Preventing Storm Damage: Tips for Storm-Proofing Your Home

by EFS Restore
November 16, 2023
Uncategorized

Secure Your Property Against the Storm

Know the Risks of Storms in New York

Storms can be scary. In New York, they can hit hard and cause a lot of problems for your home. From high winds and heavy rain to lightning and hail, storms can lead to leaks, broken windows, and even fires. It’s important to know what could happen. That’s the first step to keeping your home and family safe.

At EFS Restore, we’ve seen it all when it comes to storm damage. That’s why we want to share this knowledge with you. We are more than fixing problems — we are also here to help prevent them. We’re here to share our expertise about how storms affect your home and how you can prepare for them.

Reinforce Your Home's Exterior

Your home’s exterior parts—like the roof, windows, and doors—must be strong because they face the storm first. Check your roof for loose shingles and fix them to avoid leaks. For windows, storm shutters or special glass can protect them. And for doors, especially the garage door, make sure they’re strong and can stay closed in high winds.

These parts of your home need to be ready to handle the storm. A good roof keeps water out. Shutters protect windows from breaking. A strong door keeps wind from getting inside and causing more damage. Simple fixes now can save you a lot of trouble later.

Clear Your Surroundings

Things lying around your yard can be dangerous in a storm. They can be thrown against your house and cause potential damage. Before a storm, put away patio furniture and any tools or belongings. Cut back tree branches near your house to keep them from falling on it.

Also, make sure water can flow away from your home properly. Clear your gutters and check that water moves away from your house. This keeps your foundation safe and prevents water from getting into your home.

Secure Interior Spaces

Make sure any heavy furniture can’t easily tip over inside your house. Use anchors to secure tall or heavy pieces to walls. Water can ruin electronics, resulting in more expenses if not properly protected. Use surge protectors and put electronics up high if you think they might get wet.

Keep important papers and personal things safe. Put them in containers that water and fire can’t get into. Find the safest place in your home, somewhere without windows, where you can go if the storm worsens. Thinking ahead keeps you and your belongings safe.

Have a Proactive Maintenance Routine

Taking part in regularly checking your home can stop significant problems when a storm hits. Make sure things like sump pumps, which keep your basement from flooding, are working right. Also, look at the seals around windows and doors. If they’re old or broken, water can get in. Fix them to keep your home dry. Regularly checking and replacing these can significantly increase your home’s resilience to storms.

Having a professional check on your electrical system can greatly help your property. Taking proactive steps can help avoid power problems during a storm. By doing these checks often lets you know your home is ready to handle a storm. And you’ll feel more at peace knowing you’ve done what you can to prepare.

Get an Emergency Kit and Plan Together

Being ready for a storm isn’t just about your home—it’s also about planning. Have an emergency kit with things like water, food that doesn’t go bad, flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit. If you can’t leave your home or if the power goes out, you’ll have what you need.

Make a plan with your family for what to do if you have to leave your home quickly. Practice the plan so everyone knows it. Keep a list of important numbers, like local shelters and EFS Restore. This way, you’re not just getting your home ready; you’re also preparing yourself and your family.

EFS Restore stands ready to support your efforts in safeguarding your home against storms. With our extensive expertise in restoration and recovery, we are here to help the New York community before, during, and after any storm.

Our team hopes these expanded tips offer you the knowledge and means to protect your home effectively. And remember, should the storm leave its mark, we are here to assist you in restoring it.