Preparing Your Screen Enclosure for Hurricane Season: A Homeowner's Checklist
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Preparing Your Screen Enclosure for Hurricane Season: A Homeowner's Checklist
Be Prepared, Not Scared
For homeowners on the Treasure Coast, the start of hurricane season on June 1st is an annual reminder to prepare. Your screen enclosure is one of the most vulnerable parts of your home in high winds. Taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the risk of damage. At Right Way, we want every Sebastian resident to be prepared. This simple checklist can help you secure your enclosure before a storm threatens.
Step 1: Inspect the Frame and Fasteners
Your first step is a thorough visual inspection. Walk around your enclosure and look at the aluminum frame, paying close attention to the base. Check for any rusted, loose, or missing screws and bolts, especially the ones securing the frame to the concrete deck. These fasteners are the primary anchor holding your enclosure down. Tightening or replacing them is a critical and easy first step.
Step 2: Check the Cables and Anchors
Look up at the corners and along the long roof spans of your enclosure. You should see diagonal braces and steel cables. These are the tension cables, or wind braces, and they are essential for keeping the cage from twisting and buckling in high winds. Ensure they are taut and not frayed or rusted. Check that their connection points at the corners are secure and free of corrosion.
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Step 3: Examine the Condition of Your Screens
Your screens are designed to let wind pass through, but damaged screens are a weak point. Look for any rips, tears, or detached splines (the rubber cord holding the screen in the frame). A small tear can easily be caught by the wind and become a huge hole, putting more pressure on the frame itself. Small tears can be patched, but large sections of damaged screen should be replaced.
Step 4: Clear the Area and Trim Trees
This is a simple but vital step. Remove all loose items from your patio—furniture, potted plants, grills, and pool toys—and store them securely in a garage or shed. These items can become dangerous projectiles in high winds and can easily tear through your screens or damage the frame. Also, be sure to trim back any tree branches that are overhanging or touching your enclosure.
When in Doubt, Call the Professionals
While this checklist covers the basics, sometimes you need a professional eye. If you notice significant rust, many loose fasteners, or are unsure about the integrity of your enclosure, it's best to call for an inspection. The team at Right Way offers professional pre-hurricane inspections and reinforcement services in Sebastian. Contact us today for peace of mind this hurricane season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I remove screen panels before a hurricane?
No. Modern enclosures are engineered as a complete system. Removing panels can alter the intended wind dynamics and may cause the frame to fail in unexpected ways. Doing so could also void your warranty or insurance coverage. It's best to keep the enclosure intact.
Does my homeowner's insurance cover my screen enclosure?
It depends on your specific policy. Most standard Florida homeowner's insurance policies include coverage for screen enclosures, but it is often limited. We strongly advise you to call your insurance agent to confirm your exact coverage amount and any exclusions before hurricane season begins.
What wind speed is my screen enclosure rated for?
This depends on when it was built. Enclosures built under modern Florida Building Codes are engineered to withstand specific wind speeds, often starting at 115 mph and going up from there. At Right Way, we build all our new enclosures to meet or exceed the latest stringent code requirements for your specific location.
Brevard, Indian River & St. Lucie's trusted screen enclosure, paver and outdoor kitchen experts! Call now for fast, affordable new screen enclosure, paver and outdoor kitchen installation.
Call us at ☎ 772-758-5372
