As Hurricane Florence nears the Carolinas, our neighbors on the coastline are heading inland, some even to our area. Here in Lake Norman, the dangers are not as severe. While we are not under an evacuation, strong winds and heavy rains are likely. This may result in power outages, downed trees and flooding. The key to getting through this event is to stay off the roads, prepare your family and home for high winds and wait for the storm to pass before getting outdoors.
While your family is likely well on their way to making these preparations, you may still have questions about what happens after the storm passes. Will there be flooding? Will your home be damaged? If it is, what’s the quickest way to recover and get back to a more normal routine?
We don’t have definitive answers to all of these questions, but there is some important advice from the experts that’s worth following. Alair Homes Lake Norman has gathered the following tips in an effort to help.
Your Home
During the storm, experts advise that you remain indoors. Move patio furniture and yard decorations inside and make sure your pets are also safe inside. Once the storm passes, it’s time to evaluate your property and look for signs of damage. However, while doing so, it’s important to take precautions. Some damage can cause concerns that are serious enough so as to make it difficult or even dangerous to enter an area. Look for live power lines, fallen trees, indications of damage to the structure of your home or areas of flooding. If you see these things, call local officials immediately and stay away from the area where the hazard is present until they give you the all clear.
Protect Your Property
In Lake Norman, there’s a high likelihood that your home will escape the most serious of damage. However, that doesn’t mean it won’t sustain any damage. If you see a leak in the roof, place a tarp over it quickly. If you notice a broken window, nail a board on top of it until you can get it repaired. These simple steps can help to keep the damage from getting worse, saving you time and money as you’re making repairs.
Cleanup around Your Home
Cleanup chores are common after a hurricane, whether that means clearing yard debris, removing branches and limbs from your driveway or cleaning up broken glass or other household debris. Many of these chores are easy to accomplish on your own, however, make sure you have the right equipment and safety gear. Simple things like gloves and eyewear can help to alleviate risks and keep you out of the emergency room. If you don’t have the gear or feel like the job is physically more than you can handle, hire a professional.
Build Your Home to Withstand Hurricanes
Once the hurricane has passed and your home has been assessed by the insurance adjuster for any damage, a decision may be made to take on a restoration or renovation project in order to bringing it back up to its previous condition. If you do need to remodel after the hurricane, consider making improvements that might protect you should another storm reach our area. There are many innovations that can help your home to withstand winds and even flooding. While they might require an investment, the peace of mind may be worth the price.
Stay safe through hurricane Florence, and take your time as you work through any rebuilding process once it has passed. If you need help remodeling a room or your home after the storm, Alair Homes Lake Norman is here to help. Contact us for advice, information or to schedule your complimentary consultation.