A cool, breezy day can offer a much-needed respite from spring and summer heat. But a pleasant breeze can quickly transform into an unrelenting gust. The strong, merciless winds that often accompany storms are especially wicked. They can damage your home in a matter of minutes, sending debris crashing through fragile glass windows and peeling the siding and shingles off. If you’re wondering how to protect your home against strong winds, read some tips for staving off the breath of Mother Nature.
Secure Outdoor Furniture
If you don’t secure your outdoor furniture, a violent gust of wind can turn it into a dangerous projectile. Before a storm, carry these items inside or strap them down so they don’t get picked up and sent flying. You might also want to park your vehicle somewhere safe. If debris lands on it, it can get scratched, dented, or otherwise damaged.
Trim Trees and Shrubs
The next tip on how to protect your home against strong winds is to trim or remove trees and shrubs that could topple. If branches hang over your roof or vehicle, consider trimming them before the next storm. You should also inspect the trees surrounding your property for signs of rot, infestation, or unstableness. Branches can cause a lot of damage, but a falling tree can completely obliterate your home. If you’re confident in your ability to trim branches (and even remove trees) by yourself, feel free, but hiring a knowledgeable and skilled arborist is a much safer and efficient option.
Be Prepared To Deal With the Aftermath
You can’t prevent all wind damage. After all, you can’t do much to keep your shingles safe from cracks, dents, and granule loss, so prepare to deal with the aftermath. The same goes for areas such as the siding, which, along with the roof, tends to take the brunt of storms. Luckily, your homeowner’s insurance will likely cover the cost of repairing high wind damage. All you need to do is find a reliable repair company to handle the fixing.
