Living in our beautiful Sunshine State has its perks - sunny beaches, diverse wildlife, and rich culture. However, we also face the annual challenge of hurricane season. Being proactive and preparing your home for potential storms can significantly reduce the risk of damage and help keep you safe. Here's a guide to help you navigate the stormy waters of hurricane preparedness.

Conduct a Home Inspection

Regular checks around your home can help identify any vulnerabilities like loose siding, cracks, or damaged roof tiles. Although it's tough to predict how buildings will hold up under extreme conditions, maintaining your property can certainly improve your home's resilience against severe weather. Get your necessary upgrades now. It's better to anticipate than wait to see what could happen.

Consider Impact Windows

Impact windows offer an added layer of protection against high winds and flying debris, which are common in hurricanes and tropical storms. Beyond hurricane preparedness, these windows provide other benefits like noise reduction, increased security, and improved energy efficiency. They can also help you reduce your insurance premiums.

Keep an Eye on Your Drainage System

Gutters, downspouts, and drains play a critical role in managing the heavy rainfall that comes with hurricanes. Ensure they are clear of blockages to help prevent water accumulation and subsequent damage.

** Pro Bonus Tip: although they are not aesthetically pleasing, get yourself some sandbags and place them around potential water entrances around your home in case of storm surges. Water levels tend to rise and many hurricane-related damages are due to flooding, not just the rain and wind!

Secure Loose Outdoor Items

Loose objects can potentially become hazardous in high winds. Items like garden furniture, outdoor toys, and potted plants should be secured or stored away in advance of a storm. Also, trees and plants around our homes can pose a significant hazard during extreme weather conditions. By removing dead branches or overgrown limbs, you're reducing the risk of them falling on your home or car. And lastly, if you have trees close to power lines it's important to keep them trimmed so they don't interfere with electrical wires during severe weather events.

Have a Licensed Public Adjuster in Your Contact List

If your home suffers damage during a storm, a licensed public adjuster can assist you in navigating the insurance claims process. They represent the policyholder, not the insurance company, and can provide support and guidance during a challenging time. We can connect you with qualified professionals in the unfortunate case that you need them.

While we can't control the weather, taking proactive steps can help mitigate risks and provide some peace of mind during hurricane season. If you have questions about your home's preparedness or need help planning home improvements for storm resistance, feel free to reach out to us at Build Pro Construction. Our team of professionals can provide valuable insights and advice tailored to your specific situation. Remember, in the face of a storm, preparedness is the best protection. Stay safe, Florida, we're in this together!