Hurricane Preparation
with CertaPro Painters® of Space Coast
The Storms that Come with Tropical Living
Few things in nature will rival the sheer power and damage left behind from a strong hurricane. While our warm climate and temperatures attract the world to our backyard, those of us who live here year-round know the threat that lies in a wind and rain-based storm. In the Orlando area, we are not immune to powerful storms like hurricanes and the tornadoes they can spawn. Every year, local and national resources like the National Hurricane Center put out guides on what to do to prepare your home and family when a storm threatens the area.
Before the storm threatens and the shutters go up, there are preparations you can make that may seem trivial at the time of the storm. Learn more about hurricane prep. These items help seal your house and avoid rain and wind from getting in as the bands move through the area.
Make Proactive Hurricane Preparations
Living in the tropical south, we know that hurricane season preparations begin long before the season kicks off on June 1. To get ready, residents will begin stocking up on water, canned goods, and generator supplies. Getting your home in tip-top shape should start before your first trip to the store. Any of us who has fought with plywood has surely considered adding shutters or hurricane impact windows. In that same vein, you should be looking at your home’s seals and paint to withstand the storm as well. Here are some items that should be addressed before the beginning of the season.
Wind, Rain, and Floods
While wind is the most costly culprit of storm-related damage, flooding and water issues are right behind it. According to the National Flood Insurance Program, the average hurricane-related home flood claim was over $39,000. Hurricanes cause billions of dollars in damage every season. Take time to prepare your house for every possibility before the storm comes. Here are a few items to look for to reduce potential damage.
Window Seals
We are swift to install hurricane windows, but are the windows on your home sealed properly? Even under the shutters and plywood, improperly sealed windows are prone to cracking, damage, and water intrusion. Over time, especially in humidity and heat, caulk can get old, brittle, and fall away. The once-tight seal can be left, allowing wind and water to blow during a regular afternoon thunderstorm, so you can imagine the outcome during a hurricane.
Inspect Wall Gaps, Soffits, and More
Any allowance for water to make its way into your home is a potential for damage during a storm. Stucco can have gaps and cracks that should be addressed, especially before a storm. Some issues may need a simple caulking, while other larger gaps could require patches to be applied. Ask your painters to consider an elastomeric patch and a high-quality sealer, and paint to finish the project.
All holes naturally found in the house should be looked at for their seal. Inspect areas like HVAC systems, laundry outflows, cable and wiring holes, and more. Every hole in your home has the potential to cause wind and water to end up inside. Make sure soffits and pipes, and joints are all in good condition. Getting the most thorough seal allows you the most protection.
Gutters and Roof Sealants
Since you probably have the ladder out, climb onto the roof and up to the gutters and make sure they are intact and well secured. A flying gutter can cause an exorbitant amount of damage through 12 hours of rain bands. Clogged gutters can cause backflow to run into your home or stress your roof. Stacks, skylights, chimneys, and any other roof elements need to be sealed and secured pre-storm.
Hurricane Preparations in the Space Coast, FL Area
As hurricane season approaches along the Space Coast, it’s important to take proactive steps to protect your home. Even minor exterior issues like peeling paint, cracked siding, or rotting wood can become major problems when exposed to strong winds and heavy rain. Addressing these small maintenance tasks before a storm hits can help safeguard your home from costly damage and deterioration.
At CertaPro Painters® of Space Coast, we offer a variety of exterior services designed to strengthen and prepare your home for Florida’s stormy season. With our expertise and attention to detail, you can feel confident that your home’s exterior will be as ready as possible for the weather ahead.
Act Now
The time to act is long before a storm threatens our area. Set up a free, no-obligation estimate to speak with our estimator about hurricane-related concerns today.
And once the storm has passed, if you find yourself left with hurricane damage. Contact us. We’re here to help.
