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Preventing wind damage

Strong wind gusts, isolated tornados, and severe thunderstorms occur in some part of the world every year.

The extent of damage can range from lifting of part of the roof and collapse of the walls. There are a number of precautions you can take to lessen the risk of damage:

·   Ensure the roofing is securely fixed to the building frame

·   Don’t leave loose materials such as sheet products or long-run metal roofing are tied or weighted down.

·   Remove all trees or parts of trees which are close to the building and in poor condition – you may need approval from your local council where  tree preservation orders are in place.

·   Trim sound trees which, under windy conditions, could damage building elements such as gutters and windows.

·   Endure fence posts are securely anchored into the ground.

·   Close and securely latch windows.

If there is enough warning of a cyclone, several thunderstorm or windstorm there may be time to:

·   Erect plywood covers over large areas of windward glazing to protect them from damage

·   Store in the garage or under the house any loose items that remain lying around that could become missiles (rubbish tins, wheel barrow, sheet materials)

·   Provide temporary support ( from the inside) to the center of large garage doors by using timber struts.