After the storm, you can make your house better

If your home was damaged by Hurricane Francine, the tremendous work, expense and stress can mean a daunting and difficult ordeal ahead. But if you restore for more than before, you can return to a stronger, more resilient, comfortable and healthy home.
“Recovering from storm damage is incredibly difficult, but it’s also an opportunity to strengthen your home for the future,” said Carol Friedland, director of the LSU AgCenter LaHouse Research and Education Center.
For those whose homes have sustained damage, LaHouse recommends rebuilding with resilience in mind:
—Upgrade to wind- and flood-resistant materials. Consider using stronger materials like hurricane straps, impact-resistant windows and flood-resistant flooring. These improvements can greatly reduce the likelihood of future damage.
—Follow the FORTIFIED building standards. This nationally recognized standard improves your home’s ability to withstand severe weather and can offer peace of mind for future storms.
—Consult a licensed contractor experienced in resilient building practices. Work with professionals who understand the unique challenges posed by Louisiana’s weather patterns and can help you make informed choices about upgrades.
—Take advantage of local and federal programs. There may be financial assistance or incentives available to support more resilient rebuilding, so explore all your options when planning repairs.
—Invest in high-quality windows, doors and garage doors. High winds and flying debris can break windows and push in or pull out a standard garage door or entry door, allowing pressure to build inside, push on the roof and surrounding walls and cause major structural damage to a home. If you live in a high wind zone and are replacing any windows, doors or garage doors, invest in wind- and impact-rated units. If you are not replacing them, consider adding easy-to-use windborne debris protections such as impact-rated shutters, screens and lightweight removable panels.
“By rebuilding with resilience in mind, homeowners can not only restore what was lost but also better prepare for the next storm,” Friedland said.
In the immediate aftermath of the storm, the LaHouse is reminding homeowners to prioritize safety and be vigilant when assessing damage and beginning cleanup. With the potential for structural damage and downed powerlines, it’s critical that residents take precautions to avoid further harm.
LaHouse advises homeowners to:
Inspect for major structural damage. Look for signs of foundation cracks, shifted walls or sagging roofs before entering your home. These could indicate serious hazards, and you may need professional assistance before beginning cleanup.
Beware of contractor scams. Only hire licensed, insured contractors to make repairs, and always check references. Scammers often target vulnerable homeowners after disasters, so take your time to make informed decisions.
Avoid standing water and downed power lines. These can pose electrical hazards. Report downed lines to authorities and wait for professionals to address them.
Use personal protective equipment. When cleaning up debris, wear sturdy gloves, boots and goggles to avoid injury from sharp objects or harmful materials.
“Recovering from a hurricane is a process that requires both care and caution,” Friedland said.
“It’s important for homeowners to approach post-storm cleanup methodically. Staying safe during recovery can help prevent further injury or financial loss.”
LaHouse also reminds residents to document all damage with photos and contact their insurance companies. For more detailed guidance on storm recovery and building resilience, visit LSUAgCenter.com/LaHouse.