Hurricane Prep 101: Securing Your Screen Enclosure and Outdoor Furniture
Start Your Transformation
Proactive Steps to Protect Your Property and Minimize Storm Damage
Living Prepared on the Florida Coast
Hurricane season is a part of life in Sebastian and the surrounding areas. While we can't control the weather, we can control how prepared our homes are. Your screen enclosure and outdoor living area are often the most exposed parts of your property. Taking the right steps before a storm arrives is essential for minimizing damage to your structure and preventing your furniture from becoming dangerous flying debris.
Clearing the "Projectile Zone"
The most important task is to clear your patio of anything that isn't bolted down. In high winds, even heavy patio chairs, grills, and large planters can become projectiles that tear through screens or break windows. Move all furniture, toys, and decorations into your garage or a secure storage shed. If you have an outdoor kitchen, ensure all loose appliances and covers are moved inside well before the winds pick up.
Inspecting Your Enclosure's Integrity
A strong frame is your best defense against a storm. Take time to inspect your enclosure's anchors and fasteners. Look for rusted screws or base plates that feel loose. These are the "weak links" that often fail during a hurricane. At Right Way, we recommend a professional inspection every few years to ensure your enclosure meets current wind codes and that all structural components are in top condition.
Brevard, Indian River & St. Lucie's trusted screen enclosure, pool design, concrete, paver, and outdoor kitchen experts! Call now for premium backyard transformations including enclosures, concrete, pavers and outdoor kitchen installation.
Call us at ☎ 772-758-5372
Managing Your Screen Panels
There is often debate about whether to cut screen panels before a storm. In general, modern enclosures are engineered to allow the screens to "blow out" under extreme pressure to protect the aluminum frame. Cutting screens is usually unnecessary and results in a costly repair. However, ensuring your screen doors are tightly latched is vital, as an open door can allow wind to enter and create a "parachute effect" that lifts the roof.
Checking Your Drainage Systems
Heavy rain always accompanies Florida hurricanes. Ensure the area around your paver patio and pool deck has clear drainage. Check that your gutters and downspouts are free of debris so water can flow away from your foundation. If you have a pool, you may need to lower the water level slightly to account for the expected rainfall, preventing overflow that could wash out the sand base under your pavers.
Post-Storm Inspection and Repair
Once the storm passes and it is safe to go outside, perform a thorough inspection of your property. Look for bent aluminum, loose screens, or shifted pavers. If you find damage, it is important to contact a professional for repairs as soon as possible to prevent further issues.
Right Way is here to help with storm recovery and high-quality
screen repair services throughout
Indian River County.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I drain my pool before a hurricane?
No. You should never completely drain your pool. The weight of the water keeps the pool shell in the ground. If you drain it, the rising groundwater can actually lift the pool out of the earth. Lowering the water by about a foot is usually sufficient.
Is it safe to tie my furniture to the enclosure frame?
We do not recommend this. Tying heavy furniture to the aluminum frame puts extra stress on the structure that it wasn't designed for. In high winds, the furniture can pull on the beams and cause the frame to bend or fail. Moving items inside is always the safer choice.
How can I tell if my enclosure's anchors are rusted?
Look at the base of the aluminum posts where they meet the concrete. If you see orange rust stains on the concrete or if the screws look corroded and "puffy," the anchors are likely compromised. This is a serious issue that should be addressed by a professional before storm season.
Brevard, Indian River & St. Lucie's trusted screen enclosure, concrete, paver and outdoor kitchen experts! Call now for fast, affordable new screen enclosure, concrete, paver and outdoor kitchen installation.
Call us at ☎ 772-758-5372
