Severe storms can hit at any time of year, but May through the end of November are particularly challenging months. If you live along the Atlantic coast, hurricanes are your biggest worry. Along with hurricanes come tornadoes and high winds. Storms producing high winds also occur independently of hurricanes. If you live in a storm-prone region, make sure you are covered with adequate wind insurance.
Hurricanes do more damage than any other type of storm, but weather and climate-related disasters, on the whole, are increasing. 2020 marked the sixth year in a row during which the U.S. experienced more than ten weather and climate disasters that exceeded $1 billion in damages, and it set the record at 22 such events. The wind is a significant factor contributing to the costly outcomes. There are steps you can take to prevent your home from becoming a storm wind casualty, or at least reduce the damage if the wind starts battering your house at 155 miles per hour.
How Do You Storm-Proof Your House?
Don’t wait until a storm is in the forecast to get prepared, or you may run out of time. Every year you should take the following measures to ensure your home is as safe from the wind as possible.
- Repair loose roof tiles and siding: When these parts of your house are loose, it doesn’t take much for wind to slip right under the edges and lift them off, carrying them away into the distance and leaving an opening for water to enter.
- Secure your house: There are sections of the house that are vulnerable to the wind, even if they are in excellent condition. Consider installing garage door braces, roof clips, and hurricane shutters to keep these parts attached to your house.
- Trim the trees: Dead branches make great projectiles, so you want to make sure you trim them away. If you have any branches that are touching your roof, trim those back as well. Make sure trees are secure in the ground, with adequate soil covering the roots.
- Clean out the outdoor clutter: When a storm is in the forecast, you’ll want to secure outdoor furniture and equipment that can easily fly away or, worse yet, crash into your house. To make your job easier, clear away anything you aren’t using so you’ll have less to tackle to prepare for an incoming storm.
Every homeowner should also have an emergency supply kit ready, containing first aid supplies and three days’ worth of food and water for everyone in the household (don’t forget the pets!).
Why Should You Have Wind Insurance?
No matter what steps you take to secure your house, there is always the possibility that Mother Nature will be stronger than your home. Traditional homeowners insurance does not cover wind damage. When you live in regions prone to damaging winds, you need a policy that protects your investment if you get hit by a hurricane, tornado or other severe storms.
About Brooks, Todd & McNeil
Since 1839, the independent agents at Brooks, Todd & McNeil have been pleased to offer our community the best and most affordable policies from a variety of providers. Our dedicated facilitators are ready to put their 75 years of combined experience to work on your claims. To learn more about our products and services, contact us today at (800) 448-4567.