How do I stop water from entering my home during a hurricane??? A very important question to answer! Excess water in the home left unnoticed will cause damage to drywall and can lead to mold growth.
To protect your house from water intrusion during a hurricane, you can take several preventive measures. Here’s a guide to help you reduce the risk:
1. Seal Doors and Windows
- Install weather stripping: Apply it around doors and windows to reduce gaps where water can enter.
- Use sandbags or water barriers: Place sandbags or commercial water barriers (like water-filled tubes) along doorways and low entry points.
- Install door sweeps: Add a rubber or vinyl sweep at the bottom of exterior doors to minimize water entry.
- Board up windows: Use plywood to cover windows and sliding glass doors to protect them from breaking due to strong winds, which can lead to water intrusion.
2. Protect Vulnerable Openings
- Cover air vents: Use plywood or special covers to block openings like dryer vents, exhaust vents, and other wall penetrations.
- Seal cracks and gaps: Use waterproof caulking to seal any cracks in walls, window frames, and around pipes that enter the house.
- Use storm shutters: If possible, install storm shutters on windows to prevent glass from shattering and rain from entering.
3. Improve Drainage Around Your Home
- Clear gutters and downspouts: Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris to ensure proper water flow away from the house.
- Install gutter extensions: Direct water further away from your foundation with gutter extensions or splash blocks.
- Ensure proper grading: Make sure the ground around your house slopes away from the foundation to prevent water pooling near the walls.
- French drains or sump pump: Consider installing a French drain system or a sump pump in areas prone to flooding or where water tends to accumulate.
4. Prepare for Roof Leaks
- Inspect the roof: Ensure shingles are intact, and repair any damage. Reinforce weak spots and check for leaks around vents, chimneys, and skylights.
- Temporary roof covering: Use a heavy-duty tarp to cover any vulnerable areas if you suspect the roof may be compromised during the hurricane.
5. Consider External Barriers
- Flood barriers or levees: For houses in high-risk areas, consider installing temporary or permanent flood barriers or levees around the property.
- Hurricane-proof landscaping: Keep trees and shrubs trimmed to reduce the risk of falling branches causing damage that could lead to water entry.
6. During the Storm
- Monitor leaks: Have towels, plastic sheeting, or buckets ready to deal with minor leaks.
- Turn off power to vulnerable areas: In case of flooding, turn off electricity to areas prone to water intrusion to avoid electrical hazards.
After the Hurricane:
- Inspect for damage: Check for leaks or water damage as soon as it’s safe to go outside.
- Dry out the interior: If water has entered, use fans and dehumidifiers to dry affected areas as quickly as possible to prevent mold growth.
By preparing your home in advance, you can significantly reduce the risk of water damage during a hurricane!
