Since hurricanes and tropical storms occur infrequently in Northeast, many homeowners may have be caught offguard by the strength and severity of recent hurricanes or tropical storms.

Following these steps can help protect and prepare your home before the next hurricane or tropical storm:

• Install new windows: Although it costs about twice as much as conventional glass, your windows can be replaced with impact-resistant glass.
• Glue down the roof: Gluing the roof's decking to the rafters can provide it greater resistance from damage due to high winds. The Federal Alliance for Safe Homes Inc.(FLASH), a nonprofit dedicated to disaster preparedness and prevention, recommends using a flooring adhesive.
• Check the trees: Loose or diseased trees and limbs constitute one of the major causes of property loss during a major storm. Flying or falling limbs can cause power outages, personal injury and property damage.
• Replace your garage door, or reinforce it with plywood or steel: FLASH reports that 80 percent of residential hurricane damage starts when wind enters through garage doors, since doors are built to be lightweight for everyday use.

Many of these tasks require a qualified professional to accomplish. Check Angie's List for ratings and reviews of home improvement contactors in your area, get multiple estimates, and be sure to check a company's licensing, bonding and insurance.