How to Prepare Your Home for Storm Season

As Spring turns into Summer, we see drastic changes in weather on the daily. Summer storms can bring heavy rain and heavy winds— which cause the most damage to homes year-round. The weather is unpredictable, but you can be prepared and protect your home from any damage that may come from weather changes.

Reinforce Your Home from Top to Bottom 

To protect your home from damage during a storm, your first line of defense is to reinforce the structure. From shingles to your windows, you can take steps to secure your home before the storm hits. 

First Line of Defence: Secure Your Roof

Your roof is often the first to be targeted by high winds, the good news is that you can often handle some roof fixes yourself before a storm, without needing a contractor. With a thorough inspection, you can be prepared before the storm hits.

• Repair loose shingles: Before storm season, secure any damaged or loose shingles and consider impact-resistant shingles the next time you replace your roof. 

• Upgrade your underlayment: This layer sits under your shingles and helps protect your home from water and damage if strong winds tear shingles off.

• Check gutters and outside vents: Clear your gutters and vents to avoid water backup and ensure they are secure to your home.

•  Installing hurricane straps or special self-tapping screws: This will make sure roof trusses are securely fastened to wall below

Keep Wind Out by Securing your Windows and Doors

If your windows and doors aren’t storm-ready, they can be vulnerable to strong winds and severe weather. To help protect your home, take a few steps to secure them before a storm hits:

• Seal Gaps: Keep out the rain and wind by making sure windows and doors are gap-free. 

• Impact Resistant Glass: If you're looking for an upgrade to be worry-free. Impact Resistant glass is a great option to know that your windows and glass doors are protected from strong winds. Adding shutters is also a great addition for an extra line of defense. 
  
  
• Reinforce Entry and Garage Doors: Add a heavy-duty deadbolt, slide bolts at the top and bottom, and longer hinge screws to improve stability. You can also upgrade to pressure- and impact-rated doors.

Clear Your Yard: Flying Debris Can Cause More Damage Than You Think

Storm damage isn’t always caused by rain or wind alone — loose outdoor items can also become dangerous flying debris. From patio furniture and trampolines to garbage bins and lightweight chairs, securing your yard before a storm can help protect your home from unnecessary damage:

• Secure outdoor furniture or bring indoors: Lawn chairs, umbrellas, tables and other small items are easily lifted with strong winds. 
  
  
• Anchor heavy items: Make sure items like your barbeque or trampoline are properly fastened to the ground.
  
  
• Trim trees and shrubs: Check for loose, damaged, or already broken branches that could come down in high winds and damage your roof or windows. 

Take Action Before the Storm

A few simple steps can help reduce storm-related risks. From strengthening your roof to securing your doors and outdoor spaces, small preparations can make a meaningful difference.

At CAA Niagara, we’re here to help our Members protect what matters most. Whether it’s expert advice, insurance options, or emergency preparedness tips, we’ve got the resources to help you weather the storm.