Hurricane season is here. Here’s what your home needs for defense.

Hurricane season is ramping up. Are you ready for the next big storm?

Immediate fixes like clearing your yard of debris, securing windows and doors, and cleaning out your gutters can help prevent major hurricane damage to your property – and you can do them this weekend.

Meanwhile, some bigger home projects, like installing impact-rated windows or reinforcing your roof, can also be worth the investment in the long run.

Here’s what you need to know ahead of the next big storm, so you aren’t caught off-guard.

By the time the National Hurricane Center announces a hurricane watch or warning in your area, you typically only have a day or two to prepare. Luckily, there are several precautions you can take right away to make sure you’re ready when a storm hits.

Securing your windows and doors helps block debris from shattering the glass. A broken window can cause severe wind and water damage and, in serious cases, sudden pressure changes that blow your roof off.

When prepping, make sure you’re securing glass windows and doors properly, not resorting to makeshift solutions. “Taping a large ‘X’ on windows does little to protect them from wind or flying debris,” says Joanne…

Original source: https://www.usatoday.com/money/