Living in Florida means enjoying sunny skies, warm beaches, and year-round outdoor living, but it also means preparing for hurricane season. At Wet Out Restoration, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly water damage can devastate homes and businesses when storms hit. The good news? With the right preparation, you can greatly reduce your risk of costly and stressful water damage.

In this guide, we’ll share practical, easy-to-follow tips to help you protect your property before the next big storm rolls through.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Florida’s hurricane season brings a high risk of water damage, but preparation can greatly reduce that risk.
Inspect and maintain roofs, windows, and foundations before storms.
Seal gaps, clean gutters, and install backflow valves to protect your home.
Review insurance coverage to make sure you’re financially protected.
Have an emergency plan and safeguard valuables in case of flooding.
Call Wet Out Restoration immediately after a storm to minimize damage and speed recovery.

Understanding the Risks of Hurricane Season

Florida’s hurricane season runs from June through November, bringing heavy rain, high winds, and storm surges. These conditions can overwhelm drainage systems, damage roofs, and allow water to enter homes in ways you may not expect. Even minor leaks during a storm can quickly turn into major water damage issues, leading to structural damage, mold growth, and expensive repairs.

Being proactive isn’t just about protecting your home—it’s about protecting your family’s safety and peace of mind.

Tip 1: Inspect and Maintain Your Roof

Your roof is your first line of defense during a storm. Loose shingles, cracked flashing, or clogged gutters can leave your home vulnerable to water intrusion. Before hurricane season is in full swing:

Check shingles and tiles for cracks, curling, or missing pieces.
Inspect flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vents for gaps.
Clean gutters and downspouts to make sure water flows away from your home.
Trim nearby trees to reduce the risk of branches puncturing the roof.

If you notice significant wear and tear, it’s wise to schedule professional repairs before the storms roll in.

Tip 2: Seal Windows and Doors

Hurricane-force winds can push water into the smallest gaps. It’s for this reason that sealing entry points is so crucial:

Apply weatherstripping around windows and doors.
Check caulking around window frames and replace if it’s cracked.
Install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows if possible.

Even something as simple as sealing small cracks can prevent gallons of water from entering your home.

Tip 3: Protect Your Foundation

Flooding and pooling water around your foundation can cause serious structural issues. To reduce this risk:

Grade your yard so water drains away from your home.
Extend downspouts at least 3–5 feet from the foundation.
Seal visible cracks in your foundation with waterproof caulking.
Install a sump pump if your home is prone to flooding.

These steps help keep water from seeping in at ground level, where it often causes hidden damage.

Tip 4: Safeguard Outdoor Areas

Outdoor spaces often contribute to indoor water damage if not prepared:

Secure patio furniture and outdoor equipment so they don’t crash into your home.
Bring in potted plants or anything lightweight that could be carried by wind.
Clear drains and storm grates near your property.
Store outdoor items like grills, bikes, or garden tools indoors.

By taking action outside, you minimize the chances of damage inside.

Tip 5: Install Backflow Valves

When heavy rains and storm surges overwhelm sewer systems, sewage can back up into your home. Installing backflow valves in drains, toilets, and sinks can help prevent contaminated water from coming inside. This is a step many homeowners overlook until it’s too late.

Tip 6: Check Your Home Insurance Coverage

One of the most overlooked parts of hurricane prep is reviewing your insurance policy. Many homeowners assume flood damage is included—but most policies exclude it.

Review your policy carefully before hurricane season.
Consider adding flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
Take photos of your property and belongings for documentation.

Having the right coverage in place ensures you’re financially protected if damage does occur.

Tip 7: Create an Emergency Plan

Even with the best preparation, storms can be unpredictable. A well-thought-out emergency plan helps you respond quickly:

Know your evacuation routes.
Have a waterproof bag ready for important documents.
Keep emergency supplies on hand (flashlights, batteries, bottled water, and first-aid kits).
Save Wet Out Restoration’s number so you can call for water damage help immediately after the storm.

Tip 8: Protect Your Valuables

If flooding is possible in your area, take extra precautions to safeguard your belongings:

Store important items in waterproof containers.
Keep electronics off the floor.
Move valuables to higher levels of your home if you expect rising water.

A little preparation now can save you from impactful losses later.

Tip 9: Inspect Plumbing and Water Systems

Sometimes the biggest threats don’t come from outside but from within your home. Hurricanes can shake and shift pipes, leading to leaks. Make sure to:

Inspect visible plumbing for corrosion or loose connections.
Know where your main water shut-off valve is located.
Consider installing a water leak detection system.

Catching plumbing issues early can prevent water damage during and after a storm.

After the Storm: Acting Quickly Matters

If your home does experience flooding or other kinds of damage during a hurricane, a quick response can make all of the difference. The faster water is removed, the less damage occurs. At Wet Out Restoration, we provide 24/7 emergency response to Port St Lucie and surrounding areas in Florida. From water extraction and drying to full restoration and even reconstruction, we’re here to help homeowners recover quickly and safely.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for hurricane season may feel overwhelming, but small steps add up to big protection. By tackling these preventative measures now, you’ll safeguard your home, your belongings, and your peace of mind. At Wet Out Restoration, we’re proud to stand by Florida homeowners before, during, and after the storm.

We’re here 24/7 to keep your home safe and dry. If you need help recovering from water damage, reach out to our team today.

Tips for Preventing Water Damage This Hurricane Season