Phone:
+1 (843)964-9247
Charleston, South Carolina
In Charleston, SC, hurricane season (June through November) isn’t just a weather warning: it’s a call to action. With winds exceeding 100 mph, torrential rains and storm surges, preparing your home can mean the difference between a scare and a catastrophe. At D & F Construction LLC, we’ve helped hundreds of families and businesses strengthen their properties. Here is our professional guide to help your home withstand whatever comes.
- Checking and Cleaning Gutters
Why is this critical?
Clogged gutters cause flooding that damages foundations, walls and roofs. In wooded neighborhoods like West Ashley or James Island, leaves and branches are a constant hazard.
What to do:
Professional cleaning: Use pressure washing services to remove sediment without damaging gutters.
Install leaf screens: Prevent future blockages.
Gutter inspection: Make sure water flows away from the house.
D&F Service: We offer pre-hurricane gutter maintenance packages.
- Door and Window Protection
Why is it critical?
90% of damage during a hurricane enters through broken windows or weak doors, according to FEMA studies.
What to do:
Install shutters or boards: Prioritize large windows and glass doors.
Seal joints: Use water-resistant caulk to prevent leaks.
Reinforce frames: If they are wood, apply moisture-protection paint.
Common mistake: Use adhesive tape on glass. It does not prevent breakage and makes post-storm cleaning difficult.
- Roof Maintenance
Why is it critical?
A weak roof can collapse under the weight of water or be torn off by high winds.
What to do:
Check for loose or missing shingles: In areas like Downtown Charleston, historic roofs require specialized attention.
Strengthen structures: Secure rafters and connectors with metal brackets.
Clean the roof: Mold or moss retains moisture and weakens materials.
- Floor and Foundation Preparation
Why is it critical?
Flooding can damage floors, cause moisture in foundations, and generate mold.
What to do:
Seal concrete floors: Use epoxy sealers to prevent leaks.
Elevate appliances: In basements or first floors, place washing machines or space heaters on blocks.
Check drains: Make sure water flows away from the house.
Pro tip: Wood floors in coastal areas such as Mount Pleasant require a damp-proof varnish every 2 years.
- Trimming Trees and Removing Loose Objects
Why is this critical?
Branches or lawn furniture can become deadly projectiles.
What to do:
Strategic pruning: Remove dead branches or branches near power lines.
Store loose objects: Grills, flower pots and toys should be stored in garages.
Anchor lightweight structures: Tool sheds or sheds.
Local Focus: In areas like Johns Island, where century-old oak trees are common, professional pruning is essential.
6. Emergency Kit and Documents
Includes:
Supplies: water (1 gallon per person/day), non-perishable food, flashlights and batteries.
Documents: Insurance policies, property deeds and key contacts in watertight bags.
Tools: Screwdrivers, ropes and a portable generator (if possible).
D&F Tip: Keep recent photos of your property (interior and exterior) to expedite insurance claims.
Post-Storm: Professional Inspection.
Key Steps:
Check for structural damage: Look for cracks in walls, ceilings or foundation.
Clean up carefully: Remove debris with protective equipment.
Professional Drying: Prevent mold with industrial ventilation and dehumidifiers.
Warning: Do not turn on electrical systems if standing water is present.
D&F Construction LLC: Your Ally Before and After a Hurricane
Don’t wait for an orange alert. At D&F Construction LLC, we offer:
✓ Pre-hurricane inspection: we identify weak spots in roofs, gutters and structures.
✓ Preventive maintenance services: Gutter pressure washing, floor sealing and protective painting.
Post-storm repairs: Specialized services as needed.
Ready to protect your home?