How to Prepare Your Home for Severe Weather

Severe weather is something most homeowners face at some point, and in Lansing, Michigan, it’s no different. Winters here can bring heavy snow, while thunderstorms and high winds can cause damage during other seasons. If you’re a Lansing homeowner, you’ve probably seen your share of harsh weather, and you know how important it is to protect your home. From your roof to your windows, being prepared is key.

Let’s look at some simple yet effective ways you can prepare your home for severe weather, keeping your family safe and your property secure.

1. Secure Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are often the weakest points of your home when severe weather strikes. High winds can send debris flying, which can easily shatter glass and leave your home vulnerable. To protect against this, consider installing storm shutters or impact-resistant windows. These upgrades can add an extra layer of protection to your home, especially in areas prone to high winds or hail.

If replacing your windows isn’t an option, you can apply a protective film to reinforce the glass. This won’t prevent windows from breaking, but it will help hold the glass together if it does shatter, reducing the risk of injury.

Make sure your doors are secure as well. Check for any gaps or drafts around your doors, as these can let in wind and rain during storms.

2. Reinforce Your Roof

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against severe weather, making it one of the most critical parts to keep in good condition. Whether it’s a snowstorm, heavy rain, or strong winds, having a durable roof is essential. Homeowners in areas like Lansing, where winter storms can hit hard, know the value of a strong roof.

One of the best roofing materials for withstanding harsh weather is metal. Metal roofs are known for their durability and longevity and can handle the heavy snow and wind common in Michigan’s weather. Not only does metal provide superior protection, but it’s also energy-efficient, helping to keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer. If you’re considering upgrading your roof, investing in a high-quality, long-lasting metal roof can save you from costly repairs later.

In addition to choosing the right material, it’s important to have your roof inspected regularly. Before storm season begins, call a professional to inspect your roof for any loose shingles, weak spots, or potential leaks. Fixing small problems early can prevent much bigger issues, like water damage or structural problems, during a storm.

3. Trim Trees and Secure Outdoor Items

During storms, trees can become a major hazard if branches break off and hit your home. To avoid this, regularly trim any trees near your house, especially those with large or dead branches. It’s also a good idea to remove any trees that are too close to your home, as strong winds can uproot them, causing significant damage.

In addition to trimming trees, you should secure any outdoor items that could become dangerous projectiles in high winds. Patio furniture, grills, and garden tools can all be swept up by a strong wind, causing damage to windows, siding, or even people. Before a storm hits, move these items indoors or tie them down securely. This simple step can prevent serious damage to your home and property.

4. Install a Backup Power Source

Power outages are common during severe weather, especially in regions that experience snowstorms or strong winds. Having a backup power source, like a generator, can keep your home running even when the grid goes down. A generator can provide electricity for essential systems, like heating, cooling, and refrigeration, ensuring your family stays safe and comfortable during a storm.

Before buying a generator, calculate your home’s power needs and choose a model that can handle those requirements. It’s important to have a professional install the generator to ensure it’s connected correctly and safely to your home’s electrical system.

Make sure you also have enough fuel to run your generator during an extended outage. Test it regularly to ensure it’s in good working condition when you need it.

5. Review Your Home Insurance

Another important step in preparing for severe weather is reviewing your home insurance policy. Many homeowners assume their insurance covers all types of weather-related damage, but that’s not always the case. For example, flood damage often requires separate coverage. If you live in a flood-prone area, it’s essential to add flood insurance to your policy.

Take time to review your policy and ensure you have the coverage you need for the types of weather common in your area. If you’re unsure, talk to your insurance agent about adding additional coverage for specific risks, like hail, wind, or snow damage. It’s better to be over-prepared than to find out after the fact that you weren’t fully covered.

6. Create an Emergency Plan

Finally, every household should have an emergency plan in place for severe weather. Make sure everyone in your family knows what to do in case of an emergency, whether it’s a tornado, snowstorm, or power outage. Designate a safe room in your home where everyone can go during a storm, and stock it with essential supplies like water, non-perishable food, blankets, and a first aid kit.

You should also have a plan for how you’ll communicate if the power goes out. Keep extra phone chargers or a portable power bank on hand to stay in touch during an emergency. Having a well-thought-out emergency plan can make all the difference when severe weather hits.

Severe weather can be unpredictable, but with proper preparation, you can protect your home and family. By reinforcing your roof, securing windows and doors, trimming trees, cleaning gutters, and having a backup power source, you’ll be ready to face whatever nature throws your way. Taking the time to review your insurance and create an emergency plan will give you peace of mind, knowing you’ve done everything possible to safeguard your home.