No matter where you live, you are likely to see a storm or two every once in a while. Unfortunately, whether it’s a blizzard, hurricane, tornado, or basic thunderstorm, damage to your home can occur. To preserve the value of your home, make sure you take the proper steps to prevent and protect your home from storm damage.
Tips for Protecting Your Home from Storms
Now, keep in mind that there is no 100% foolproof way to eliminate storm damage. However, you can often decrease the effects of the damage by thinking ahead. If you know a storm is coming, we suggest you do the following.
1. Flood-proof your furniture and electronics by elevating them.
Enough rain typically means flooding, and flooding means damage to your carpet, furniture, and electronics. Particularly if you have a basement prone to flooding, try lifting your nice furniture onto stone blocks. You can do the same with floor-level electronics (such as stereo systems), or simply place those on a high shelf.
2. Unplug all electronics.
Whether your electronics are ground level or not, it is important to unplug them. If the power shorts during the storm, it can cause an electrical surge in items still plugged in. Unplugging everything helps prevent long-term damage.
3. Bring outside furniture in.
High winds tend to lift and carry lawn furniture and decor. If carried in the wrong direction, the furniture could hit the outside of your home or a window and cause unnecessary damage. Either bolt everything down, or move it to the garage for the time being.
4. Protect against wind damage by investing in storm shutters.
If your area is prone to heavy wind, storm shutters prevent windows from shattering, as well as protect their overall integrity.
5. Lock personal belongings in a waterproof safe.
In addition to protecting your home itself, make sure you consider items that could be lost or damaged in a heavy storm. Keep your important documents, files, heirlooms, etc. locked in a watertight safe. Additionally, we suggest you take photos of every room in your home before the storm hits to share with insurance providers later.
6. Seal doors and windows.
Sealing your doors and windows prevents excess moisture from seeping in. This is particularly important when it comes to avoiding mold growth. Mold growth often goes undetected after even minor storms and attacks the health of a home’s residents.
7. If building your home from scratch, invest in a quality roof.
Of course, if you already live in an older home, you can’t choose your roof. However, if you are in the market for a new, custom-built home, choose a roof with care. A good roof will help protect your home. They make for expensive replacements!
In the Market for a New Home?
At Next Modular, we know that choosing a home is likely one of the most important financial decisions you will make. As an experienced modular home builder, we are committed to being your guiding light throughout this process. If you need a modular home built near Goshen, Indiana, or if you have any further questions regarding resale value, call us today.
