How to prevent and protect your home from high wind damage
The first squalls of the season have brought strong winds and heavy rains in several areas of the Iberian Peninsula. These storms can trigger multiple problems such as flooding and falling trees and street furniture. They can also seriously affect homes, causing wind damage, water infiltration, broken glass and detachment of roofs and other structural elements.
Although most home insurance policies against wind damage cover damage above certain levels of intensity, it is essential to take preventive measures to anticipate events and protect your home. In this article, we offer you a complete guide to prepare your home for strong winds, minimize risks and guarantee the safety of your family and your property.
8 tips to avoid wind damage to your home
- Close doors and windows tightly to avoid drafts.
One of the first steps in protecting your home is to make sure doors and windows are tightly closed. Wind can exert considerable pressure and, if they are not tight, they can break or even be torn off. Having shutters or security windows can be a good investment.
- Lower blinds and use shutters for added security
Blinds and shutters act as physical barriers against wind. Lowering blinds and closing shutters helps protect glass and prevents wind pressure from affecting the window structure. They also help to keep the indoor temperature stable.
- Removes or secures objects outdoors
Wind can turn seemingly harmless objects into dangerous projectiles. Remove from outdoors anything that can be blown away, such as lawn furniture, flower pots and containers. If you can’t store them, secure them with sturdy anchors to prevent them from blowing away.
- Keep your roof in top condition with regular inspections
The roof is one of the most vulnerable parts of a home during high winds. Perform periodic inspections to detect possible leaks, loose shingles or clogged gutters. In addition, check cornices, balconies and other elements of the façade that could come loose and cause damage to third parties.
- Prune nearby trees to prevent possible damage
Nearby trees can pose a hazard during high wind storms. Prune fragile or long branches to prevent them from breaking off and damaging your or your neighbors’ property.
- Securely closes awnings and clotheslines
Awnings and clotheslines can act like sails in the wind, making them susceptible to breaking or blowing away. Close them properly when high winds are forecast and make sure they are securely fastened to their structure.
- If you have a removable pool, empty it or anchor it to the ground.
Demountable pools are especially vulnerable to high winds. If possible, empty and remove it during the windy season or, failing that, anchor it firmly to the ground to prevent it from shifting or damaging nearby structures.
- Gutter and downspout cleaner
They often accumulate dry leaves, small branches and other elements that, in case of extreme rainfall, can obstruct the passage of water. If the water cannot flow freely, it can stagnate and generate dampness. Regularly checking and cleaning the gutters is a fundamental practice to maintain the good condition of your home.
Protect your home with the right insurance
Although taking preventive measures significantly reduces risks, the best guarantee against unforeseen events is to have home insurance against natural disasters. There are specific policies that cover damages caused by wind, torrential rains and even earthquakes, ensuring peace of mind for homeowners.
If you need advice on the best option to protect your home, PIB Group Iberia is here to help you. Contact us and we will offer you the coverage that best suits your needs.
✆ Call us at 973 780 297 and we will take care of everything for you.
Additional resources:
- See our guide to home insurance and weather damage coverages.
- AEMET advice on weather risk prevention
Remember that prevention is key to avoid unnecessary damage to your home. By following these tips, you can protect your home from strong winds and minimize the impact of inclement weather.
And if you want more information call us or visit us at any of our offices and we will give you the best personalized advice for you in everything related to your insurance for non-payment of rents.
