MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) – This April, IBHS released its Rating the States study, ranking 18 states on the hurricane coast on how building codes in their area are adopted and enforced and what this may mean for property owners. In this year’s report, Alabama ranked 17th out of 18 with a score of 30 out of a possible 100 points.
Affordable Steps to Be Hurricane Ready
- Inspect the roof – The roof is the first line of defense in severe weather. Check for unsealed shingles that will be vulnerable to wind and rain and inspect flashing for leaks. When it’s time for a new roof, homeowners should request their roofing contractor follow the FORTIFIED Roof™ standard, a re-roofing method shown in lab and field studies to withstand winds up to 130 mph.
- Install a wind-rated garage door – Garage doors are one of the most vulnerable parts of the property in high winds. Wind can push a garage door inward, allowing pressure to build and push up on the roof and surrounding walls and cause a cascade of structural damage. Wind-rated garage doors are labeled to show they have been tested to withstand these pressures. Also, check the brackets that connect the door frame to the structure. Make sure they are unbroken, tightly secured and not missing any bolts or nuts.
- Check gutters, downspouts and soffits – Be sure gutters, downspouts and soffits are secure and clean out gutters to keep water from building up around the roof.
- Trim trees – Trees can fall on a roof or break windows during high winds causing extensive damage. Trim back branches that overhang structures and have a professional inspect and remove any dead, dying or diseased trees.
- Seal gaps and cracks – Check exterior walls and around windows, doors, electrical boxes, vents and pipes for gaps and cracks. Use a tube of silicone caulk to seal openings where water may enter.
- Create an inventory – Create a detailed list or video of your belongings to help with any insurance claims if damage does occur. Be sure to store it on the cloud so it can be accessed from anywhere.
- Review your insurance policy – Review your insurance policy to understand what it covers and make changes if improvements have been made to the property. Store your insurance agent’s contact information in your phone so the recovery process can be started quickly if you experience damage.
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