As of a few days ago, the 2020 hurricane season has officially started—and if predictions are correct, we could see an above-average number of named storms this year. If you’re not quite sure how to hurricane-proof your home, we have a few tips that you need to know before bad weather strikes the Big Easy.
How to Prepare Your Home for a Hurricane
It might seem hard to prepare for a natural disaster, but many New Orleans natives don’t think twice about clearing away debris or battering down the storm shutters. Here are a few improvements that can save your home (and protect you) during a bad storm. And if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us or the Louisiana GOHSEP with any questions.
Swap out wood doors for fiberglass
The average wood front door isn’t strong enough to withstand flying debris or intense winds. For an impact resistant alternative, consider switching to a sturdier fiberglass door. They may be more expensive, but they hold up to almost all weather conditions.
Install storm shutters
Drive through any Louisiana neighborhood during hurricane season, and you’ll probably notice that most homes are outfitted with storm shutters. These shutters are often removable and can protect your windows from damaging debris, so they’re definitely worth installing.
Invest in impact resistant glass
If you want another layer of protection, consider upgrading to impact-resistant glass in your windows or doors. Although many newer homes come with hurricane-proof windows, older properties may need a bit of an upgrade. Impact resistant glass may be a bit more expensive, but it’s worth the peace of mind.
Install a metal roof
The roof is one of the most vulnerable parts of your home during a hurricane. If you want more protection than traditional shingles, try installing a metal roof that’s designed to handle intense weather. They can last for up to 50 years and even resist winds of up to 140-mph!
Landscape accordingly
Believe it or not, regular yard maintenance can do a lot to hurricane-proof your home. Take some time to trim back your shrubs and remove and lingering yard debris that could cause damage. Now is also a great time to remove any vulnerable trees or large limbs, too.
Clean your gutters
Hurricanes can dump an unprecedented amount of rain in a short period of time. And if your gutters aren’t clean, all that water will end up in your attic or roof. Performing regular gutter maintenance can keep water flowing and out of your home.
Prevent leaks before they happen
If you have a basement, make sure your drainage system is in working order and patch up any leaks. It’s almost always worth investing in an advanced sump pump system, especially if it has an emergency backup.
Buy a generator
Power loss is inevitable during a hurricane, and it can often stay off for days at a time. However, purchasing a regular or whole-house generator is an easy way to charge devices and power essentials during a storm.
Need More Tips?
If you want to learn more about life in the Big Easy, the Nugent-Freeland Team is here to help! We have plenty of tips to help you navigate the hurricane season and the local real estate market, so just give us a call to get started.