Severe weather can strike at any time, causing significant damage to your home. Preparing your Michigan home for severe weather is crucial to protect your property and ensure your family’s safety.

How to Prepare Your Michigan Home for Severe Weather

Severe weather in Michigan can include heavy rains, thunderstorms, snowstorms, and high winds. This guide explains the following:

Understanding Michigan’s severe weather risks
Inspecting and maintaining your home
Securing outdoor areas
Creating an emergency plan
Stocking emergency supplies
What to do during severe weather
Assessing damage and seeking professional help

Here’s a closer look at each.

Understanding Michigan’s Severe Weather Risks

Michigan is prone to a variety of severe weather conditions, including thunderstorms, heavy rains, snowstorms, and high winds. Understanding these risks is the first step in preparing your home. Thunderstorms can bring heavy rain, lightning, and strong winds, while snowstorms can lead to ice accumulation and heavy snowfall. High winds can cause damage to roofs, trees, and power lines. Being aware of the specific weather threats in your area can help you take the necessary precautions.

Inspecting and Maintaining Your Home

Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to prepare your home for severe weather. Start by inspecting your roof for damaged or missing shingles and making necessary repairs. Ensure that your gutters and downspouts are clean and free of debris to allow proper water drainage. Check windows and doors for gaps or cracks and seal them to prevent water intrusion and drafts. Inspect your foundation for any cracks or signs of damage and address them promptly. Regular maintenance can help prevent minor issues from becoming major problems during severe weather.

Securing Outdoor Areas

Securing outdoor areas is crucial to prevent damage from high winds and heavy rains. Trim trees and branches that are close to your home to prevent them from falling during a storm. Secure outdoor furniture, grills, and other items that could become projectiles in high winds. If possible, store them indoors or anchor them securely to the ground. Ensure that fences and sheds are in good condition and repair any loose or damaged sections. If you have a pool, cover it to prevent debris from entering the water.

Creating an Emergency Plan

An emergency plan is essential for keeping your family safe during severe weather. Identify a safe room in your home where you can take shelter during a storm, such as a basement or an interior room without windows. Ensure that all family members know where to go and what to do in case of severe weather. Create a communication plan to keep in touch with each other during an emergency. Practice your emergency plan regularly to ensure that everyone is familiar with the procedures.

Stocking Emergency Supplies

Having emergency supplies on hand can make a significant difference during severe weather. Stock up on non-perishable food, bottled water, and essential medications. Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to stay informed about weather updates and emergency instructions. Have flashlights, extra batteries, and a first aid kit readily available. Consider having a portable generator to provide power during outages. Ensure that you have enough supplies to last at least three days.

What to Do During Severe Weather

Knowing what to do during severe weather can help keep you and your family safe. Stay indoors and avoid windows during thunderstorms and high winds. If you are outside and cannot reach shelter, avoid tall objects and metal structures. In case of a snowstorm, avoid driving unless absolutely necessary. If you must travel, keep an emergency kit in your car that includes blankets, food, water, and a shovel. Follow local weather updates and heed any evacuation orders or emergency instructions.

Assessing Damage and Seeking Professional Help

After severe weather has passed, it’s important to assess your home for any damage. Look for signs of water damage, such as stains on walls or ceilings, and check for any structural issues like cracks in the foundation or damaged roof shingles. Document any damage with photos and notes, and contact your insurance company to report the damage and start the claims process. If you’ve already sustained damage from severe weather, call Exact Recon for professional help. They can provide a thorough assessment and handle necessary repairs to restore your home.

FAQ About Preparing Your Home for Severe Weather

Check out these commonly asked questions about preparing your home for severe weather. If you don’t see your question here, please call our office and we’ll find you the answers you need.

How Often Should I Inspect My Roof for Damage?

You should inspect your roof at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall. Additionally, inspect it after any severe weather event to identify and address any damage promptly.

What Are the Best Materials for Impact-Resistant Windows?

Impact-resistant windows are typically made from laminated glass, which consists of two glass layers with a durable interlayer. These windows provide excellent protection against high winds and flying debris.

How Can I Improve Drainage Around My Home?

To improve drainage, ensure that your yard slopes away from your home’s foundation. Install downspout extensions to direct water away from the house and consider adding French drains to manage excess water.

What Should I Include in My Emergency Kit?

Your emergency kit should include non-perishable food, bottled water, essential medications, a battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, a first aid kit, blankets, and any necessary personal items. Consider adding a portable generator if possible.

How Can I Protect My Home From Flooding?

To protect your home from flooding, ensure that your gutters and downspouts are clear and functioning properly. Install a sump pump in your basement and consider using water-resistant building materials in flood-prone areas.

Do You Need a Disaster Remediation Expert in Washtenaw County or Jackson County?

If your home has already been damaged, we can help. Check out our services and call Exact Recon for your free disaster remediation quote today. We offer: