adequate non-perishable food and water, a battery operated radio, a torch, spare batteries, a first aid kit, medications and any important documents like insurance papers. If you live in a flood prone area you should also consider a camping stove, bedding, toiletries and clothing.
Being well prepared is the best way to minimise the impact of storm season. Be diligent and don’t put off your storm preparations. As the old adage says: it is better to be safe than sorry.
Disclosure: This is a sponsored guest post.