The Atlantic storm season is a reality for Florida homeowners. While Central Florida is better protected from hurricanes than coastal areas, it’s important not to underestimate the power of Mother Nature. It is true that even “unnamed” tropical hurricanes could cause havoc.
Fortunately, there are many ways to make major damage from storms less likely. There is no way to control the weather; however, you can take care of the weaknesses that are prevalent throughout your house.
Let’s review the most important things you can do in your home to avoid storm damage:
- Think About Adding Storm Shutters to Your Windows
In the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew during 1992, numerous elements of Florida’s construction regulations were revised. Since that time, Florida storm shutters have been deemed to be among the most reliable ones in the world. They are the primary line of defense against keeping rain and wind from entering your home.
Shutters are not designed to fit over the windows’ glass directly. They should instead sit over the glass using gaps of 1 inch or greater. This gap is called the “crumple zone” which protects it from the impact of high-speed collisions.
The shutter should be in line with the wall it guards. If there’s gaps, they should not exceed 1/4 inch. All legally-compliant storm shutters that are installed in Florida are subjected to a series of “missile tests” at speeds between 50 to 130 miles/hour.
- Prepare Your Yard and Other Outdoor Areas
Yard work can be a last-minute thing when a storm is approaching, but it can help you avoid disaster. Even the smallest of objects can transform into deadly projectiles in the course of a storm. This begins with loose lawn furniture and yard debris that could, in the course of an event, break and smash your windows.
- Unplug Electronics Before the Rain Falls
Whether you’re staying or evacuating your home, ensure that you disconnect all electronic devices prior to the time that the weather changes. It’s also smart to raise your electronics to ensure that water does not manage to get into the building. Take out the surge protectors, and then store them on a tall shelf.
- Make Sure You Have Your Roof Inspected Before Hurricane Season Begins
Clean your gutters in the event of a storm to stop water from accumulating and destroying your foundation. Always have your roof checked every year, and at least a month prior to the start of hurricane season. This gives you the time to avoid leaks in the future with regular roof maintenance!
After you’ve done all you can, now is the time to contact the experts. All Star Roofing can help you repair the damage caused by storms in Florida! Call us today for storm damage repair services you can trust.
This post was written by a roofing specialist at All-Star Roofing. We offer the best Tampa roof repair in the Bay. We are a family-owned and operated roofing business, and we strive to be the best in our industry. Our family has been in the Tampa Bay area for over 60 years, and our objective has always been to provide roofing services at a fast, reliable, and competitive rate. All-Star has a tradition of quality workmanship, servicing residential and commercial properties.
