If you live in Texas, you know storm season can be unpredictable. One moment, it’s sunny, and the next, the sky turns dark, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and even hail. Austin and other parts of Texas often experience intense storms, especially during spring and hurricane season. Homes take a beating from these extreme weather conditions, so it’s important to prepare before the storms arrive.

Taking the right steps now can help prevent damage, save money on repairs, and keep your family safe. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to do to stormproof your home, from securing your roof to preparing an emergency kit.

1. Inspect and Strengthen Your Roof

Your roof plays a major role in protecting your home during storms. If it’s damaged or weak, wind and rain can cause serious problems. That’s why checking it before storm season is one of the best things you can do.

Start by looking for missing shingles, cracks, or any signs of wear. Even small gaps can turn into big leaks when heavy rain comes. If you see anything concerning, it’s a good idea to get professional roof repair in Austin to fix weak spots before they get worse. A roofing expert can inspect your roof, replace damaged shingles, and reinforce weak areas to ensure your home stays protected.

Regular roof inspections are key to preventing costly damage. A strong, well-maintained roof can withstand high winds and heavy rain much better than one with existing issues. Taking care of minor repairs now can help you avoid expensive fixes later.

2. Trim Trees and Secure Outdoor Items

Strong winds can turn outdoor items into dangerous projectiles. Even a small potted plant or patio chair can cause damage if it gets thrown against your house or a window.

To reduce risks, trim any tree branches that hang over your home. High winds can easily break weak branches, and if they fall, they might damage your roof, car, or windows. Also, check for any trees that look unstable. If a tree is leaning or has dead branches, it may not survive a strong storm. Removing weak trees now can prevent bigger problems later.

In addition to tree trimming, secure or store loose outdoor items. Patio furniture, grills, planters, and even children’s toys should be brought inside when a storm is coming. If you can’t bring them inside, anchor them down to keep them from blowing away.

3. Clean and Maintain Gutters

Your gutters play an important role in directing rainwater away from your home. But if they’re clogged with leaves and debris, water can overflow, leading to leaks, foundation problems, and even interior water damage.

Before storm season, take the time to clean your gutters thoroughly. Remove leaves, sticks, and dirt to ensure proper water flow. Also, check your downspouts to make sure they are directing water away from your home’s foundation. If water pools near your house, it can lead to serious issues, including basement flooding and soil erosion.

If your gutters are old or sagging, consider replacing them. Strong, well-maintained gutters help prevent costly water damage during heavy rainstorms.

4. Reinforce Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are among the most vulnerable parts of your home during a storm. High winds and flying debris can easily break glass or weaken door frames.

If you live in an area that frequently experiences strong storms, consider installing impact-resistant windows. These are designed to withstand high winds and debris. If that’s not an option, storm shutters or plywood can add extra protection.

Check all doors, including garage doors, to ensure they are strong and secure. If your garage door is weak, high winds can push it inward, causing serious structural damage. Reinforcement kits can help strengthen your garage door, making it more resistant to storm damage.

5. Check Your Home’s Drainage System

Heavy rain can lead to flooding, especially if your home’s drainage system isn’t working properly. To prevent water damage, check for low spots around your home where water tends to collect. If you notice pooling water, you may need to regrade the soil or install a French drain to help redirect water away from your foundation. Also, make sure your sump pump (if you have one) is in good working condition. If your area is prone to flooding, consider installing a backup battery system for your sump pump in case of a power outage.

Proper drainage can make a big difference in keeping your home dry and protected during heavy storms.

6. Prepare for Power Outages

Power outages are common during Texas storms, so it’s important to be prepared. Having a backup plan in place can make a big difference.

First, stock up on essential supplies like flashlights, batteries, and portable phone chargers. If you rely on medical devices that need electricity, make sure you have a backup power source or an alternative plan.

If possible, consider investing in a generator. A generator can keep your refrigerator, medical devices, and other important appliances running during an outage. Make sure you store extra fuel and know how to use the generator safely.

Charge all your electronic devices before a storm hits. Keep an eye on weather updates so you know when to expect potential power outages.

7. Create an Emergency Kit

Every home should have an emergency kit ready before storm season. Having the right supplies on hand can make a big difference in an emergency.

Your emergency kit should include:

• Bottled water (at least three days’ worth per person)
• Non-perishable food (canned goods, protein bars, etc.)
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• First aid supplies
• Important documents (insurance papers, IDs) in a waterproof container
• Extra cash
• Medications and necessary medical supplies

Having an emergency kit ready ensures you’re prepared if a storm causes power outages, flooding, or other disruptions.

Storm season in Texas can be unpredictable, but taking the right precautions can help keep your home and family safe. From checking your roof to securing outdoor items and having an emergency kit, these small steps can make a big difference.

Now is the time to prepare. Don’t wait until a storm is on the way—take action today to protect your home and stay safe this season.