Storm-Proofing Your Texas Dream Home

If you live in Texas, you already know the weather can change in the blink of an eye. From thunderstorms and tornadoes to the ever-present threat of hurricanes on the coast, a home is only as strong as its preparation. Taking proactive steps can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and extensive, costly damage. This guide will walk you through the essential strategies for protecting your home against nature’s fury, ensuring you and your belongings are safe and secure.

Summary

The First Line of Defense: The Exterior

Your home's exterior is the first thing that a storm hits, so it's a good place to start your storm-proofing efforts. Think of this as "home hardening," the process of making your house more resilient to high winds, flying debris, and water intrusion.

Roof and Gutters:

• Inspect your roof for any loose, cracked, or missing shingles. High winds can exploit these weak spots, tearing off more of the roof and exposing your home’s interior to rain.
• Consider having a professional install hurricane clips or straps. These small but mighty metal connectors reinforce the connection between your roof and the rest of your home, helping to prevent the roof from being lifted off in strong winds.
• Clear your gutters and downspouts of all debris. Clogged gutters can cause water to pool on the roof or overflow, leading to leaks, foundation damage, and even flooding.

Windows and Doors:

• Windows are one of the most vulnerable points on a home. Permanent storm shutters or high-impact glass are the most reliable options. If that's not feasible, pre-cut marine-grade plywood panels are a good temporary solution.
• Reinforce your garage door. The garage door is often a large, weak point in a home’s structure. High winds can cause it to fail, allowing a surge of pressure to build inside, which can lead to roof damage. Look into a vertical reinforcement kit to add strength.

Landscape and Yard:

• Trim trees and shrubs. Remove dead or decaying limbs that could become dangerous projectiles in high winds.
• Secure all outdoor items. Anything from patio furniture and grills to children's toys and trash cans can become a hazard during a storm. Bring them inside or secure them with heavy-duty straps.

The Paperwork Protection: Insurance

While you can’t control the weather, you can control your preparedness. Understanding your insurance policies is a crucial step in this process. A standard homeowner’s policy typically covers damage from wind, hail, and most weather events. However, there are some very important exceptions.

Flood Insurance:

Standard homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Given the potential for heavy rainfall and storm surges, a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is highly recommended, even if you don't live in a high-risk flood zone. Just a few inches of water can cause thousands of dollars in damage.

Final Thoughts

Taking the time to prepare your home now will provide peace of mind in the face of a future storm. By focusing on your home's exterior and reviewing your insurance policies, you are taking proactive steps to protect your biggest asset.

Find flood and hurricane resources at HAR.com/flood. 

FAQs

Does my standard homeowner's insurance policy cover all storm damage?

A standard policy generally covers wind and hail damage. However, it’s important to check your specific policy, as coverage can vary, especially in coastal areas where a separate windstorm policy from an organization may be needed. Most standard policies do not cover flooding.

Is it expensive to storm-proof a home?

The cost can vary widely depending on the level of protection you want. Simple tasks like trimming trees and clearing gutters are low-cost, while major upgrades like installing storm shutters or a new impact-resistant roof can be a significant investment. However, these investments often pay for themselves by preventing costly repairs and providing peace of mind.

Do I need flood insurance if I don't live in a high-risk flood zone?

Yes. While it's a common misconception that flood insurance is only for those in high-risk areas, a significant number of flood insurance claims come from homes in moderate-to-low risk zones. Standard homeowner's insurance does not cover flood damage, so a separate flood insurance policy is your only protection against this type of financial loss.