Steps for Disaster-Proofing Your Home

Sometimes it is the simple everyday maintenance tasks that make the biggest difference in safeguarding your home. It is imperative to be proactive on chores such as cleaning your gutters and trimming your trees. If a thunderstorm decides to strike, you may be grateful for taking proactive steps that may save your home. Some other occurrences that could bring trouble to your home include water damage, power outages, and fires. Here are some tips to prevent disasters from wiping out your home.

Clean Gutters

All too often, people overlook the importance of cleaning out their gutters. Clogged gutters invite various issues as stormwater can easily overflow and could eventually come through to your home's foundation. In addition, the buildup can prevent water from draining properly, and it can also cause it to seep into your attic and damage the walls.

Tree Trimming

In intense storms, tree limbs often break away and fall. If any large limbs are dangling over your house, there is a high risk for severe roof damage. Be sure to stay on top of trimming back limbs so they are not as heavy and won't break as easily. Tree limbs should be at least four feet above the roof because critters tend to access the attic from there.

Install a French Drain

Installing a French drain is a great way to divert stormwater away from your home. This drain has a slightly sloped trench filled with gravel and a pipe taking water away from the house. You can choose a shallow or deep drain depending on your lawn’s needs and how much water may enter your basement in a heavy storm.

Have a Generator Handy

A power outage lasting a day or more (especially when it is hot outside) is hazardous to your health. It’s also pricey to replace all the spoiled refrigerated food that didn't make it. Therefore, a generator for your home is a wise investment. Generators vary by wattage output, so you must assess how much power is needed to sustain your household before purchasing one.

Yard Upkeep

Be sure to keep the yard tidy because a well-maintained lawn is not just about curb appeal. Maintaining your yard will help deter fire. You can do this by keeping the grass short and irrigated, removing dry plants, and pruning dead branches. Hardscaping is a smart flame deterrent option for those who strive for minimal maintenance. Keep in mind that plants with stems that contain wax and oils are very flammable. There are many fire-resistant options, a couple of which are hydrangeas and succulents.

Impact-Proof Doors and Windows

Get the most out of your doors and windows by switching over to impact-resistant. These can take on high winds, so they don't enter your home and cause structural damage. You can even find impact-resistant garage doors and other features to keep threats at bay.

Check Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers do not technically expire. However, their seals often weaken over time, which reduces their internal pressure and renders the use. Check that the locking pin is intact and the pressure gauge says "full." It is also recommended to keep a fire extinguisher on each floor of the home. Sometimes preventative measures can only take you so far. Speak with your homeowners insurance agent to learn how you can stay protected when a disaster strikes.

About David G. Sayles Insurance Services

At David G. Sayles Insurance Services, we help our clients decide which of these options are best for them based on their current situation and risk factors. Contact us at 1-855-977-1842 or insureme@dsayles.mysites.io for a consultation!