Wind can be one of the most destructive forces in nature. Even moderate storm gusts may cause damage to your property and belongings. In anticipation of high winds associated to the Nor'easter this weekend in the Mid-Atlantic region, we've compiled a few helpful tips to safeguard your home or business from wind-related events. Here's hoping Spring behaves more like a lion cub!
Important Tips
Gravel in driveways or logs in woodpiles can cause exterior damage to vehicles, siding and windows when blown around from high winds. Cover these areas with a tarp and secure with stakes for added prevention.
Have the number of your Utility company kept in a place accessible to family members or coworkers to call at the first sight of a downed power line and/or loss of power.
Keep high-end electronics plugged into surge protectors as wind can interrupt the flow of electricity to your home or business.
A power outage disables well pumps for those on well water. This will prevent toilets from flushing without water flow. Filling a bathtub with water prior to a wind storm can assist with water transfer for flushing waste.
Exterior Prevention:
- Check roof shingles looking for properly nailed down, tightly-fitted patterns.
- Move patio furniture, children's toys, and potted planters inside a shed, garage, or other storage space to avoid puncture damage.
- Spot check the gutters and downspouts around the home making sure they are secured properly.
- Hire a professional to cut or trim loose tree branches. Limbs should be at least 20 feet from your structure.
- Siding and windows should have a sealed caulking to prevent strong drafts.
- Close exterior doors, shed doors and other detached structure doors; deadbolt if possible to keep debris from striking the main structure.
- For commercial properties, overhead and dumpster doors, outdoor lighting and signs should be secured, locked, and/or braced. Any inventory, equipment or supplies should be tied down and/or anchored.
- HVAC units should be affixed appropriately by a professional to sustain high wind impact.
- Make sure the exterior walls and roof have a tight seal to prevent updrafts capable of lifting a roof or causing separation.
- Park vehicles away from trees or large branches.
- Close and lock windows. It's best not to stand in front of windows during storms with high wind speeds.