Extreme weather is coming more frequently leaving coastal and inland residents with devastating results. The official hurricane season begins on June 1 and runs through November 30 for the Caribbean and Atlantic regions but this timespan isn’t set in stone.

More events are happening outside these dates; an extended season heightens the risk of damage and increases the money spent making costly repairs. It also means a greater chance of being caught unaware and unprepared.

Preparing Your Home for Hurricane Season

Hurricanes like Andrew, one of the worst hurricanes in history, leave destruction in their path. And they are becoming more unpredictable with a longer season and increased ferociousness.

Nature’s forces can’t be controlled; however, property owners can take measures to minimize the effects. Here are tips on preparing for harsh weather conditions.

Hurricane-resistant window installation

A priority in protecting a property against the fierce winds of a hurricane or tornadoes and the flying debris that accompanies these is by installing windows that can withstand these conditions.

Hurricane-resistant windows are designed with multiple layers of glass encasing a vinyl interlayer to mitigate the risk of shattering.

While these windows require a higher upfront investment compared to standard windows, they offer long-term benefits in keeping the property interior protected from damages and safeguarding those living in the home from the potential of personal injury.

Proper sealing and security

If it’s outside your budget to install new windows, you can update your existing windows by ensuring they’re adequately sealed. Sealing is typically performed with new installations; however, this seal can weaken for due to several factors such as temperature changes.

Windows should be routinely inspected particularly if you’re in an area prone to this weather. Because hurricanes create intense pressure for both the exterior and interior for harsh winds that can invade the house through cracks and gaps surrounding the windows.

With this threat comes a heightened chance of property damage including a compromised structural integrity.

Locking windows and doors

Many homeowners have the misconception that windows should be ajar when fierce winds are forecasted in an effort to balance the pressure and mitigate risks to the property. This perception is inaccurate and can actually lead to personal safety risks and increased damages to the home.

Locking the windows and doors acts as a preventive against flying objects which can shatter the glass leading to greater devastation and potential injuries for those in the home. The windows and doors should firmly shut and adequately secured before a fierce storm.

Storm shutters or panels

Storm shutters and panels serve as another form of protection to effectively shield windows from heavy rainfall, harsh winds, and the flying objects that accompany these storms. The proactive measure safeguards the windows from damage and enhances the home’s protection.

The shutters and panels can be temporarily or permanently placed. They’re positioned close to the glass and can either be closed over the window or rolled down to cover it.

There are a range of styles, designs and colors to compliment the home’s aesthetic producing an appealing impression for passersby and guests.

Plywood coverings over the windows

While storm shutters have a higher investment than some owners can accommodate with a restricted budget, a more cost-efficient approach is using plywood to cover the windows throughout the hurricane season.

This option is less convenient and doesn’t add aesthetic appeal in the same way storm shutters and panels do, when properly installed, this can be a valuable protection from the harsh weather conditions and the effects they produce.

Exterior-grade plywood is recommended with a thickness of roughly 5/8 inches for improved durability and strength. Rough edges should be sanded and a protective coating should be applied such as sealing the wood or painting for better weather resistance.

Plywood should be considered a temporary solution while working toward more robust safety such as impact-resistant windows.

Maintain trees

Properties with many trees surrounding the structure can be more vulnerable to debris and damage. Tree maintenance should be consistent to prevent them becoming a significant hazard in severe weather events.

When winds are at their worst, tree branches can whip and break becoming projectiles in the heart of the storm. With proper trimming, the trees are more resilient when these wind forces overtake the area.

In that same vein, outdoor items should be secured to prepare for powerful winds which can pick up items such as decor, grills, furnishings and propel these with incredible force. That presents a hazard not only for your house or business but vehicles and the neighboring community.

Establish a plan

A priority before there’s the threat of a storm is to develop a plan as to how your household will handle the upcoming season. Hurricanes are an intense event that can bring extensive consequences beyond your home’s windows.

The ideal plan will outline how to remain safe before, during and following the storm. That means everyone knows what to do, where to go, and understands safety measures when the circumstances become extreme.

The plan should include evacuation routes, designating meeting points in case you get separated, and establishing effective communication if you end up in different locations.

A fundamental aspect of hurricane preparedness is staying informed. In areas like Florida, hurricanes are prevalent making it necessary that residents stay on top of weather forecasts each day.

When alerts or advisories are issued, you should follow the recommendations including evacuating when the situation appears dire. Personal safety should be the focus of preparation and planning.

Final Thought

While hurricane seasons officially spans from June 1 through November 30, nature is not always compliant with that schedule. In fact, storms are more frequently happening outside this range leaving residents scrambling to prepare. Go here for tips on preparing and staying safe during a hurricane.

Instead of waiting for an alert to an upcoming event, it’s wise to prepare well before the season begins.

A good first step is protecting your windows either by replacing them with impact-resistant options or covering them with storm shutters or plywood. When the doors and windows are secure, there’s a reduced risk for damage and personal injury.