Storms are becoming a serious problem for homeowners throughout Australia. However, there are a few ways to protect your property and ensure your household stays safe and secure. Make sure you’re prepared for the next time the weather takes it up a notch by following these simple storm-proofing tips.

Fix any leaks and damage to your roof

Just because you can’t see any problems with your roof from ground level, it doesn’t mean that there aren’t any. It’s important to check for any leaks and damage while the weather is behaving itself. Leave it until the severe conditions hit, and it’ll be too late. Whether it be loose tiles, cracks or hard-to-spot leaks, it’s always best to call upon a reliable roofing specialist to do an inspection, as well as any necessary repairs. If your roof isn’t secure when a big storm blows in, you could end up being faced with some major structural damage and costly repair bills.

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Keep your gutters clear

Gutters are designed to help water flow away from your home and prevent flooding. If you leave them clogged up with debris and leaves, water won’t be able to be funneled away and it will eventually enter your roof. This is a very bad idea, especially as blockages can lead to flood damage restoration, rotting timber and electrical faults. So while clearing out your gutters isn’t the nicest of jobs, it’s an essential one nonetheless.

On top of this, cleaning your gutters has got to be one of the easiest DIY jobs out there, all you need to do is put on a pair of gloves, climb a ladder and scoop up any debris.  After you’re done make sure you hose down your gutters to properly flush out the down pipes.

But, if you prefer to leave it to the professionals, you can make sure your gutters are checked and cleaned by a professional gutter maintenance service or handyman at least once a year. Ideally, before the storm season is due to kick in. It’s also worth mentioning that gutters come in different profiles, so you need to ensure your gutters are designed to withstand any harsh conditions that usually come out to play in your region.

Trim branches near your home

Another simple way to safeguard your home is to remove any trees and branches that pose a danger to your property. One of the last things you want to experience during a storm is a huge branch crashing through your roof or windows. Rotted and diseased branches are particularly dangerous, as they are already weak and can come loose with a strong gust of wind. Small branches can be tackled with a hand saw or pruning tool, but if you’re lacking in branch removal experience, don’t panic. You can save yourself thousands of dollars of damage by hiring a qualified tree surgeon to safely remove branches and trees. They will also be able to get the work done as quickly as possible with the right tools and equipment.

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Draught-proof your home by fixing gaps in windows and door frames

Windows and doors are yet another weakness in a storm. If you have any cracks or damaged seams where the windows and walls meet, then wind and water can leak in. However, there are various solutions for ensuring the stormy weather is kept out of your house. First and foremost, you want to check for draughts. The best way to do this is by lighting a candle and moving it around your window and door frames. If the candle flickers, then you’ll know some repair work is needed. You can do this yourself with some caulk, or just call upon a window repairs specialist for professional help.

Once your windows are sealed, you can add some plastic coverings to the inside. Heavy shades, drapes or shutters are also great for helping to keep draughts at bay. When it comes to your doors, invest in a draught stopper or make one yourself. Simply place them along the bottom of your doors to prevent any draughts making their way into your home.

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Secure or remove loose items around your yard

You’d be surprised at how many people forget to bolt down or remove their outdoor items before the storm season arrives. From garden furniture to plastic bins and lightweight accessories, you do not want to look out the window and see your belongings flying fiercely in your direction. Not only can your loose items in the yard cause destruction to your property, but they could fly over your fence and damage your neighbour’s home too.

Put all your loose and lightweight outdoor objects into a shed, greenhouse, garage – or wherever else they can be safely stashed for the duration of the storm. Bring them into your home if you have to, just ensure they’re somewhere the wind can’t get them. And while we’re on the subject of outdoor buildings, make sure they are properly locked and bolted during storm season. If you can, uses padlocks as well to keep everything safe and more secure.

We’ve got lots of tips and tricks for improving your home all year round. Get your eyes on this!