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Preparing Your Home for Severe Thunderstorms

As we approach spring season, the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) is urging homeowners to proactively secure their properties against the looming threat of severe thunderstorms. According to recent reports, thunderstorms have become one of the costliest insured disasters, emphasizing the importance of preparedness.

The Rising Threat of Thunderstorms

The data indicates a significant increase in thunderstorm-related losses, especially in high-risk areas across the central and southern United States. Families living in these regions are increasingly vulnerable, and the economic toll is growing year by year. Rachael Gauthier, a meteorologist at IBHS, highlights a concerning trend: "We're witnessing a growing 'bullseye effect' where the population density in high-risk areas increases the likelihood of storm impacts on families."

With the number of homes in these regions on the rise, it’s vital for homeowners to take immediate action to fortify their properties. One crucial area of focus is the roof, which serves as the first line of defense against severe weather.

Strengthening Your Roof: The First Step

Research conducted by IBHS emphasizes that addressing roofing vulnerabilities should be a top priority for homeowners. The study indicates that an aging roof can be drastically affected by high winds, particularly those exceeding 60 miles per hour. If a roof fails during a storm, the potential for substantial water intrusion becomes significant, leading to extensive damage.

Gauthier elaborates, "A single inch of rainfall can lead to up to nine bathtubs of water entering a home if the roof cover fails. Therefore, examining the condition of your roof and undertaking necessary repairs is imperative."

IBHS offers a Thunderstorm Ready guide featuring scientifically backed methods for roof upgrades. This includes implementing a FORTIFIED Roof™ standard, which significantly enhances a home's resilience. Research indicates that homes with FORTIFIED upgrades were 70% less likely to file insurance claims after Hurricane Sally, proving that these enhancements can be life-saving during severe weather events.

Garage Doors: Don't Neglect This Vulnerability

Beyond roofs, garage doors deserve equal attention. They are often the most substantial openings in homes and are particularly susceptible to wind damage. High winds can cause these doors to fail, leading to increased pressure on walls and roofs, raising the risk of structural failure.

Homeowners are advised to seek wind-rated garage door options, conduct regular servicing, and consider replacing outdated doors with more resilient models.

Simple Steps for Enhanced Preparedness

IBHS encourages homeowners to take a few proactive, do-it-yourself steps to enhance their storm preparedness ahead of the spring storm season. These include:

• - Clearing Gutters and Downspouts: Ensuring proper drainage can prevent water accumulation that could lead to roof leaks.
• - Trimming Nearby Trees: This reduces the risk of branches causing damage during storms.
• - Sealing Cracks and Gaps: Preventing wind-driven rain from entering the home is crucial for protecting interiors.
• - Protecting HVAC Units: Using screens to shield outdoor units from hail can avert costly repairs.
• - Organizing Garage Space: Keeping spaces clear ensures you can park vehicles and store outdoor items safely when storms approach.

Gauthier concludes, "Taking small, proactive steps now can significantly mitigate the risk of substantial damage later on. You have power over how prepared your home is for severe weather."

To assist homeowners in this endeavor, IBHS provides downloadable checklists and guides that detail various strategies for strengthening homes against severe thunderstorms. To learn more, visit IBHS.org.

About IBHS

The IBHS is dedicated to conducting research that identifies effective methods for enhancing resilience against natural disasters, focusing on actions that strengthen homes, businesses, and communities. Visit IBHS.org for further information and resources.