Homeowners urged to prepare before hurricane season to limit storm damage

As hurricane season nears, a Knoxville roofing company is urging homeowners to inspect roofs, drainage, windows and outdoor structures before severe weather arrives. The guidance aims to reduce preventable damage, improve safety and make insurance claims easier if storms hit.

Why it matters: - Hurricane season can bring high winds, heavy rain, flying debris and power outages that put homes under strain. - Early maintenance can reduce preventable damage and lower the risk of costly repairs after a storm. - Advance planning also helps homeowners respond more safely and with less stress.

What happened: - Tony's Roofs in Knoxville, Tennessee, outlined a hurricane-preparedness checklist for homeowners. - Founder Tony Moore said home preparation before hurricane season helps identify maintenance needs while weather is still favorable. - The company urged homeowners to address roofing, drainage, landscaping, structural maintenance and emergency planning before storms develop.

The details: - Roof inspections can reveal loose or damaged shingles, deteriorated flashing, worn sealants and aging materials before hurricane-force winds and heavy rainfall worsen the problems. - Gutters and downspouts should be cleared so rainwater can drain away from the home instead of overflowing near the foundation. - Trees and landscaping need attention because dead limbs, weakened branches and overgrown trees can damage roofs, windows, vehicles and utility lines. - Windows and exterior doors should be checked for loose weatherstripping, damaged frames, cracked glass and failing seals. - Homeowners in hurricane-prone areas may review impact-resistant windows or approved storm shutters as part of long-term planning. - Garage doors may need reinforcement because large doors can face substantial wind pressure during hurricanes. - Exterior siding, trim and soffits should be inspected for loose materials that can detach in strong winds and allow water intrusion. - Outdoor furniture, grills, planters, umbrellas, playground equipment and other loose items should be secured or stored before storms arrive. - Fences, gates, sheds and detached structures should be checked for loose panels, deteriorated fasteners and weakened framing. - Portable generators should be inspected and tested, with fuel stored in approved containers and used only under manufacturer guidelines. - Emergency supply kits should include drinking water, nonperishable food, flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, medications, important documents, portable phone chargers and weather radios. - Insurance policies should be reviewed annually so homeowners understand coverage, deductibles, documentation requirements and exclusions before a storm. - Current photos of the home and valuable possessions can help with post-storm documentation. - Drainage around the home should be inspected so proper grading and clear pathways move water away from the foundation. - Attics should be checked for roof leaks, moisture intrusion and ventilation problems before storms add more moisture. - Families should set emergency contacts, evacuation routes, meeting locations and ways to receive weather updates.

Between the lines: - The guidance frames hurricane readiness as a year-round maintenance issue, not just a last-minute storm checklist. - The recommendation to document property and review insurance points to a broader focus on recovery, not just prevention. - The emphasis on generators, drainage and structural exterior elements reflects the most common failure points that can turn a weather event into home damage.

What's next: - Homeowners in hurricane-prone areas are expected to use the remaining calm period before storms intensify to complete inspections and small repairs. - Tony's Roofs said regular roof inspections, exterior maintenance, tree trimming and storm planning can reduce the number of issues that need attention as hurricane season approaches.

The bottom line: - No preparation eliminates hurricane risk, but timely maintenance can make homes more resilient and reduce avoidable damage when severe weather hits.

Visit us on social media: Rhino Digital's Facebook page Tony Moore, founder of Tony's Roofs, said, "Preparing a home before hurricane season begins allows homeowners to identify maintenance needs while weather conditions remain favorable."