3 Home Updates You Need to Make Before Extreme Weather Hits

We are seeing a clear trend: extreme weather events are happening more frequently across the U.S. these days. 

There are more powerful storms, heavy snow, and even wildfires. These events pose a growing threat to homes as well as family members. 

Just last month, strong winds lifted the home of a 76-year-old woman in Largo's Ranchero Village community on Florida's west coast. 

Something similar, though much more intense, happened in Central Virginia toward the end of June this year. Severe weather knocked out power and damaged the homes of thousands of people. 

Beyond physical damage, these disasters can trigger serious health risks, from mold-related illnesses to long-term stress. 

You’re not powerless, however. A few smart home updates can go a long way in keeping your family safe and your property protected.

In this article, we’ll walk you through some essential home updates to tackle before extreme weather strikes. That way, you can be ready, come rain, wind, or fire.

1. Use House Wraps and Flashings

The roof sure is the main protector. But your home has a whole system of architectural features designed to keep water out. House wraps and flashings are two important ones. 

House wraps are special barriers installed under siding. They effectively stop air and moisture from entering walls. Flashings are thin pieces of material, often made of metal or self-adhesive tape. They are strategically installed around vulnerable areas like windows, doors, and roof intersections. 

When preparing your home for a hurricane or severe storm, check walls for visible damage, water stains, or signs of moisture intrusion like mold. It’s time to upgrade house wraps and flashings if you notice any of these signs. 

For house wraps, quality synthetic options are great. They cover your entire exterior wall system, with seams properly taped and sealed. As for flashings, aluminum or galvanized steel flashings work well. 

Installation has to be spot-on. If house wraps and flashings are installed improperly, they can accidentally funnel and trap water inside your walls, which can lead to major water damage.

2. Upgrade to a Durable Deck

Adding a deck enhances curb appeal, expands the living space, and boosts the value of a property. But it also takes a beating during extreme weather. 

If your deck is not built to withstand high winds, heavy snow, or relentless rain, it could suffer serious damage, or worse, become a safety hazard. Loose boards can turn into flying debris, and weak framing may buckle under pressure.

To make your deck weather-resistant, material choice matters. While traditional woods like cedar and redwood are beautiful, they are prone to warping, swelling, or rotting when exposed to moisture over time. 

Composite decking with proper sealing offers much better durability. According to Preferred Construction LLC, composite decking is an excellent low-maintenance choice that comes in a rainbow of colors. That way, you can easily pick a style that beautifully complements your home's exterior.

If you're in Tennessee, especially places like Knoxville, where severe weather is no anomaly, it’s smart to build with local weather in mind. 

Severe storms already made headlines in Knoxville by late May and June. If you live in this storm-prone area, it’s wise to consult a trusted Knoxville deck builder. 

They can recommend materials and construction methods that stand up to harsh weather while still looking great. They will make sure your deck is properly anchored, ventilated, and built with long-term durability in mind.

3. Reinforce Garage Doors

Most often, the garage door is the largest opening in the home. This makes it a major weak point during high winds, hurricanes, or tornadoes. 

If it fails, strong winds can rush into a home and create internal pressure. This pressurization damage can then blow off a roof or collapse walls. Glass panels are especially vulnerable unless they are impact-resistant.   

A highly effective solution, according to U.S. News & World Report, is to add garage braces to your existing door. These kits consist of strong, vertical posts that you install before a storm hits and remove afterward. They transfer the intense wind pressure from the flexible door panels to your garage’s solid floor and header. 

Another important step is upgrading the door's hardware. Replacing flimsy rollers with heavy-duty ones and using double-wide hinges can significantly strengthen the door's integrity.

But if you live in an area prone to severe weather, upgrading to an impact-rated garage door would be wise. These doors feature reinforced panels, stronger track systems, and improved hardware that can handle significantly higher wind loads.

Ready for What Comes Next?

Being ready for extreme weather is a smart move, and these updates can help protect from the threats posed by unpredictable weather patterns. More importantly, it keeps your family safe and comfortable, which brings invaluable peace of mind.

The good thing? These updates don’t require a massive overhaul or renovation; just some smart planning and regular maintenance. Tackle them bit by bit, and you’ll rest easier knowing your home is ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.