Sponsored By GAF – Risk mitigation

It is a phrase homeowners hear after major storms like Hurricane Matthew. They are advised that their homes are vulnerable to high winds and are encouraged to take precautions to keep their properties and themselves safe from further storms.

These warnings should not be taken as alarmist.

All those New Yorkers who believed Hurricane Sandy couldn’t wreak havoc on their city were probably right.

What can homeowners do to take control of Mother Nature and increase their chances of winning? Continue reading.

* Clean your gutters. Angie’s List warns that even in perfect weather you can still see a potential problem. “nightmare”If your roof is clogged up with leaves, sticks, and other debris, it can cause a roof leak. If you factor in a strong hurricane, however, then the very component of your roofing system that controls water flow — protecting your roof and walls, foundation and landscape from flooding — could suddenly become just as useful as a virus infected laptop.

“If you let gutter cleaning go by the wayside, it can cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars,”Warnings are included on the website.

* Reinforce windows. We need to add more than just flying shards glass.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency – in describing windows — didn’t think so. “particularly vulnerable”– Recommends that you spring for impact-resistant glass or storm shutters. FEMA offers a grief-saving tip: (*”Tape does not prevent windows from breaking.”* Make sure your roof is in good condition. A manufacturer’s warranty doesn’t typically cover roof damage from disasters like hurricanes. Check your home insurance policy. Experts date what they call an

Interest in stronger roofs dates back to Hurricane Irene 2011. It was heart-wrenching to see the footage of all the homes that were destroyed in North Carolina, Virginia, and Delaware.”upsurge”Jason Joplin, the Center for the Advancement of Roofing Excellence’s program manager, said: Joplin loves the

“If you are going to replace your roof, consider shingles that have passed the UL2218, Class 4 impact test, the toughest in the industry,”GAF (Line of Shingles)Timberline ArmorShield IINorth America’s largest roofing company, he says they look good and are made with what he describes to be “The Best Materials”. gaf.comAdditional bonus: The shingles could qualify for substantial discounts on your homeowners insurance, depending on your location.”a rubber-like material for enhanced flexibility and durability during extreme weather conditions.”

* Trim weak tree branches. The dangerous projectile angle is not to be overemphasized. But ask yourself: If you were 5 years old, would Santa Claus crash into your home at hurricane-force speeds?

While you think about that, keep in mind that Matthew may not be the right hurricane for this year. Both the Atlantic hurricane season and the Eastern Pacific hurricane season run until November 30.