When a hurricane hits, your home serves as your primary defense against the storm. But even the sturdiest homes have vulnerable points. Knowing which areas need reinforcement can make all the difference in keeping your loved ones and property safe.

Here are 4 areas in your home that are the most at risk during a hurricane and how you can strengthen them:

1. Roof: Protecting the Top of Your Home

The roof is the most exposed part of your home during a hurricane, making it highly vulnerable to strong winds and flying debris. After a storm, the roof is the area most likely to require repairs due to torn shingles, water damage, or, in severe cases, the roof being lifted off entirely. 

How to Safety-Proof:

• Install hurricane-resistant shingles: These are specifically designed to withstand extreme winds and reduce the risk of leaks or structural issues caused by flying debris, providing extra stability against wind uplift.

• Reinforce your roof structure: Roof tie-downs, also known as hurricane straps, can help secure the roof to the walls.

• Regular maintenance: Inspect and replace any damaged or missing shingles, and ensure your roof is in good condition before hurricane season starts.

2. Doors: Secure the Gateway to Your Home

Unsecured doors are another weak point during hurricanes. If wind and rain force their way through your doors, internal pressure can build up, leading to severe structural damage.

How to Safety-Proof:

• Reinforce doors: Ensure that doors are tightly sealed and consider upgrading to stronger, hurricane-rated doors.

• Install heavy-duty door hardware: Reinforced hinges and deadbolt locks can make a significant difference in keeping your doors secure during high winds.

• Add a door brace: A door brace or hurricane bar provides extra support, helping your doors resist wind pressure.

• Weatherproof door seals: Check that weatherstripping is properly installed to prevent water and wind from seeping around the edges.

3. Windows: Reinforce Your Home’s Weakest Link

Windows are one of the most vulnerable parts of your home during a hurricane. Broken windows not only allow wind and rain inside but can compromise the structural integrity.

How to Safety-Proof:

• Install impact-resistant windows: These specialized windows are made with reinforced glass or multiple layers, reducing the risk of breakage and helping maintain your home’s protective barrier.

• Add storm shutters: Storm shutters provide an extra layer of defense, shielding your windows from flying debris and severe winds. They can be quickly deployed before a storm hits.

4. Garage Doors: Don’t Overlook the Largest Opening

Garage doors are often overlooked but are among the “largest and weakest openings” in your home during a hurricane. Due to their size and typically weaker construction, if a garage door fails, it creates an open path for wind to enter your home, potentially leading to roof damage and even structural collapse.

How to Safety-Proof:

• Reinforce your garage door: Bracing kits can significantly enhance the strength of your garage door, helping it withstand high winds. They’re also more cost-effective than replacing the entire door.

• Upgrade to a hurricane-rated garage door:  If your garage door isn’t built to withstand hurricane-force winds, consider upgrading. This can prevent extensive damage and help protect your home’s structure.

Not sure where to start? Hire an Inspector.

Need help assessing your home’s hurricane preparedness? Hiring a licensed inspector is a good place to begin.

A professional can help identify weak points and offer expert recommendations to strengthen or hurricane proof your home’s resilience against storms, giving you added safety and peace of mind.

What to keep in mind when hiring an inspector:

• Check credentials: Ensure the inspector is licensed and certified, particularly in hurricane or wind mitigation inspections.

• Seek recommendations: Ask local homeowners, contractors, or your insurance agent for referrals.

• Verify experience: Look for inspectors with a proven track record of assessing homes for storm preparedness.

While you’re at it, prepare for a power outage.

As you prepare your home for extreme wind and rain, don't forget to consider your readiness for potential power outages, which often accompany severe weather. A reliable battery storage system can keep essential appliances running and help you stay connected during extended outages. For more tips on how to be ready for power disruptions, check out our guide on power outage preparedness.

If you’re looking for other ways to stay prepared, check out FEMA’s tips to help you combat hurricane season. 

Take Action to Protect Your Home

Hurricane season is unpredictable, but your home’s safety doesn’t have to be. Start fortifying the vulnerable points in your home today to ensure that your family and property are protected when the next storm hits. 

For more expert tips and resources, check out FEMA’s hurricane preparedness guide.