5 Essential Tips for Preparing Your Home for Storm Season

Living in Tucson means being familiar with the unpredictable nature of storm season. While the desert landscape might not experience the same weather extremes as other areas, monsoons, heavy rain, and strong winds can still wreak havoc on your property. At A to Z Complete Construction, we know firsthand how important it is to prepare your home before the storm hits. In this blog post, we’ll share five essential tips to help you safeguard your property during storm season and minimize potential damage.

1. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against storms. Before storm season begins, it’s crucial to have your roof inspected for any weak points or damage. Look for loose or missing shingles, cracked tiles, or any signs of wear that could lead to leaks or water infiltration during heavy rainfall. It’s also essential to clean out your gutters and downspouts, ensuring that water can flow freely away from your home.

Pro Tip:
A clogged gutter can lead to water pooling around your foundation, which can cause serious structural issues over time. Schedule a roof inspection and gutter cleaning with professionals before the storm season starts to avoid costly repairs later.

2. Secure Doors and Windows

High winds can easily damage windows and doors, so it’s important to reinforce them ahead of time. If your home has older windows, consider upgrading to impact-resistant models or installing storm shutters for added protection. Make sure all doors are securely fastened, with sturdy hinges and locks, to prevent them from being blown open during a storm.

Quick Fixes for Added Security:

• Apply weatherstripping around doors and windows to keep out drafts and rainwater.

• Use plywood to temporarily board up windows if a storm is imminent.

By securing entry points, you’ll reduce the risk of debris entering your home and causing further damage.

3. Trim Trees and Remove Debris

Overgrown trees and loose branches can be a significant hazard during a storm, especially in high winds. A falling branch can easily damage your roof, windows, or vehicles. Before storm season, it’s a good idea to have your trees professionally trimmed to remove dead or weak branches. Additionally, remove any debris from your yard, such as patio furniture, garden tools, or loose objects, which can become projectiles during a storm.

A to Z Complete Construction Tip:
If you’re unsure about the safety of a tree on your property, call in an arborist to assess its health. A tree with a compromised root system or structural integrity may need to be removed before storm season to avoid damage.

4. Check Your Home’s Foundation and Drainage

Storms often bring heavy rainfall, which can overwhelm your home’s drainage system. To prevent water from pooling around your foundation and causing long-term damage, make sure your home’s grading slopes away from the building. You should also inspect your foundation for cracks or signs of wear that could allow water to seep into your basement or crawl space.

Pro Tip:
Consider installing a sump pump in your basement or crawl space if you don’t already have one. Sump pumps help remove water that accumulates around your foundation, reducing the risk of flooding and structural damage.

5. Have an Emergency Plan and Kit Ready

No matter how prepared your home is, it’s always smart to have an emergency plan in place for your family. Make sure everyone knows what to do in the event of a storm, including where to take shelter and how to stay informed about local weather updates. You should also prepare an emergency kit that includes essential supplies like:

• Flashlights and batteries

• First-aid supplies

• Bottled water and non-perishable food

• A portable phone charger

• Important documents in waterproof containers

Having an emergency kit on hand ensures that you and your family are ready for anything, even if the storm causes power outages or other disruptions.

Final Thoughts: Preparing Your Home for Storm Season

At A to Z Complete Construction, we believe in the importance of proactive preparation. Storm season can be unpredictable, but by taking these essential steps to protect your home, you’ll minimize the risk of damage and be better prepared to weather the storm. If your property does experience damage during a storm, our experienced team is here to help with fast, reliable restoration services.

Contact A to Z Complete Construction today for a free consultation on how to storm-proof your home. And if the storm has already hit, don’t worry—our restoration experts are ready to help you get back on your feet.