High winds happen everywhere, even in Connecticut

As many building owners across Connecticut know, the threat of high winds can be very damaging to windows, roofs, signs and other fixtures on the outside of a commercial building. Whether you rent or own your building you need to protect it from high wind events such as hurricanes, tornadoes, or straight-line gusts. We want your building to be protected, so we recommend you follow this checklist which outlines the latest building science guidelines from the Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS).

High Winds Checklist for businesses in Connecticut:

• Check your roof condition no matter where you live in Connecticut

  Have your roof inspected by a reputable roofing contractor to determine if repairs are needed or replacement is recommended. We can make sure your coverage is up-to-date but it is up to you, or your landlord, to make sure your building’s cover is up-to-date!

• In Connecticut, you need to assess exterior fixtures and landscaping for potential hazards

  Trim tress and shrubbery, cut weak branches. Secure signs and vent stacks, mechanical equipment or other items on your building or roof. Remove bricks or pallets or other debris from around your building that could become projectiles in high winds. Secure outbuildings, fences, outdoor furniture and awnings. We encourage you to have a written emergency plan for when a high wind event is predicted. You can learn more and get templates for creating an Emergency Plan when you contact us.

• Establish a plan for window and door protection

  The highest level of protection for doors and windows are professionally produced shutters or screens. The standard for these products is to withstand a 9-pound 2x4 hurtling at 34 mph! If you do not have shutters or screens, we encourage you to at the minimum, check seals around windows and repair any damage and install head or foot bolts on double doors. Also, check with your door and window manufacturer to know the pressure rating of your openings. All of these will give you greater knowledge of your building and greater peace of mind should a high wind event happen in Connecticut.

• Schedule an evaluation of potential structural weakness

  We want your building to be safe for the protection of you, your employees and neighboring businesses or homes. So we encourage you to inspect the gable ends of your commercial building to determine they are adequately attached to roof and ceiling. Also have anchoring of porches, canopies, overhangs, or facades evaluated for proper and sturdy attachment. Knowing your commercial building’s weaknesses and strengthening them now can save you money and possibly lives tomorrow!

For more advice and complete help in protecting your business and your employees, contact us today!