How to Protect & Restore Your Home During Hurricane Milton?

Imagine waking up to the eerie calm before the storm, knowing that Hurricane Milton—packing winds of over 150 miles per hour—could make landfall in just a few hours. Are you prepared to protect your home from its devastating impact?

To safeguard your home during Hurricane Milton, secure windows and doors, strengthen your roof, prepare for power outages, and review your insurance policy for adequate hurricane coverage. Taking proactive measures is essential to ensure safety and minimize damage.

Hurricanes cause billions in damage annually, and with Florida in Milton's path, homeowners must act swiftly to protect their property. Fortunately, with some preparation and timely action, you can fortify your home and reduce potential losses. Let’s dive into details and explore how to protect and restore your home during Hurricane Milton.

Understanding the Threat of Hurricane Milton

Did you know the Tampa Bay area hasn't experienced a direct hit from a major hurricane since 1921? This long-standing streak of luck will be tested as Hurricane Milton barrels toward Florida, prompting widespread evacuations and emergency declarations across multiple counties. 

The aftermath of previous hurricanes has left many communities still reeling from destruction, making the need for hurricane home protection even more critical.

The Impact of Hurricane Damage on Residential Property

Hurricane damage to residential property can be catastrophic. Winds can uproot trees, shatter windows, and tear roofs off homes. Flooding can cause structural damage and promote mold growth, often in areas that are not immediately visible, leading to long-term issues if not addressed promptly. 

As residents prepare for Milton, understanding the potential impacts is essential for effective home hurricane preparedness.

Steps to Protect Your Home

With the storm closing in, taking the right steps to secure your home is crucial. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to protect your house from a hurricane:

1. Secure Your Property

• Board Up Windows: Cover windows and doors with plywood or storm shutters. This will help prevent wind from breaking glass and causing interior damage.

• Clear Debris: Remove any loose items and clear your yard that could be lifted by strong winds and turned into hazardous debris.

• Sandbags: Place sandbags around your home's foundation to help divert water away and reduce flooding risk.

2. Strengthen Your Roof

Check your roof for loose shingles or tiles and ensure they are correctly fastened. If your home is older and needs proper reinforcement, consider using roof straps or clips.

3. Prepare for Power Outages

Gather a sufficient supply of non-perishable food items, bottled water, and batteries. A good rule of thumb is to have enough supplies for at least a week.

Invest in a generator if possible, but ensure it is used safely outdoors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

4. Evacuation Plans

Know your evacuation routes and have a plan for where you will go if you need to leave your home. Keep important documents in a waterproof container, ready to grab at a moment's notice.

5. Insurance Check

Examine your homeowner's insurance policy to confirm that you have sufficient coverage for damages caused by hurricanes. Opt for flood insurance if you live in a flood-prone area.

Restoring Your Home After the Storm

Once Hurricane Milton has passed, the focus will shift from preparation to restoration. Here are the essential steps for recovery:

1. Assess Damage Carefully

Before entering your home, check for structural damage or gas leaks. If you suspect significant damage, contact professionals before proceeding.

2. Document Everything

Take photos or videos of any damage for insurance claims. This documentation can be crucial in expediting repairs and receiving compensation.

3. Start Cleanup Immediately

Remove waterlogged items and debris as soon as possible to prevent mold growth. Then, fans and dehumidifiers will be used to dry out affected areas.

4. Contact Professionals

For significant repairs, such as roof replacement or electrical work, hire licensed contractors who understand hurricane damage restoration.

Don't Wait: Prepare Now and Restore Quickly

As Hurricane Milton approaches and continues to impact Florida with significant flooding and power outages affecting over 3 million residents, there's no time to waste. By taking the necessary precautions today, you can safeguard your property and ensure a faster recovery post-storm.

Whether you board up windows or call in restoration professionals, every action you take can affect how your home withstands the hurricane.