If you have lived in North Carolina long enough, you are most likely familiar with the impact that hurricane season can have on your property and the surrounding areas. North Carolina is inclined to destruction from hurricanes and other tropical storms, which is why it is critical to take the necessary precautions in protecting your loved ones and your home during Hurricane Season.
Knowing that peak of Hurricane Season is just around the corner, the waterproofing specialists of CBTofNC have prepared a few more tips to keep you and your home safe from the dangers of hurricane activity.
Plan Ahead to Stay Safe During a Hurricane
Remember that hurricanes can impact areas more than 100 miles inland. Raleigh, NC is approximately 131 miles from the coast, making it a vulnerable area for damage from harsh winds and rain.
Know Your Areas Flood Potential
First and foremost, it’s important to know what areas in your community have high potential for flooding and damage. Hilly areas are prone to flash floods with even small amounts of rain. The impact of hurricanes can be significantly higher in these areas, especially if the proper precaution isn’t taken.
DO NOT walk, swim, or drive in flood waters as it could contain dangerous debris or power lines. Only one foot of water can sweep your car away.
1. Have an Evacuation Route
2. Make plans for evacuation or sheltering based on your location and community plans- plan and become familiar with your evacuation zone and evacuation route.
3. Keep your vehicle in good working condition and have it stocked with emergency supplies and a change of clothing.
4. Keep your gas tank full in case of emergency evacuation.
Gather Supplies for Several Days
You’ll want to gather and prepare food, water, and supplies for at least 3 days but up to 2 weeks depending on the severity of the storm suggested by your local authority. The appropriate amount of water is one gallon of water per person, per day.
In addition, it is important to have an adequate amount of food with longer expiration dates to ensure that your loved ones remain nourished until your local grocery stores reopen.
Consider each person’s individuals needs such as medication or other special requirements. (Don’t forget the needs of your furry friends)!
Supplies for a Hurricane Kit
Other necessary supplies for hurricane preparedness include:
• Flashlights and batteries
• Clothes, linen, and towels
• Sanitary hygiene items
• Adequate charges on all electrical devices
• Cash
• First Aid supplies
• Copies of important documents protected by a waterproof case
• A list of important contacts
• Your location’s evacuation routes and emergency shelters/hospitals
*TIP: If the power goes out in your area, set your refrigerator and freezer to the lowest possible temperatures and limit the amount of times you open them to keep perishable foods fresher longer.*
Choose a Safe Place to Wait Out the Storm
Small, interior, windowless rooms are the safest place to remain while waiting for the storm to pass. Basements are an excellent choice if you are not in area prone to flooding.
Is Your Raleigh Home Ready for a Major Storm?
To take the proper precautions to protect your Raleigh home, We Raleigh recommends that you should begin preparing now and continue maintaining your property throughout the following months.
Eliminate Water Damage
First, de-clutter drains and gutters to allow proper drainage from heavy rains. Installing check valves in plumbing can also prevent sewage backups. While homes with basements are secure interior rooms to best protect you from heavy winds and rain, it is important to take precaution regarding your shelter.
To reduce the risk of flooding, our experts recommend installing sump pumps and alarms for water intrusion. We offer services to waterproof your basement and encapsulate your crawl space to provide further protection, keeping you and your loved ones safe.
Secure Loose Objects
Secure unsafe objects, such as propane tanks, grills, and other heavy articles that are susceptible to being picked up by fast-moving winds. Keep trees trimmed and remove loose branches to reduce the severity of loose debris.
When a storm, hurricane, or tornado is projected to hit your area or surrounding areas, removing outdoor furniture and other loose lawn objects can protect your home from being damaged by flying debris.
Improve Your Home’s Structural Integrity
Boarding your windows with exterior grade or marine plywood is a great option for protecting your home if it does not already have permanent storm shutters. Boarded windows can help prevent further damage and/or injuries from shattered glass and flying debris. For extra precaution, you may also consider strapping your roof with “Hurricane Straps,” (found at your local hardware stores) to reduce the risk of roof damage.
Add Foam Insulation to Your Home
Home’s with spray foam insulation tend to be more rigid and sturdy than homes with standard fiberglass insulation. The extra protection comes from the hardening of the foam around joists and the house framework. By eliminating voids and air pockets, the foam will completely seal the interior of your home’s walls. Additionally, you will also reap the benefits of improved energy efficiency in your house
Check Your Insurance Policy
Get in contact with your insurance company to ensure your home has the right coverage plan in place. Upgrading your policy now can save you thousands in repair costs should your home be damaged in a storm. Waiting until after the storm to change your coverage won’t help you. Make sure your coverage is sufficient beforehand.
Document Property Damage
Lastly, be sure to document any damages to your property with photos to report to your insurance company. Take precaution and use gloves when cleaning up debris from the storm to protect yourself from sharp objects.
Contact the Experienced Raleigh Waterproofing and Insulation Specialists
There is no better time than now to begin preparing your property for the threats that hurricane activity pose. To ensure that your home is protected from potential flooding, contact our waterproofing specialists here at Crawl Space & Basement Technologies. We can be reached by phone at 919-847-7072 or by completing the online contact form.