Many U.S. states experience various natural disasters annually, from tornados and blizzards to floods and hurricanes. Unfortunately, the number of affected areas is growing, and once-safe regions can no longer assume their properties are safe from extreme weather conditions.

As your home is likely your most valuable asset, it makes sense you would want to protect it from a potential hurricane or flood. Preserve your property in violent winds, heavy rain, or thick snowfall by reading the following advice on how to storm-proof your house.

Prune Your Property

A storm can cause loose, dead or overhanging branches to fly into your property. Prevent potential damage during windy weather by removing the issues from your exterior. Contact a qualified tree surgeon to carry out the removal to protect your loved ones, your home and the affected tree.

Install High-Impact Windows

If your area is at risk of a potential storm, don’t hesitate to install high-impact windows that can withstand projectiles from up to 150 miles per hour, such as a loose tree branch. What’s more, it can prevent water from entering your home during a natural disaster, such as a flash flood. High-impact windows are a must-have if you live in a coastal city.

Apply Window Film

Another option is to apply window film onto your panes. While it isn’t impact-resistant, the film will hold broken glass together should it break. It will prevent dangerous shards from flying into your home and hurting your loved ones while protecting your property from water, snow, or debris.

Lock Away Your Vehicle

Stormy weather can pose a risk to your vehicle. Keep your car, van, or motorcycle safe from flooding, loose tree branches, or debris by parking it in a garage if possible.

Clean Your Yard

If you have a garden, it’s a wise idea to clean the outdoor area before colder temperatures arrive. For example, lock away garden furniture, barbecues, and children’s toys, dismantle trampolines and place flowerpots and expensive equipment in a secure shed at a height. It will prevent the items from hitting your property during stormy weather conditions and could protect them from flood damage.

Add Storm Shutters

Storm shutters are becoming more commonplace in properties up and down the country. In addition to improving a property’s visual appeal, they can block both water and wind during stormy weather. Plus, they can welcome natural light during a power outage. Various shutter types are available for different natural disasters, such as flooding or hurricanes, and your area’s risk should determine your choice.

Prepare for the Worst with a Flood Restoration Company

While prevention is better than cure, it never hurts to have a flood damage cleaning company number at the ready should your property experience flooding. If left untreated, the water damage can cause the development of mold and various bacteria, which can affect your health and property’s structural integrity.

Invest in a Good Insurance Policy

Home insurance policies can differ when it comes to coverage. If in doubt, review your current policy’s coverage regarding your property and its contents to identify if you are financially protected from a natural disaster, such as a flood. It will ensure you will receive the money you need to restore your home with ease and move on from the event.