As hurricane season approaches each year, South Carolina homeowners face the familiar threat of tropical storms and hurricanes bringing high winds, heavy rain, and the potential for substantial property damage. South Carolina’s low-lying areas, proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, and warm coastal waters make it especially vulnerable to these powerful storms. By implementing a series of preventative measures, homeowners can significantlyreduce the risks associated with tropical storms and hurricanes, safeguarding both property and peace of mind. Here’s how to best protect your home from the impacts of these storms. Reinforce Windows and Doors One of the most vulnerable parts of any home during a storm is its windows and doors. Strong winds, flying debris, and even rain pressure can shatter glass or force doors open, leaving the rest of the home exposed to further damage. Install Hurricane Shutters: Consider installing hurricane shutters, which are specifically designed to withstand high winds and flying debris. Options include roll-down shutters, accordion-style shutters, and storm panels. Use Impact-Resistant Windows: Upgrading to impact-resistant windows is a great long-term investment. They’re made with a special layer of polyvinyl between two panes of glass to absorb impact, which helps prevent shattering. Secure Doors: Exterior doors should have at least three hinges and a deadbolt lock with a one-inch throw bolt. Double doors should have a sturdy slide bolt that secures the inactive door to the frame at both the top and bottom. Maintain the Roof and Gutters A roof is the primary line of defense against rain and wind, and it needs to be in optimal condition to withstand the force of a tropical storm. Inspect and Repair the Roof: Regularly check your roof for loose or missing shingles, signs of rust on metal components, and damage to the flashing. Consider investing in roof tie-downs or hurricane straps, which help secure the roof to the walls of the house and reduce the risk of uplift in high winds. Clean and Secure Gutters: Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages that could lead to water backing up and spilling over, causing potential water damage. Secure all gutters and downspouts firmly so they won’t come loose in strong winds. Trim Trees and Secure Outdoor Items Untrimmed trees and unsecured outdoor objects are major hazards during hurricanes, as they can become dangerous projectiles. Trim and Prune Trees: Regularly trim trees and shrubs around your property to remove weak or dead branches that could break off during high winds. Focus especially on branches near the house, which can cause significant damage if they fall on the roof or break windows. Secure Loose Items: Bring in outdoor furniture, planters, and other items that could become airborne in high winds. If something is too large to bring indoors, secure it as best as possible with heavy-duty straps or anchoring. Elevate Electrical Components and Install a Sump Pump Flooding is a serious concern in South Carolina’s coastal areas, where low elevations and heavy rain can lead to water intrusion. Protecting your home’s electrical system and managing water flow is essential to minimize flood damage. Elevate Electrical Equipment: If possible, move electrical panels, switches, outlets, and wiring at least a foot above the expected flood level. This can help prevent short-circuits and reduce fire risks. Install a Sump Pump: Sump pumps are especially useful for homes with basements or in low-lying areas. They help to quickly remove accumulated water from your home’s foundation and keep water damage to a minimum. A battery backup system is also advisable to ensure continued operation during power outages. Seal Gaps and Cracks in Walls and Foundations Water often finds its way into a home through the smallest openings, which can lead to extensive water damage and mold growth. Sealing these gaps can make a big difference. Use Caulk and Weather Stripping: Inspect areas around windows, doors, pipes, and vents for cracks and gaps. Use a weather-resistant caulk to seal smaller gaps, and add weather stripping around doors to create a water-resistant seal. Inspect Foundation: Walk around your home’s foundation and look for any visible cracks or weak spots. Filling these with hydraulic cement or waterproof sealant can help keep water from seeping into your home. Consider Flood Insurance and a Home Inventory Even the best-prepared homes can suffer unexpected damage during major storms, making insurance a vital part of any hurricane preparedness plan. Get Flood Insurance: South Carolina’s coastal areas are especially prone to flooding. Standard homeowner’s insurance typically does not cover flood damage, so it’s wise to consider a separate flood insurance policy, especially if you live in a high-risk zone. Document Your Belongings: Keep an inventory of your valuable items, including photos, receipts, and serial numbers if applicable. This can simplify the insurance claims process should you need to file a claim post-storm. Install a Backup Power Supply Power outages are common during tropical storms and hurricanes, which can disrupt your ability to keep essential equipment like refrigerators, medical devices, and sump pumps running. Invest in a Generator: A portable generator can provide essential backup power during an outage. Be sure to operate it safely, following all manufacturer instructions to avoid carbon monoxide risks. For more extensive needs, a permanently installed whole-home generator is an effective option. Conclusion For South Carolina homeowners, taking proactive measures to protect a property from tropical storms and hurricanes is an essential step in minimizing damage. By securing windows, doors, roofs, and outdoor areas, maintaining water-resistant barriers, and having a backup power plan, homeowners can protect their investments and reduce the risks posed by high winds and heavy rains. Staying prepared and informed will ensure you, your family, and your home are ready to weather the storm.

As the weather warms and flowers begin to bloom, it's the perfect time to give your home some much-needed attention. Spring is not only a season of renewal but also an ideal time for home maintenance tasks to ensure your property is in top condition. To help you get started, we've compiled the ultimate spring home maintenance checklist: Exterior: Inspect Roof: Begin by checking your roof for any signs of damage, such as missing shingles or leaks. Addressing these issues early can prevent costly repairs down the road. Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Remove leaves, twigs, and debris from your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage and prevent water damage to your home's foundation. Check Siding and Exterior Paint: Inspect the siding and exterior paint for cracks, peeling, or signs of rot. Repair and repaint as needed to protect against moisture and maintain curb appeal. Inspect Windows and Doors: Check for drafts, leaks, or damaged seals around windows and doors. Replace weatherstripping and caulk as necessary to improve energy efficiency. Service HVAC System: Schedule a professional inspection and maintenance for your HVAC system to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency during the warmer months ahead. Clean Outdoor HVAC Unit: Clear debris, dirt, and leaves from the outdoor unit to allow for proper airflow. Trim vegetation around the unit to prevent obstruction. Inspect and Clean Outdoor Lighting: Replace any burnt-out bulbs and clean fixtures to ensure adequate illumination and enhance curb appeal during evening hours. Check Outdoor Faucets and Hoses: Inspect outdoor faucets and hoses for leaks or damage. Replace worn-out hoses and repair faucets as needed to prevent water waste. Inspect Deck or Patio: Check for loose or damaged boards, railing, and stairs on your deck or patio. Clean and seal the surface to protect against moisture and extend its lifespan. Landscaping Maintenance: Trim shrubs and trees, remove weeds, and freshen up mulch or landscaping material. Plant flowers or add seasonal plants to enhance the beauty of your outdoor space. Interior: Deep Clean: Give your home a thorough cleaning, including dusting, vacuuming, mopping floors, and washing windows to remove winter grime and freshen up your living spaces. Inspect Plumbing Fixtures: Check for leaks, drips, or signs of water damage around sinks, toilets, and faucets. Repair or replace as needed to prevent water waste and potential water damage. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Replace batteries and test the functionality of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace units if they are outdated or not functioning correctly. Service Appliances: Clean refrigerator coils, replace water filters, and inspect dishwasher and washing machine hoses for leaks or damage to ensure they are running efficiently. Check Attic and Basement: Inspect for signs of pests, water leaks, or mold in your attic and basement. Ensure proper insulation and ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and potential damage. Inspect Electrical System: Test outlets and light switches for functionality. Replace any flickering bulbs or malfunctioning switches to prevent electrical hazards. Inspect and Clean Chimney and Fireplace: Schedule a professional chimney sweep to remove creosote buildup and ensure safe operation of your fireplace. Clean the fireplace and inspect the chimney cap for damage. Check for Indoor Air Quality: Change HVAC filters and consider using air purifiers or dehumidifiers to improve indoor air quality and create a healthier living environment for you and your family. Inspect Flooring: Look for signs of wear and tear, water damage, or loose tiles on your floors. Repair or replace damaged flooring to maintain safety and aesthetics throughout your home. Review Home Security Measures: Test alarms and security systems to ensure they are functioning properly. Replace batteries in doorbell cameras and motion sensors, and consider upgrading security features if necessary to protect your home and loved ones. By following this comprehensive spring home maintenance checklist, you can ensure that your property remains in excellent condition, enhance its value, and create a safe and comfortable living environment for you and your family. Happy spring cleaning!! Written by: David Kafitz & George SchodowskiRealtors - The New Horizons Team @ EXIT Realty New Horizons

Cold Weather Home Care As the winter season approaches, it's essential to prepare your home for the colder months. Taking the time to winterize your home can help prevent costly repairs and ensure a comfortable living environment during the chilly winter days. In this blog post, we will discuss some important things to do to prepare your house for the upcoming cold weather. 1. Inspect and Seal Windows and Doors: One of the most effective ways to keep your home warm during winter is to check for any gaps or cracks around windows and doors. Use weatherstripping or caulking to seal these areas, preventing drafts and heat loss. This simple task can make a significant difference in your home's energy efficiency and reduce your heating costs. 2. Check and Insulate Pipes: Frozen pipes can cause significant damage to your home, leading to burst pipes and costly repairs. To prevent this, ensure that all pipes, especially those located in unheated areas such as attics and basements, are adequately insulated. Additionally, letting faucets drip during extremely cold nights can help prevent freezing. 3. Clean and Inspect the Fireplace: If your home has a fireplace, it's crucial to have it cleaned and inspected by a professional chimney sweep before using it during winter. Removing any debris or creosote buildup reduces the risk of a chimney fire. Also, make sure the damper is working correctly to prevent cold air from entering when the fireplace is not in use. 4. Service Your Heating System: Before the cold weather sets in, it's essential to have your heating system serviced by a qualified HVAC technician. A thorough inspection and maintenance of your furnace or heat pump can ensure reliable operation throughout the winter. Additionally, replacing the air filters will enhance indoor air quality and improve heating efficiency. 5. Prepare Your Outdoor Spaces: Don't forget to pay attention to your outdoor spaces as well. Winterize your garden by trimming trees and removing dead branches that could potentially fall during a storm. Drain and store garden hoses, shut off exterior water sources, and cover outdoor furniture to protect them from the harsh weather. 6. Stock Up on Winter Essentials: Ensure you have an adequate supply of winter essentials like rock salt or ice melt to keep walkways and driveways safe. Stock up on firewood if you have a fireplace or invest in a generator if you frequently experience power outages in your area. 7. Consider a Programmable Thermostat: Investing in a programmable thermostat can help regulate your home's temperature efficiently. By setting lower temperatures when you're away or asleep, you can save on heating costs without sacrificing comfort. Many modern thermostats can be controlled remotely through smartphone apps, adding convenience and energy savings. 8. Review Your Home Insurance Policy: Lastly, review your home insurance policy to ensure you have adequate coverage during the winter months. In colder areas, policies may have specific provisions for frozen pipe damage or ice dam formation. Make sure you understand your policy and update it if necessary. By taking the necessary steps to prepare your home for the cold weather, you can enjoy a cozy and worry-free winter season. Remember, proper maintenance and care can go a long way in protecting your investment and ensuring a comfortable living space for you and your family. Stay warm!