Get Storm-Ready: Simple Tricks to Hurricane-Proof Your Home

Impact-Resistant Shingles

Swapping out those basic asphalt shingles for impact-resistant ones can seriously cut your chances of wind damage. If you’re looking at a roof repair or replacement anyway, going this route will only cost you a tiny bit more than regular shingles. But it sure beats having to completely replace the roof if storms rip it to shreds!

Roof Bracing

Without the right attachments, hurricane-force winds can literally lift your roof right off the walls! Having a contractor add reinforced clips, ties, and anchors creates critical structural connections to keep the roof locked down tight.

Impact-Resistant Windows

Special laminated glass in impact-resistant windows can take hits from storm debris without shattering to bits. You can buy new windows fully equipped, or just replace the panes in your existing ones. Pricey but worth it for the windows facing the worst winds!

Reinforced Entryways

Big winds can blow right through hollow exterior doors. Swap in solid core doors anchored firmly to the wall with hinge anchors. Top it off by installing impact-rated storm doors for extra protection.

French Drains

French drains are a simple but effective way to channel water away from your foundation before it pools up and seeps inside. Install them around the perimeter of your place to prevent flooding and erosion.

Sump Pumps

A battery backup sump pump will kick in to keep your basement dry even if the power fails. It’s cheap insurance against water damage to your belongings and foundation woes.

For more information on sump pumps and help identifying if one is necessary for your home, check out our full article on sump pumps. 

Elevate on Pilings

For homes in flood zones, getting lifted up on pilings reduces the chance of water damage and brings you up to the latest code requirements. Open foundations also help wind pass through. While this is a very expensive and time consuming project, it is one of the most definitive ways to ensure your home is not at risk to flood damage. For higher end properties in flood zones or across the Connecticut coastline, this may be a worthwhile consideration.

Waterproof Basement Walls

Sealing up basement walls with waterproofing compounds creates a barrier to keep out leaks that could undermine the foundation over time.

Generators

There are a few options available for home generators. Standby generators generally kick in automatically when power is lost, but often require professional installation and are more expensive. Portable generators are more common, can be installed by most homeowners without assistance, and are a more cost effective option.

Solar and Batteries

Solar panels linked to home batteries let you tap into renewable energy when the grid’s down. Tesla’s Powerwall is an increasingly popular option in higher-end homes. There are many options for local solar companies, each with their own unique pros and cons, so we recommend heavily researching your local area’s solar companies before making any decisions.

Strategic Tree Removal

Take out dead trees and thin dense stands to improve wind resistance. Focus on trees that could hit your home or block drainage.

Wind-Resistant Fencing

Swap deteriorating wood fences for wind-tough materials like metal, brick, or concrete. Install them properly so they stand up to hurricane gusts.