With the hurricane season in high gear, it is the perfect time to start thinking about how to prepare your outdoor space. Hurricanes can potentially cause significant damage to your home, yard, and outdoor oasis. Therefore, being proactive and taking the necessary precautions to protect your outdoor haven is vital. Below are twelve simple tips on how to prep your yard for a hurricane or major storm.
12 Easy Steps To Protect Your Home and Patio
1. Anchor Loose Items
High winds can turn anything into a projectile. Therefore, bringing in any patio furniture, trash cans, bikes, and loose items indoors is essential. However, gas grills and propane tanks should remain outdoors but anchored to prevent them from becoming dangerous.
2. Trim Trees
Weakened tree limbs can cause significant damage during a hurricane. To prevent this, trim trees and shrubs early using suitable tools like loppers and pole saws.
3. Shield Plants
Hurricanes can bring damaging winds and rain, destroying your plants. Therefore, cover plants, especially younger ones, with secured fabric barriers like the recommended plant cover.
4. Secure Windows
Invest in hurricane shutters or plywood at the beginning of the hurricane season to protect your windows. Plywood is an affordable alternative to hurricane shutters.
5. Clean Gutters
Maintaining clear gutters and drainage areas ensures proper stormwater flow. Clogged drains can lead to water overflowing your home’s foundation and basement, especially during storms.
6. Disconnect Satellites
Before the storm, remove satellite dishes and antennas from your rooftop to prevent them from becoming flying projectiles.
7. Prepare Patio Screens
Remove panels on each side to reduce wind pressure on your patio screens for screened enclosures.
8. Check Mailboxes
Ensure mailboxes are secure to avoid loose objects during storms.
9. Reinforce Doors
Secure external doors, including garage and double doors, against strong winds.
10. Relocate Vehicles
Park your vehicles in garages or near buildings, away from flood-prone areas and trees.
11. Create Storage Space
Organize your garage or shed in advance to accommodate patio furniture and items. If space is limited, bringing furniture inside is a viable option.
12. Manage Pool Water
Adjust pool water levels, avoiding draining, which can lead to structural damage. Pool covers can become hazardous objects; removing them before the storm arrives is better.
Be Preemptive During Storm Season
By taking the necessary precautions to prepare your yard, you can prevent damage and help protect your outdoor haven. From trimming trees to securing furniture, these tips can help ensure that you are ready for any major storm that comes your way. If you have any questions, contact Patio Pro at (919) 789-8444 for help to better protect your patio accessories and find more resistant furniture for your yard.