Three Simple Steps to Stormproofing Your Home

Rachael Eslao • November 12, 2021

Three Simple Steps to Stormproofing Your Home

Storms can pose a serious threat to your home, and one of the most concerning elements is that you have no way of knowing when they'll strike, how strong they'll be, or what preparations you can take to protect yourself from Mother Nature's fury.

 

Storms are especially dangerous because they are unpredictable, but that doesn't mean you can't protect yourself and your home from them.

 

This is especially true if you live in a storm-prone area, as it gives you the justification to undertake more comprehensive renovations to your home.

 

One of these changes could be to seal any air leaks in the exterior walls (therefore keeping moisture and the wind at bay). You should also select higher-quality fixtures and fittings to ensure that your home is structurally sound and unlikely to be quickly destroyed during a storm. Here are three storm-proofing ideas to think about.

 

Better-quality fixtures and fittings should be used.

Investing in high-quality fixtures and fittings is an excellent way to ensure that your home is storm-resistant. It may appear to be a minor detail, but these fixtures contribute significantly to the livability of your home. Brackets, glue, and nails, as well as other important parts such as damp-proofing, must be long-lasting and durable.

 

Cutting corners on features like these is a waste of money because a big storm will soon put these components to the test, and if they fail, you may be stuck with a costly bill.

 

Any cracks in the outside walls or roof should be filled as soon as possible.

Storms can cause water leaks, which are one of the most dangerous risks. 

While you might imagine that big structural failures (such as a hole pierced in the roof) cause leaks, the majority of the time, tiny gaps in the outer walls or roof cause leaks.

 

To avoid this, make sure the outside walls and roof lining are thoroughly sealed, that the property is free of moisture, and that the situation is regularly checked in the event of a storm. As long as you've followed these safety precautions, you shouldn't have any issues.

 

Keep an eye out for prospective threats in your area and focus your attention on them.

While it's hard to predict how much damage a storm will inflict before it happens, you may identify potential risk areas and focus on mitigating the threat they pose.

 

If you live in a flood-prone location, for example, it's a good idea to focus on preventing water from entering your property with sandbags or specialized flood-barrier equipment. Alternatively, if severe winds are your greatest concern, consider cutting (or at the very least chopping down) any tall trees that surround your property.

 

Overall, it's preferable to think about the big picture when it comes to protecting your home against storms. It's futile to be concerned about risks you can't control, so don't obsess over the weather forecast or keep yourself awake at night worrying about it. Instead, focus on areas of immediate danger and take preventative measures to buy yourself some peace of mind.

 

Call Restoration 1 of South West Florida. Storm damage restoration assistance is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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As the busy winter months wind down, many seasonal residents leave their Southwest Florida homes behind for the summer. With the Fort Myers off-season, however, comes intense heat, high humidity, and frequent storms — conditions that make vacant homes particularly vulnerable to water damage and mold growth. When no one's around to spot early warning signs, small issues can escalate quickly. That's why preparing vacation homes for the Fort Myers off-season is crucial for preventing water and mold issues. Why Your Vacant Fort Myers Home Is a Target for Mold and Water Damage Florida's climate creates the perfect environment for mold, especially during the humid off-peak season. When a vacation home sits empty, everyday systems that usually get attention, or simply benefit from regular use, go unnoticed. In an occupied home, you'd quickly spot a small puddle under the sink, notice a musty smell, or hear a dripping sound. In a vacant home, these things can go undetected for weeks or even months. Since no one is present to catch warning signs early, use systems regularly, and maintain regular air circulation, small issues have more time to spread. High humidity accelerates mold growth, and a lack of airflow allows moisture to linger. Taking steps to prevent mold in your vacant Florida home is the best defense against costly repairs and insurance headaches. Your Pre-Departure Checklist for a Mold-Free Off-Season While winterizing Florida vacation homes is a key part of snowbird home preparation in Fort Myers, the summer off-season requires a different approach. Off-peak Florida seasonal home preparation significantly reduces the risk of moisture intrusion, system failures, and mold growth. Before locking up and heading north, conduct a thorough walk-through of your property to help safeguard it inside and out. Interior Preparations for a Healthy Home Inside the home, focus on controlling humidity, eliminating potential water risks , and reducing conditions that promote mold growth: HVAC and humidity control: Avoid turning the AC completely off. Set your thermostat to around 78-80° Fahrenheit with humidity control at 50%-55%. Have your HVAC system serviced, and make sure condensate lines are clear to prevent dripping or backups. Plumbing and water sources: Shut off the main water supply to prevent leaks from burst pipes or failed toilets. As an extra precaution, consider draining the water lines. Appliance care: Empty, turn off, unplug, clean, and prop open refrigerators. Run a cleaning cycle on dishwashers and washing machines, and leave their doors open — keeping appliances dry discourages mold and mildew. Exterior and Structural Safeguards Exterior vacation home maintenance in Fort Myers helps defend against water intrusion caused by storm damage: Roof and gutter inspection: Repair loose shingles, clean gutters, and confirm that downspouts move water away from the home. Windows and doors: Seal gaps, replace failing weather stripping, and verify that all openings are watertight. Landscaping: Trim trees and shrubs away from the house to prevent moisture buildup and minimize the risk of storm damage. Protect Your Home All Off-Season With Professional Support By taking these preventive measures, you can enjoy your time away, knowing your home will remain dry and secure throughout the off-season. If you suspect hidden moisture, notice musty odors, or want a thorough inspection before you leave, expert help can give you even more reassurance. Restoration 1 of Southwest Florida specializes in water damage restoration and mold remediation tailored to Florida's climate. Our trained technicians provide inspection, repairs, and mold removal to help protect your home year-round. Contact us today to schedule your inspection or service.
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