From flooding to tornadoes, Mother Nature’s wicked rages can take a toll on your home. And now, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has predicted an above-normal 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season.
Even though Chattanooga is not in a hurricane-prone area, we unfortunately have seen tornadoes and severe storms that were the product of hurricanes and tropical storms.
Additionally, natural disasters can happen at any time and anywhere, as the devastating Easter 2020 tornadoes in our area sadly reminded us.
Due to the unpredictability of the climate, it’s essential to take steps now to prepare your house and yard to withstand extreme weather.
Before you begin, review your insurance policies to ensure you’re covered for losses that might occur from a natural disaster.
An increasing number of homes and communities throughout the country are at risk of wildfires, floods and other natural disasters. As a result, many insurance companies are providing fewer options, drastically increasing premiums, or dropping out of specific markets.
With this in mind, you must talk to your insurance company about any concerns or coverage questions you might have.
The best way to keep water out of your home is to prevent it from entering it. A list of the many places water can enter your residence would surprise you. Sealing cracks in windows, entry doors and garage doors is an excellent place to start.
Local hardware stores sell a variety of sealant options depending on your needs.
High winds can easily tear through double doors, French doors and sliding patio doors that have no structural device between them. You might need to purchase and install special hardware to ensure the doors are secure where they meet.
For example, try bolts that fasten the door into the framing at the top and the bottom.
Your home’s roof can shield its interior from the outside elements. Apply sealing around your chimney or vent pipes to help prevent water from seeping into your home. A qualified contractor can check for the structural integrity of the roof system.
Also clean out clogged gutters and downspouts. If rain can’t run through the gutters and downspouts, it’ll spill over the sides, landing in areas where it can soak through to your home’s foundation, causing flooding and structural damage.
Outside, protect your home from objects that can take flight during a storm. Remove dead and dying limbs from your trees and secure lawn furniture, trash cans, flowerpots and other yard ornaments. High-speed winds could transform any of these objects into flying missiles traveling toward your house.
You should also tie down oversized items such as sheds, doghouses, playhouses, swing sets and boats.
When you and your house are prepared, you’re more likely to weather the most brutal storm with minor property damage. Taking time now to prepare your home for storm season could save you a lot of money later.
To find qualified professionals to help with storm preparations for your home, visit the Home Builders Association of Greater Chattanooga member directory at www.HBAGC.net.