To help reduce the number of Maine home insurance claims you might need to make, you should take steps to reduce the risk of damage from natural disasters and weather events to your home. When it comes to high winds, there are a few relatively inexpensive steps you can take to avoid wind from entering your building.
According to FEMA, one of the most effective ways to avoid this is by installing permanent storm shutters on windows and doors. These are usually made from steel or aluminum and can be operated either manually or motor-driven. However, if installing motor-driven shutters, it’s also important to be able to manually operate them in case of power failure.
Temporary shutters can also be made up if required for less cost, although they usually involve more work to attach them to the house structure. When it comes to temporary shutter material, FEMA recommends plywood, metal panel, fiberglass or mesh covers, but advises against using oriented strand board or OSB.
The Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS) also recommends installing a high-wind rated roof cover. Should you be unsure of the wind rating of your roof, check with the builder who installed it or if that’s not possible, arrange an inspection from a professional contractor.
Lastly, it’s important to make sure that you have adequate Maine home insurance coverage to rebuild your home, if it does inadvertently suffer damage from a natural disaster or peril such as high wind. Our agents can help with more information!
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