The Importance of Wind Damage Protection for Your Home
While storm winds don’t cause as much monetary damage to Florida homes as water does, securing your home against wind can be one of the most important things you do. High winds and wind-blown debris can severely damage a home, and for this reason, every Florida homeowner can benefit from taking steps to protect their homes from wind damage.
In addition to safety and peace of mind, investing in methods of wind mitigation may also save you money on your homeowners insurance (see below). Wind mitigation is a term used to describe methods of decreasing risk of damage during a wind event.
Keep the wind out
In wind mitigation, your goal is to keep wind out. If wind enters through damaged areas, air pressure changes can lift your roof or blow out your walls. Rain and debris can enter your home through a broken window or hole in your roof.
Strengthen your home’s exterior, including your roof, windows, and doors. If your roof is compromised, damage can be catastrophic. In addition to keeping your roof in good condition, be sure that the connections between it and your walls are as strong as they can be. This may involve adding hurricane clips or straps. Also make sure to properly anchor any structures attached to your home, such as a deck or porch.
You may opt to protect your windows with storm shutters or install hurricane window film. (Hurricane window film won’t stop windows from breaking, but it can hold the glass together to reduce the chance of injury. Taping windows is not recommended.) If you live where wind is frequent and severe, you may want to install impact-resistant windows.
If you don’t have a hurricane-resistant garage door, consider adding bracing or hurricane panels to reinforce it.
In addition to strengthening your home, also consider your landscaping. Trim nearby trees and branches to prevent them from falling on your home during a storm. When a storm is expected, clear your yard of debris and remove or secure anything that could become a flying missile.
Wind mitigation discounts
Homeowners insurance companies in Florida offer discounts on the wind portion of your homeowners premium if your home has construction features and improvements that reduce potential wind damage. Most Florida homes built after 2002 have wind resistant features, so you may already be receiving some discounts. To qualify for this discount, you’ll need to submit a wind mitigation inspection by a qualified inspector to your insurance company. (Before you invest in any wind mitigation home improvements, contact your homeowners insurance company for instructions specific to your policy.)
If you need a quote for homeowners insurance, please contact L & M Insurance Group at 813-672-4100 or start your quote online here. L & M Insurance Group is an independent insurance agency serving Tampa, Riverview, Brandon, Valrico, and surrounding communities.
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