Top 10 Ways to Protect Your Home Before Tornado & High-Wind Season

Tornadoes and high winds can cause extensive damage, but proactive steps can help minimize the impact. Here are 10 essential things to do now to protect your home and reduce potential storm damage.

1. Inspect Your Roof & Hire a Professional if Needed

Check for loose or missing shingles, cracks, and weak spots. If you're unsure about your roof’s condition, consider hiring a licensed roofing expert to assess its integrity and make necessary repairs to prevent wind from causing serious damage.

2. Trim Trees & Remove Weak Branches

Overgrown or dying trees can be uprooted or drop heavy branches on your home. Regular trimming reduces this risk and protects your property.

3. Secure Outdoor Items & Loose Debris

Tools, furniture, toys, and decorations can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. Store them indoors or anchor them securely when a storm is expected.

4. Protect Your Vehicle

If possible, park in a garage or under a sturdy shelter. Avoid parking under trees or power lines that could fall during a storm.

5. Clear Gutters & Downspouts

Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and damage your home. Keep them free of debris to prevent water-related issues during heavy storms.

6. Maintain Roof Flashing & Siding

Wind can worsen cracks in siding and tear away loose flashing, leading to water intrusion. Ensure these areas are secure and properly sealed.

7. Reinforce Doors, Windows & Garage Doors

High winds can create pressure imbalances that lead to structural failure. Secure doors and install impact-resistant windows or storm shutters for added protection.

8. Secure Rooftop Equipment & Attachments

Satellite dishes, solar panels, and other items should be properly anchored with straps or cables to prevent them from becoming airborne hazards.

9. Create an Emergency Plan & Disaster Kit

Sign up for weather alerts, establish a safe shelter area in your home, and prepare an emergency kit with food, water, medications, and first aid supplies.

If you receive a storm warning, always follow the guidance of local authorities.

10. Review Your Insurance Coverage

Most homeowners’ policies cover wind damage, but there can be fluctuations in that coverage. For example:

• High-Risk Areas May Have Exclusions – In tornado-prone states or hurricane-prone coastal regions, some policies exclude windstorm or tornado damage, requiring homeowners to purchase separate windstorm coverage.
• Deductibles Can Vary – Some policies, especially in high-risk areas, have separate wind/hail deductibles that are higher than the standard deductible.
• Older Homes or Weak Structures May Have Limitations – If a home has pre-existing structural weaknesses, insurers may limit or deny wind-related claims.
• Mobile Homes May Need Additional Coverage – Standard policies for mobile homes often require a wind endorsement for full protection.

Concklin Insurance Agency is here to help you review your policy and ensure you have the right coverage. Contact us today for expert advice on tornado risk management and insurance protection.