Securing Your Beach House: Tips for Protecting Against Hurricane Damage
Protecting Against Hurricane Damage on the North Carolina Coast.
Owning a beach house in a beautiful coastal area comes with its unique set of responsibilities, especially when it comes to safeguarding your property against hurricanes. Proper preparation and maintenance can significantly reduce the risk of damage during a storm. Here are some essential tips for securing your beach house against hurricane damage.
Table of Contents
Install Hurricane Shutters
Reinforce Doors and Windows
Secure the Roof
Clear the Surrounding Area
Elevate Essential Systems
Check Insurance Coverage
Develop an Emergency Plan
Assemble a Basic Disaster Supplies Kit
Why Choose Sara Spaugh for Real Estate Advice
Conclusion
1. Install Hurricane Shutters
Even small beach houses need Hurricane shutters.
Protection for Windows: Hurricane shutters are a must-have for protecting your windows from flying debris during a storm. They are available in various styles, including roll-down, accordion, and panel shutters.
Easy Installation: Choose shutters that are easy to install and remove, ensuring quick deployment when a storm is approaching.
2. Reinforce Doors and Windows
Impact-Resistant Glass: Consider upgrading to impact-resistant glass for your doors and windows. This can prevent shattering and reduce the risk of wind and water entering your home.
Sturdy Door Frames: Reinforce door frames with heavy-duty hinges and locks to withstand high winds.
3. Secure the Roof
Inspect Regularly: Regularly inspect your roof for loose or damaged shingles and repair them promptly. Please contact me if you need your roof inspected before or after a hurricane and I will get a drone pilot to inspect your home at not cost to you!
Install Hurricane Straps: Hurricane straps help anchor your roof to the walls of your home, providing additional stability during high winds.
4. Clear the Surrounding Area
Remove Debris: Regularly clear your yard of debris, including dead branches and loose items that can become projectiles during a storm.
Trim Trees: Keep trees and shrubs trimmed to reduce the risk of branches falling on your home.
5. Elevate Essential Systems
Make it stand out
DYI appliance stands are simple but very EFFECTIVE!
Raise Utilities: Elevate essential systems such as HVAC units, water heaters, and electrical panels above the base flood elevation to protect them from flooding.
Consider Flood Vents: Install flood vents in your foundation to allow water to flow through and reduce pressure on your home’s structure.
6. Check Insurance Coverage
Review Your Policy: Ensure your homeowner’s insurance policy includes coverage for hurricane damage, and consider adding flood insurance if it’s not already included. REMEMBER FLOOD ZONE MAPS CHANGE! When you own a home at the coast but do not own property in a flood zone, still consider flood insurance the cost is not as expensive as you may think.
Document Valuables: Take inventory of your belongings and keep a record, including photographs, for insurance purposes.
7. Develop an Emergency Plan
Ocean Isle Beach evacuation route show.
Create a Plan: Develop a comprehensive emergency plan for your family, including evacuation routes and a communication strategy.
Prepare an Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with essentials such as water, food, medications, and important documents. See below for a comprehensive list.
8. Assemble a Basic Disaster Supplies Kit
Container and Storage: Store items in airtight plastic bags and place your disaster supplies kit in easy-to-carry containers, such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.
Essential Items: A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:
Water: One gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation.
Food: At least a several-day supply of non-perishable food.
Battery-Powered Radio: Include a hand-crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert.
Flashlight and Extra Batteries: Essential for power outages.
First Aid Kit: To address injuries during the storm.
Whistle: To signal for help if needed.
Dust Mask: Helps filter contaminated air.
Plastic Sheeting, Scissors, and Duct Tape: For sheltering in place.
Moist Towelettes, Garbage Bags, and Plastic Ties: For personal sanitation.
Wrench or Pliers: To turn off utilities.
Manual Can Opener: For non-perishable food.
Local Maps: In case GPS services are unavailable.
Cell Phone Chargers and Backup Battery: To stay connected during the storm.
9. Why Choose Sara Spaugh for Real Estate Advice
REALTOR® Sara Spaugh
Sara is a seasoned real estate agent with extensive knowledge of the NC beaches and personally has had to prepare for hurricanes over the years here in Ocean Isle Beach.
Email: Sara@ncbeachrealestate.com
Phone: Text or call me at 740-816-1262
Local Expertise: Sara understands the unique challenges and opportunities of owning a beach house.
Personalized Service: Sara offers tailored advice to meet your specific needs and preferences.
Proven Track Record: With years of experience, Sara has built a reputation for excellence in the real estate industry.
Conclusion
Securing your beach house against hurricane damage is crucial for protecting your investment and ensuring your family's safety. By following these tips and working with a knowledgeable real estate agent like Sara Spaugh, you can enjoy peace of mind and make the most of your coastal property.
Contact Information:
Email: Sara@ncbeachrealestate.com
Phone: Text or call me at 740-816-1262
