Hurricane Helene served as a stark reminder of how important it is for homeowners to prepare their outdoor spaces for hurricane season. Georgia, while not directly hit by hurricanes as frequently as coastal states, can still experience strong winds, heavy rain, and flooding from these powerful storms. If you have a deck or outdoor living area, it’s essential to take preventive measures to protect it from potential hurricane damage.
In this post, we’ll cover practical steps you can take to secure your deck and outdoor space during hurricane season, using Hurricane Helene as a case study.
1. Inspect and Reinforce Your Deck’s Structure
Before hurricane season arrives, it’s critical to inspect your deck for any weaknesses that could be worsened by high winds or heavy rain. A well-built deck is the first line of defense against storm damage.
- Check for Loose Boards and Fasteners: Ensure all boards, screws, and bolts are tightly secured. Replace or repair any loose or damaged parts that could become hazardous during a storm.
- Reinforce Railings and Posts: High winds can put extra pressure on railings and support posts. Strengthen these areas to prevent structural damage.
- Seal and Protect Your Deck: Water damage is a major concern during hurricanes. Consider resealing your deck to help it withstand heavy rain and flooding.
Pro Tip: If your deck is older or hasn’t been properly maintained, consider working with a professional deck builder to ensure your structure is up to hurricane standards.
2. Clear and Secure Outdoor Furniture and Features
Outdoor furniture, grills, planters, and other loose items can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. Properly securing or storing these items is crucial.
- Store Loose Items Indoors: Before a storm, bring lightweight furniture, cushions, and other items inside to prevent them from being blown away or causing damage.
- Secure Heavy Items: For larger items like grills or fire pits that can’t easily be moved, use straps or anchors to secure them to your deck.
- Remove Umbrellas and Awnings: Retract and store any umbrellas or awnings, as they can catch wind and cause damage to both your deck and home.
3. Trim Back Overhanging Trees
During Hurricane Helene, one of the common causes of deck and home damage was falling branches and trees. By trimming back overhanging branches near your deck, you can reduce the risk of storm debris falling on your outdoor space.
- Trim Dead or Dying Branches: Remove any weak or dead branches that could easily snap during a storm.
- Prune Overgrown Trees: Keep trees pruned to limit the chance of falling branches, which can cause significant damage to your deck or home during high winds.
4. Install Hurricane Shutters or Screens for Added Protection
If your deck features large windows or doors that open into your home, consider installing hurricane shutters or protective screens. These barriers can prevent debris from shattering glass and provide added protection from wind and rain.
- Shutters: Impact-resistant hurricane shutters can safeguard large windows and doors, preventing debris from causing costly damage.
- Screens: In addition to protecting your home, hurricane-rated screens can also provide a barrier against wind and rain on your deck.
Stay Safe
Preparing your deck for hurricane season is a critical step in protecting your home and outdoor space. By reinforcing your deck, securing loose items, trimming trees, and installing protective features, you can minimize the risk of damage. Hurricane Helene showed us how important it is to be proactive before storms hit, and these steps can help ensure your deck is ready for any future storms.
If your deck is in need of reinforcement or repairs, contact us for expert guidance and services. We can help you hurricane-proof your outdoor space and keep it safe throughout the storm season.