As we enter the heart of summer, we are also entering hurricane season. There are pros and cons to living anywhere. Those that prefer the warm temperatures and beaches, may live the good life most of the year, but must also be extra cautious of deadly hurricane storms during August through October. At times, there are hurricanes so destructive that even those that are most prepared can still have their livelihood uprooted. But for most of these tropical storms, just by simply making simple preparations, you can save your property from thousands of dollars in damage. Here is a list of preparations that the average homeowner should complete before a hurricane strikes.

Soffits. By use of sealants and screws, a homeowner can easily ensure that their soffits are secured properly. Use the sealant along the edges of the wall and be sure to reach the groove where fascia material rubs up against the facia and the wall, this is a great way to prevent the strong tropical winds from getting behind the soffit and causing major damage. 

Shingles. If you have seen footage of a tropical storm, in every video you’re bound to see shingles ripping from roofs. Fixing damages to a roof can be extremely expensive, therefore it is vital that you adhere your shingles with roofing cement. This is an effective and inexpensive method to save you money after a storm and keep your residence safe. 

Surroundings. One part of your property that you cannot forget about is the landscape of your home. Significant damage can take place from landscaping materials that are heavy and dense. The winds of a hurricane are brutal and strong and can literally lift these heavy objects and throw them through the air, leading to broken windows and siding. Anything that can be moved inside before the hurricane, should be. And if you have trees in your yard, make sure to remove dead limbs, coconuts (if you have palm trees), and anything else that could become dangerous projectiles.

Seals. Some of the weakest and most vulnerable parts of a home can be the little holes where cables, pipes, and wires enter. By caulking these areas, it will seal them and prevent heavy winds from getting behind the walls of your house, making it weak. Be certain to seal gaps or  cracks. 

If you have any further questions about how to improve your hurricane preparedness, visit the Entrusted blog. If you happen to find yourself with water damage after a tropical storm, call the Entrusted team immediately.