7 Steps: How to Protect Your Home During Severe Storms and Hurricanes!

Let’s be real, storms and hurricanes are no joke. Whether you’ve weathered a big one before or it’s your first rodeo, there’s nothing worse than realizing your home isn’t ready. One minute it’s just some rain, and the next? Wind is ripping through shingles and water is seeping into places it shouldn’t be. That’s why it’s so important to prep now and give your house a fighting chance before the storm hits. 

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Why Preparing Ahead Matters 

You might think, “My house has survived storms before, what’s the big deal?” But here’s the thing. No two storms are the same. Even the smaller ones can surprise you and leave you with a roof leak or a flooded basement. Being unprepared is the fastest way to turn a bad storm into a total disaster for your home and family. 

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1. Check Your Roof and Gutters 

Your roof takes the brunt of a storm. It’s the first line of defense. If there’s a loose shingle or a clogged gutter, you’re basically rolling out the welcome mat for water damage. 

• Look for Damage: Missing shingles, cracks, or soft spots are a red flag. If you see something off, get it fixed sooner rather than later. 

• Clean Your Gutters: Water has to go somewhere. If your gutters are clogged, that “somewhere” is your walls, ceilings, or foundation. 

A quick roof check now could save you thousands later. Trust me on this one. 

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2. Seal Windows and Doors 

Windows and doors are weak spots during storms. Water loves to find the tiniest cracks and sneak in. 

• Check for Cracks: Grab some weatherproof caulk and seal up any gaps around windows or doors. It’s quick, cheap, and totally worth it. 

• Storm Shutters: If you live in an area that gets hit often, investing in storm shutters is a no-brainer. 

• Temporary Fixes: In a pinch, plywood works too. Just make sure it’s secured tight before the winds pick up. 

Water doesn’t need an invitation. Close up those gaps before it finds a way inside. 

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3. Bring Outdoor Stuff Inside 

Anything that’s outside during a storm can become a flying missile. I’m talking patio chairs, planters, grills… even toys. 

• Move It Inside: Bring everything you can into your garage or house. 

• Tie Down the Heavy Stuff: For things that are too big to move, like sheds or heavy furniture, use straps to secure them. 

• Trim Branches: Big trees near your home? Cut back those branches. You don’t want them crashing through your windows. 

Don’t let your backyard furniture be the reason you’re filing an insurance claim. 

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3. Bring Outdoor Stuff Inside 

Anything that’s outside during a storm can become a flying missile. I’m talking patio chairs, planters, grills… even toys. 

• Move It Inside: Bring everything you can into your garage or house. 

• Tie Down the Heavy Stuff: For things that are too big to move, like sheds or heavy furniture, use straps to secure them. 

• Trim Branches: Big trees near your home? Cut back those branches. You don’t want them crashing through your windows. 

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4. Waterproof Your Basement 

Basements are notorious for flooding during heavy rain. Even if you don’t live in a flood zone, a big storm can overwhelm drains and seep through your foundation. 

• Seal Cracks: Check for cracks in your basement walls or floors. Use waterproof filler to patch them up. 

• Invest in a Sump Pump: A sump pump keeps water out of your basement and is worth every penny when the rain won’t stop. 

• Elevate Your Stuff: Store boxes and valuables on shelves, not the floor. Wet cardboard is basically useless. 

Basement floods are a nightmare. Do what you can to avoid one. 

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5. Reinforce Your Garage Door 

Did you know the garage door is one of the weakest spots in your home during a storm? If it gives way, the wind can get inside and do a lot of damage. 

• Install Braces: You can buy reinforcement kits at most hardware stores. They’re easy to install and add a ton of strength. 

• Upgrade Your Door: If storms are common in your area, consider a storm-rated garage door. It’s a smart investment. 

A strong garage door keeps your home safe and sound. 

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7. Build Your Emergency Kit 

WEvery family needs an emergency kit. You might have to shelter in place for a day or two, so stock up on what you’ll need. 

Here’s a basic checklist: 

• Bottled water (at least 3 days’ worth) 

• Non-perishable food 

• Flashlights and batteries 

• First aid supplies 

• Medications 

• Important documents (stored in something waterproof) 

• Blankets and extra clothes 

And don’t forget stuff for your pets if you’ve got them. 

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Who to Call If Your Home Takes Damage 

When the Sometimes, no matter how prepared you are, Mother Nature wins. If your roof starts leaking, your basement floods, or you’ve got water coming through the ceiling… you need help fast. 

That’s where ERX Emergency Restoration Xperts comes in. We’re here to help when you’re dealing with storm damage, water leaks, or worse. Call us at (866)-217-7903 for 24/7 emergency restoration. Whether it’s cleanup, repairs, or restoration, our team will get your home back to normal. 

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Final Thoughts 

Severe storms and hurricanes can be scary, but a little preparation goes a long way. Start now—check your roof, seal up windows, and get your emergency kit ready. Your home is your safe space. Protect it. 

And if the worst happens, don’t wait. Call ERX Emergency Restoration Xperts at (866)-217-7903. We’ll take care of the mess so you don’t have to. 

Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember—you’ve got this.