Blog Post Updated on: September 22, 2020

Storm Preparation Checklist

Many inland areas don’t have to worry about storms all that often, but for those living in a coastal area, it’s a seasonal worry. Many coastal residents already have a hurricane or intense storm preparation plan in place, but if you're a new resident don't have a plan, you could benefit from learning a few important facts so your home may sustain as little damage as possible.

For coastal dwellers, and those awaiting a storm, prepare yourself and your home to avoid potential damage with a storm preparation checklist:

Lock doors and windows – Locking doors and windows will help to secure them and ensure they stay in place. If you leave a door unlocked it has the potential to swing in, allowing the elements to also enter the home. The lock also keeps glass windows securely in place. This is particularly important for tilt-in windows. Patio Enclosures three season elite and four season sunrooms come with a dual-point locking system and night latch which provides a secure way to keep your sunroom windows and doors safely closed, eliminating the need for deadbolts.

Screen windows and doors – If possible, remove the screens from the tracks and store them in a shed, garage or basement in order to keep them unharmed. Strong winds can grab the lightweight screens from tracks and whisk them away, potentially damaging other parts of the home. In addition, large hail and flying debris can batter not only the screens, but also can damage the frames. Generally, vinyl frames will withstand impact but aluminum screens and frames may dent.

Storm shutters – For residents of hurricane-prone areas, many building codes now enforce the use of storm shutters for the protection for newly built homes. These storm shutters and door coverings are available from many companies and can be customized to blend into a home’s exterior when not in use. When the warning comes to prepare for a storm, they can be applied to the home for protection. If your home is going to experience an isolated storm, you can also make storm windows with plywood.

Other points of the home to consider :

Garage doors – Are potentially the largest and weakest opening in many homes during a storm, especially older models. Consider installing a hurricane-resistant bracing kit to reinforce the door. Retrofit kits include bracing and hardware cost about $500 for a double garage door but could end up saving you thousands.

Roofs – Homes with gabled roofs are more likely to incur damage from high winds. A gable style roof can be strengthened by installing additional braces in the trusses and at the gable ends.

Safe Rooms – For hurricane-prone areas, FEMA recommends creating a safe room in the basement or firmly anchored to a concrete foundation. The saferoom does not have to be large or costly but the walls and doors should be strong enough to withstand powerful winds and flying debris.

Contact Great Day Improvements if you would like to know more about replacement windows or sunrooms.

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