If you live in an area that experiences severe weather, you have seen firsthand what damage it can do. Yet some people’s homes remain a haven come storms, come heavy rain because they have weather-proofed the buildings. It may seem expensive to weatherproof your home, and it can be, but there are cost-effective ways you can safeguard your family and keep them safe. Here are four effective strategies you can consider if you want to safeguard your home without breaking the bank.
Tip # 1: Install Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors
One of the easiest ways severe weather can undermine your house’s safety is through the windows and doors. But not if you install impact-resistant windows and doors. Installing windows and doors with an impact-resistant rating of +105/-130 can protect your home from hurricanes with force winds of +100mph.
Impact-resistant windows and doors protect your home from a forceful wind storm and provide additional security. They make it harder for burglars to break in, protect you from outdoor noise, and improve your energy efficiency. Some home insurance providers may lower your premiums if you install impact-resistant windows and doors.
Tip #2: Seal Up Cracks and Gaps
Your home’s envelope helps regulate your indoor environment by regulating air, heat, and moisture flow. Gaps and cracks can undermine your house’s ability to withstand severe weather. Yet, you don’t have to break the bank to seal the gaps. You can use weatherstripping on the doors and windows to prevent leakages. Door sweeps are also effective in keeping drafts out.
Indoor temperature may drop if you don’t insulate. If you haven’t done it yet, insulating walls and the attic is a good strategy to prevent heat loss and high electrical bills. You should also seal air leaks in ducts and vents to prevent energy loss. These strategies are more cost-effective than conventional methods of sealing.
Tip #3: Reinforce Your Roofing
Your roof is most vulnerable during severe weather. It’s your first line of protection against weather elements. You can weatherproof the roof deck using strong metal or plywood. While asphalt shingles have only been around for a century, 75% of homes in the U.S. have them on their roofs because they’re cost-effective. In fact, they are the most popular roofing material in the country!
You can also secure the roof sheathing using fasteners to prevent wind uplift. Remember to call a roofing company to do maintenance. They may discover gaps that need sealing or any deterioration that requires attention. If your area receives storms and snowfall, consider adding a layer of ice barrier under your shingles.
Tip #4: Perform Gutter and Downspout Maintenance
Your roof is the first place that receives water during a downpour. In a national consumer survey, 65% of homeowners highlighted weather damage as the main reason behind roofing repair. Consider properly maintaining your gutter and downspouts to prevent roofing damage and flooding. A cost-effective strategy is regular cleaning and installing gutter guards.
Maintenance is much cheaper than damage repair or, worse, being at a safety risk. If you notice some leaks, act immediately to either repair or replace them. Another cost-effective strategy is installing a rain barrel or a rain harvesting system, which reduces water flow through the gutter. The advantage is you’ll have a rainwater supply after the storm has passed.
To bring it all together, safeguarding your home and loved ones is a big priority if you live in a severe weather-prone area. However, weatherproofing may seem like an expensive expenditure, especially if you are living on a budget. The above four tips will help you protect your home without breaking the bank.