10 Easy Ways to Weatherproof Your Home Before Hurricane Season Hits

March 31, 2025

Hurricane season starts every year on June 1. For many people, it is a stressful time throughout the year because their homes are in harm’s way. There are close to 70 million people living in areas that are prone to experiencing hurricanes, with numbers increasing by the day, it seems. So, how do you weatherproof your home? Here are 10 easy ways to prep your house for the upcoming hurricane season.

1. Inspect and Reinforce Your Roof

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against wind and rain. Check for missing or loose shingles and replace them immediately. Use roofing cement or sealant to patch small cracks and gaps. If your roof is older, consider hurricane straps to secure the roof to your walls. Hire a professional inspector if you’re unsure about its condition.

2. Install Storm Shutters or Plywood

Storm shutters are one of the best ways to protect your windows from flying debris. If shutters are not in your budget, pre-cut plywood to fit each window and store it for future use. Use heavy-duty anchors and bolts to secure plywood firmly. Don’t wait until the last minute—supplies often run out when a hurricane is approaching. Choose materials like marine-grade plywood for better durability.

3. Seal Windows and Doors

Even if you cover your windows, you’ll want to check for leaks and gaps. Use caulk or weatherstripping around windows and door frames to keep out wind-driven rain. Inspect thresholds and door sweeps and replace if worn. Pay close attention to sliding glass doors, which are especially vulnerable. Sealing gaps can also improve your home’s energy efficiency.

4. Secure Outdoor Furniture and Decor

Outdoor items can quickly turn into dangerous projectiles during high winds. Move patio furniture, planters, and decor inside or anchor them to the ground. Don’t forget grills, garden tools, and toys—they all need to be secured. Trim back overhanging tree branches that could fall onto your home. Install wind-resistant fencing or gates to help prevent loose panels.

5. Check and Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters can lead to water damage during heavy rains. Remove leaves, twigs, and debris from gutters and downspouts. Make sure water flows away from your home’s foundation. Extend downspouts with splash blocks or flexible tubing to divert water properly. Check that gutter brackets are secure and won’t detach in strong winds.

6. Elevate Appliances and Utilities

If you’re in a flood-prone area, elevate major appliances like your washer, dryer, and HVAC systems. Use concrete blocks or elevation platforms designed for flooding. Protect electrical outlets and circuit breakers by relocating them above expected flood levels. Install sump pumps with battery backup in basements or crawlspaces. Label your home’s shut-off valves so you can act quickly if flooding occurs.

7. Waterproof Your Basement

A wet basement can lead to mold and structural issues. Apply waterproofing sealant to walls and floors for added protection. Install or upgrade sump pumps and test them regularly. Seal foundation cracks with hydraulic cement or epoxy. Add a moisture barrier under basement flooring if possible.

8. Install a Backup Generator

Power outages are common during hurricanes and can last for days. A backup generator keeps essential systems like refrigerators and medical equipment running. Choose a portable or standby generator based on your needs and budget. Store extra fuel safely and away from living areas. Have an electrician install a transfer switch for safety and ease of use.

9. Create a Home Emergency Kit

Prepare an emergency kit that includes flashlights, batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food, and first-aid supplies. Add important documents in a waterproof bag and include pet supplies if needed. Store everything in a sturdy, easily accessible container. Have a battery-operated radio to receive emergency alerts. Review and update your kit before each hurricane season.

10. Review Your Insurance Coverage

Contact your insurance provider to verify your home is properly covered for hurricanes and floods. Consider purchasing additional flood insurance if you live in a risk area. Take photos of your belongings for inventory purposes. Keep your insurance documents in a waterproof container or digital cloud storage. Understand your deductibles and what’s excluded from your policy.

Stay Safe With Preparation and Peace of Mind

Weatherproofing your home goes beyond having a checklist of “things to do.” You have to invest in things that will make your home safer during the long hurricane season from June 1 to November 30. These 10 things will offer you a final layer of protection, hopefully reducing damage and keeping your family safe.

Are there any tips you’d add to the list?

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Drew Blankenship

Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.