6 ways to future-proof your home against extreme weather – your home (and wallet) will thank you

Hurricane season typically brings heightened concerns for homeowners in susceptible regions, particularly in areas like New Orleans, where the months of August and September historically see a surge in hurricane activity. Proactive measures are crucial for protecting homes against the potential damage caused by high winds and heavy rainfall. The LSU AgCenter's LaHouse Resource Center in Baton Rouge, directed by Claudette Reichel, offers practical and cost-effective DIY strategies for homeowners to enhance their home's resilience. One primary area of focus is securing the roof, which is often the first line of defense against hurricane-force winds. High winds can lift the bottom row of shingles, leading to a cascading failure of the entire roof. For roofs not rated for high winds (e.g., Class G or H), applying roofing cement to the bottom row of shingles can significantly improve their adhesion. Each shingle should receive three 1-inch dots of cement: one in the center and one on each side, a few inches from the edge. A single 11-ounce tube of roofing cement, costing approximately $9, can secure about 25 feet of shingles. This process requires about two weeks for proper adherence, emphasizing the need for early preparation. Additionally, checking for and re-adhering any loose shingles is a vital pre-storm task. For more extensive roof upgrades, such as during a roof replacement, several options are available. Adding galvanized ring-shank nails to the roof decking provides superior holding power compared to smooth nails. Installing hurricane straps connects rafters to walls, significantly increasing stability. If the decking remains, applying AGF-01-rated subflooring adhesive along the interface between rafters and sheathing can strengthen the structure. Replacing traditional felt underlay with synthetic, wind-resistant materials and overlapping them by 4 to 6 inches with bitumen tape-sealed seams further enhances protection. Opting for new shingles with higher wind resistance, such as Class G (up to 120 mph) or Class H (up to 150 mph), is also a worthwhile investment. Another critical component to reinforce is the soffits, which protect the home's rafters and help prevent moisture intrusion that can lead to mold and material degradation. Many soffits are designed to sit within J channels where they meet the siding. Strengthening these can be achieved with a 10-ounce tube of polyurethane sealant, priced around $8, and stainless steel screws. The objective is to unify the soffit components, preventing a single weak point from causing widespread failure. A bead of sealant should be applied along the joint between the soffit channel edge and the wall. Sharp-pointed stainless steel screws should then be inserted through the fascia and channels to connect the soffit material securely. Sealant should also be applied in the grooves where the soffits abut the fascia and wall channel. Finally, the trim piece against the house should be caulked at its base where it meets the wall. For long-term durability, some advanced homes, like the LaHouse, utilize built-in vented soffits constructed from the same robust cement board as the rest of the house. Sealing exterior holes is a straightforward yet effective measure to prevent water intrusion. A 10-ounce container of silicone caulk, typically costing around $6, can be used to seal all penetrations where wires, cables, and pipes enter or exit the house. This includes openings for cable TV and phone lines, electrical boxes, AC refrigerant and condensate lines, water heater and water pipes, wall outlets, and various vents (dryer, bathroom, kitchen), as well as electrical devices such as wall lights. Beyond structural enhancements, managing surrounding materials in the yard is essential. Replacing gravel in landscaping with soft mulch (approximately $3-$4 for 2 cubic feet) can prevent gravel from becoming dangerous projectiles that can damage vinyl siding and break windows during strong storms. Encouraging neighbors to adopt similar practices can create a safer community environment. Other critical actions include trimming trees to remove potential hazards and removing dying trees entirely. All loose items in the yard should be secured or stored away before a storm. For more substantial protection, installing storm shutters is highly recommended. The LaHouse showcases strong, lightweight polycarbonate shutters that can be quickly deployed using wing nuts on a pre-mounted pop-open track system. These shutters, while more expensive than plywood, offer superior ease of use and protection against flying debris and pressurization, with their wavy surface contributing to wind resistance. During non-hurricane periods, the track cover closes, making the panels appear like part of the home's trim. These strategies, ranging from simple DIY tasks to larger renovation projects, collectively contribute to making a home more resilient against hurricane impacts. Regular year-round preparation, rather than last-minute efforts, ensures that homes are adequately protected when severe weather strikes. #HurricanePreparedness #HomeMaintenance #StormProofing #RoofProtection #SoffitReinforcement #ExteriorSealing #DIYHomeImprovement #DisasterResilience #LouisianaHomes

Weatherizing a home is a crucial process for enhancing its airtightness and its capacity to retain heated and cooled air, leading to improved comfort, energy efficiency, and reduced running costs. This guide outlines basic, cost-effective weatherizing steps recommended by experts including independent researchers, home energy contractors, and utility representatives. These measures can potentially lower utility bills by up to 40% and include both DIY and professional solutions. The process begins with an energy audit, a professional assessment that identifies a home's energy losses and suggests improvements. Many utility companies offer to cover the cost of these audits and provide lists of approved contractors, which is essential for eligibility for rebates and assistance programs. An energy audit typically involves using a thermal imaging camera to locate hot and cold spots, indicating areas needing better insulation or sealing, and a blower door test, which uses a fan to determine how much air a home is losing through leaks. Following an audit, insulating and sealing attic spaces is often the next step, as attics are a primary source of energy loss, especially in older homes. Proper attic insulation helps regulate indoor temperatures, reducing the workload on HVAC systems. The article recommends adding insulation to both the attic floor and roof, and possibly installing a solar fan to remove heat in summer. Insulation's effectiveness is measured by its R-value, with higher values indicating better insulating properties. Experts also advise using spray-can foam to seal penetrations in the attic from living spaces, such as around HVAC registers and light fixtures. Weather-sealing leaky doors and windows is another key step. While the energy savings from this might be less significant than attic insulation, the improvement in comfort is notable. This can be a simple DIY project involving adhesive barrier tape or door sweeps for larger gaps. The article specifically recommends silicone weather-sealing products from Frost King for their durability and availability. For HVAC ducts, sealing leaks is important for efficiency and lower utility bills. Older metal ducts are particularly prone to leaks. Duct mastic is recommended over foil tape for sealing, and professional help is an option for those unwilling to tackle the job themselves. Finally, installing external storm windows or solar screens offers substantial energy savings. Low-E storm windows, for homes with single-pane windows, can provide similar insulating performance to more expensive double- or triple-pane windows at a fraction of the cost. These windows reflect heat in summer and retain it in winter due to special coatings. In sunny climates, solar screens can block up to 85% of incoming solar heat, improving indoor comfort and preventing furniture fading. Furthermore, the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act's HEAR Program offers rebates for energy-efficient appliance upgrades for low- and moderate-income households, and utility companies often provide their own incentive programs. Replacing old appliances and incandescent bulbs with LEDs also contributes to long-term energy savings. #HomeWeatherization #EnergyEfficiency #DIYHomeImprovement #AtticInsulation #WindowSealing #HVACMaintenance #SolarScreens #EnergyAudits #InflationReductionAct

Many New Yorkers utilize their basements for storage, a practice that carries inherent risks due to the susceptibility of these spaces to dampness and flooding. Recent events, such as Hurricane Ida and Tropical Storm Henri, have underscored the critical need for effective waterproofing strategies in urban environments. Even if direct flooding has not occurred, these significant weather events serve as a vital reminder to assess and enhance basement protection measures. Protecting personal belongings, ranging from clothing and electronics to crucial documents, requires a proactive approach. Simple and relatively inexpensive solutions can make a substantial difference in mitigating water damage. Key among these are waterproof storage containers and bags, designed to create a barrier against moisture and environmental hazards. For instance, heavy-duty plastic bins and water-resistant bags are fundamental components of a robust waterproofing strategy. These items are readily available and can be integrated into existing storage routines with minimal effort and investment. Beyond individual storage solutions, it is also beneficial to consider broader weatherproofing products for the basement itself. One such example is the Quick Dam flood barrier, a product designed to absorb and divert water. Priced at approximately $27 at Home Depot, this barrier can be strategically placed at the base of basement doors to prevent water ingress. Such preventive measures, combined with appropriate storage, form a comprehensive defense against potential flood damage. This article outlines six specific waterproof storage solutions that can help safeguard belongings. The first recommendation is Clear Weathertight totes from The Container Store, priced between $13 and $65. These totes feature an air- and water-tight seal made from urethane foam, effectively keeping out moisture, dirt, and pests. They are also designed with handles and are stackable, offering practical storage and organization. Available in various sizes starting from 6.5 quarts, these totes have received a 4.6-star rating based on 337 customer reviews and have been recommended by professional organizers for flood-proofing basement storage. Another practical solution is Ziploc Big Bags, sold in packs of six for $19. These oversized bags feature a double-zipper enclosure, ideal for protecting items like towels, clothes, and linens from moisture. Constructed from heavy-duty plastic, they also guard against dust and pests and include built-in handles for easy transport. They boast a five-star rating on Amazon from over 2,000 reviews. For valuable documents, the Doc Fortress fireproof and water-resistant document bag is recommended at $40. This bag offers triple-layer protection with a zipper and Velcro closure, safeguarding passports, important papers, jewelry, and small electronics. Measuring 15 by 11 inches, it accommodates legal A4-sized documents and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. For smaller, sensitive items, the Nite Ize RunOff waterproof pouch, priced at $30, is a suitable option. Initially designed for travel, its medium size makes it ideal for protecting small electronics and adapters from water, dust, and sand. It is tested to be waterproof in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes and is available in two colors. Larger items like clothes and linens can be stored in BYG waterproof clothes storage bags, which cost $33. These 100-liter bags are made from heavy-duty fabric with a waterproof undercoating and feature a transparent window for easy content identification. They are also foldable, allowing for efficient space-saving when not in use, and have a 4.5-star rating on Amazon. Finally, for a professional-grade option, the Husky 20-gallon waterproof storage container is available for $34 at Home Depot. This container is both waterproof and dustproof, built from durable materials, and features a hinged lid with six attachment points for security. It also includes side handles and tie-down holes for added safety, receiving a five-star rating from over 500 Home Depot customers. These diverse storage solutions cater to different needs and budgets, providing practical ways to protect belongings from water damage in flood-prone areas like basements. Implementing these strategies can help New Yorkers minimize losses and preserve their possessions during adverse weather conditions. #WaterproofStorage #FloodDamagePrevention #BasementStorage #NYCPreparedness #HomeOrganization #Weatherproofing #StorageSolutions #HurricanePreparedness

With climate change leading to more intense and frequent storms, New Yorkers in apartments, brownstones, and townhouses are increasingly vulnerable to leaks and flooding. This article offers comprehensive advice on how to weatherproof properties in NYC, emphasizing preventive maintenance and specific strategies for different areas of a building. The exterior of a building, including the roof, facade, windows, doors, terraces, balconies, and chimneys, is where most leaks originate. For apartment dwellers, especially those in co-ops or condos, the building board is typically responsible for exterior repairs and upgrades, influenced by regulations like Local Law 11, which mandates frequent facade inspections. However, even if not directly responsible, residents should monitor their landlord or board's approach to storm damage, as their belongings are at risk. For brownstone and townhouse owners, the responsibility for weatherproofing rests entirely with them. If planning a major renovation, collaborating with an engineer to implement barriers exceeding current code requirements is advisable. Securing the roof is the first line of defense against heavy rainfall. Residents with roof access should regularly inspect for cracks or openings, particularly around the parapet and flashing. Caution is advised when installing decking or gardens to avoid damaging the roof's protective membrane. All drains must be clear and unobstructed, with water flowing freely without pooling or gurgling. Frequent inspection and cleaning of gutters, especially in the fall, are crucial to prevent overflow that could damage terraces and seep under doors. During windy conditions, all freestanding items on roofs or terraces should be secured or brought inside to prevent them from becoming projectiles. Terraces and balconies are common flood points. Similar to roofs, their drains need to be kept clear of debris, such as leaves. For ground-level apartments or terrace doors, using flood barriers like Quick Dam Flood Barriers can prevent water intrusion. These reusable, water-absorbing bags become heavy when wet, forming a protective seal, and shrink back as they dry, offering a practical alternative to heavy sandbags. Window seals are another critical area for potential leaks. Older, single-pane windows are particularly vulnerable to gaps around frames or cracks in the glass, especially in cold weather, which can lead to breakage. While replacing caulking and paint can offer some protection against normal rain, upgrading to newer, double- or triple-pane windows designed to withstand extreme weather is often necessary. These modern windows have vacuum seals to prevent air and rain infiltration, but their seals can fail due to poor installation, age, or temperature fluctuations. It is recommended to have a window company test the seals and perform necessary repairs, including re-caulking, adding weatherstripping, or replacing hardware. In some cases, replacing older windows with sturdier "skyscraper" glass might be considered. Any window replacements in co-ops, condos, or historic buildings require board or Landmarks Preservation Agency approval. Locking all exterior windows when a storm is forecast or when away can provide an extra layer of protection by creating a tighter seal. Basements are highly susceptible to flooding. If moisture is a persistent issue, identifying the source—whether through exterior walls or from below—is the first step. Solutions range from filling cracks with hydraulic cement or caulking around windows to sealing bare masonry walls with waterproof paint and applying an external waterproof membrane. More severe issues may require a foundation specialist. Ensuring the drainage system is adequate is essential, potentially involving the installation of a dry well to accumulate excess water, a trench around the interior perimeter, or a French drain with a perforated pipe to redirect water. Sump pumps, though historically less common in NYC, are becoming more vital. Existing sump pumps should be regularly checked for functionality by ensuring the power is on, the circuit breaker is not tripped, and the floater mechanism activates the pump. Annual professional servicing is recommended, as sump pumps typically last about ten years. For basements prone to moisture, continuous use of a sufficiently powerful dehumidifier with a direct run-off hose to a sump pump or French drain is advised. Elevating items like washer and dryer machines on pedestals can also mitigate damage in case of flooding. During townhouse renovations, additional waterproofing measures can be integrated. Architects might suggest floating floors with a space for water accumulation beneath, paired with a drainage system. Dricore subflooring can offer protection against minor leaks, and waterproof flooring materials like luxury vinyl sheets or porcelain tiles can be installed. Anti-microbial options can help prevent mold and mildew. For those with a substantial budget and a desire for maximum protection, advanced materials and applications can be used. For example, some high-end townhouses have incorporated more substantial waterproof membranes with lead-coated copper and a fold-over “drip method” on roofs, along with double-drainage systems and sturdy steel-encased windows. While these measures come at a higher cost, they can offer significant long-term protection against increasingly severe weather events. #Weatherproofing #NYCRealEstate #HomeMaintenance #FloodPrevention #Renovation #Brownstone #ApartmentLiving #ClimateChangeAdaptation #BuildingSafety