Experts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are calling for a busy hurricane season. They’re predicting between six and nine storms, three to five of which could me major hurricanes – those with wind speeds greater than 110 miles per hour.
The best way to protect your home against the water and wind damage a hurricane delivers is to prepare well in advance of the next storm.
A few suggestions:
1) If you’re currently shopping for a home, talk with your mortgage company or insurance agent about flood insurance. You may need a flood risk analysis if your house is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area.
2) If you already own a home, have it inspected by a professional who can show you where the structure may be vulnerable. Then, talk with your insurance agent about any discounts or rebates you may be entitled to for making improvements to protect it.
3) If a hurricane is approaching, don’t waste time taping your windows. Research conducted by The Weather Channel and the firm Architectural Testing shows that tape does not strengthen the windows or offer any protection to anyone inside the home. Instead, they recommend having hurricane glass installed or using shutters to protect your windows.
4) Taking pictures or video of your home’s interior and exterior makes good sense too. Store the images at your office, in a safe deposit box at your bank, or in another secure place.
Hurricane season runs through November. You can track incoming hurricanes using online radar. And you can call Lee & Cates at (888)844-1989 for hurricane glass and board-up service.