Meet the Expert

How do you know if you should prepare your home for extreme weather?

And, if so, which updates should you prioritize?

house with excess rain water

JodiJacobson / Getty Images

Here are the most effective ways to prepare your home for extreme weather.

Want more home reno project tips and inspiration?

Upgrade Your Roof

If your roof is aging, don’t wait around toreplace it.

Swapping them for wind-rated steel doors can make all the difference.

Thomas recommends homeowners to double-check that their doors around the house are reinforced and secured with sturdy locks.

This will help keep your home’s temperature regulated during harsh weather.

Once your house is surrounded by fire, they’re the last line of defense.

Install Water Collection Systems

Droughts and heat waves can quickly make water a scarce commodity.

Incorporating native plants and grasses can alsoprevent soil erosion during floods.

Even young, healthy trees can easily be toppled during hurricane-force winds.

Keeping trees trimmed and removing those that pose too great a risk will help protect your home.

Look for decking that is ignition-resistant and, if it does eventually ignite, intentionally burns slowly.

Reinforce Garage Doors

Garage doors may seem big and strong, but they’re really flimsy.

When paired with their large, flat surface area, they make the perfect sail for a windstorm.