Regardless of where you live, you’ve likely encountered more frequent severe weather warnings or actual events causing significant damage. Weather-related natural disasters can vary dramatically, potentially including severe heat, drought, wind, wildfire, or water.

As a homeowner, you may face different risks depending on where you live. The good news is that there are many ways to make your property more resilient to weather hazards. Here are 25 ways to help protect your home.

Wildfires

1. Clear a space of at least 100 feet around your home and remove dead or dry vegetation and other flammable materials.
2. Install tempered glass windows which are more resistant to breaking during a wildfire.
3. Cover vents and windows with metal mesh screens to prevent embers from entering the home.
4. Install a wildfire-resistant fence around the property to provide an additional flame barrier.
5. Ensure that your homeowners insurance covers damage from wildfires.

Floods

6. Consider elevating the home’s foundation if it's in a flood-prone area.
7. Install backflow valves on all pipes to prevent sewage backup during a flood.
8. Seal your foundation.
9. Install a sump pump to prevent water from seeping into your basement or crawlspace.
10. Store valuables and important documents in a waterproof safe on an upper floor or off-site.
11. Purchase flood insurance.

Severe Storms and Hurricanes

12. Install impact-resistant tempered windows, doors, or storm shutters to protect against high winds and flying debris.
13. Reinforce your roof with hurricane straps or clips to prevent it from being blown off.
14. Keep your trees trimmed to remove weak branches that may fall on your house during a storm.
15. Have a backup power source, such as a generator, in case of power outages.
16. Review your insurance coverage and make sure it covers wind and storm damage.

Extreme Heat

17. Install a high-efficiency air conditioning system to reduce energy usage and costs.
18. Plant shade trees or install shading devices such as awnings or shutters to block direct sunlight from entering your home.
19. Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork to prevent hot air from entering.
20. Use a programmable thermostat to control the temperature and save energy.

Drought

21. Use drought-resistant plants in your landscaping.
22. Use a drip irrigation system instead of sprinklers to conserve water.
23. Install low-flow fixtures and appliances to reduce water usage.
24. Collect rainwater in a barrel to use for watering plants.
25. Replace your lawn with artificial turf or drought-tolerant ground cover.

Even with these precautions in place, there is no guarantee that a home will make it through an extreme weather event unharmed. However, taking these steps can reduce the risk of property damage. Consult with a professional to determine the best strategies for your situation.