Hurricane season brings strong winds, heavy rains, and the possibility of flooding, all of which can damage our homes. Doors and windows are particularly vulnerable during hurricanes and severe storms.
At Pro Key Solutions, we know prevention is key. That’s why we are sharing practical tips to help you protect your home before the storm hits.
1. Inspection and preventive maintenance
– Check frames and locks: Make sure that all frames are firmly anchored and that locks are functioning properly. A solid lock can prevent doors and windows from opening under wind pressure.
– Waterproof and seal: Seal cracks or fissures around windows and doors with putty, silicone, or expanding foam to prevent water leakage.
– Replace damaged glass: Cracked glass increases the risk of breakage. Replace any damaged glass before the beginning of hurricane season.
2. Reinforce windows with specialized materials
– Install metal shutters or blinds: These systems are designed to withstand impacts and reduce the risk of damage from debris, branches, or rocks.
– Place safety panels over windows: If you do not have specialized shutters, cover the exterior frames with plywood or polycarbonate panels before the hurricane arrives.
– Use laminated or safety glass: Consider installing impact-resistant glass, which offers additional protection against extreme winds and flying objects.
Investing in protection today can save you thousands in repairs tomorrow.
3. Securing Doors
– Install security bars or additional locks, especially on front and back doors, to prevent them from opening under wind pressure.
– Reinforce hinges with long screws (at least 4 inches) that firmly anchor into the door and the frame.
– Install hurricane-proof doors: If possible, install doors made of high-resistance, reinforced materials.
A poorly secured door can collapse under wind pressure, allowing water and debris to enter.
4. Prepare an Emergency Kit for keys and locks
You may lose your keys or a lock may be damaged in the middle of a storm. Include the following items in your kit:
– Spare keys, stored in a safe place.
– Gel lubricant, for locks highly exposed to moisture.
– The contact number of a trusted locksmith, such as Pro Key Solutions.
5. Ensure safety in the surrounding area.
– Remove loose objects outside: Garden furniture, plant pots, and decorations can become dangerous projectiles. Store or secure them before the storm.
– Keep tree branches trimmed: This will prevent them from hitting your doors or windows when blown by strong winds.
– Clean drains and gutters: Minimize the risk of flooding by ensuring that water flows properly around your home.
Prevention is better than repairing major damage.
Simple door and window reinforcements can mean the difference between a safe home and a devastated one. If you need professional guidance or installation of reinforcement systems, our team of locksmiths is available to help protect your most valuable possessions. Contact us!
