Home Improvement News Bureau

Storm-ready Toolbox

Top tools to have on hand before a hurricane hits

MONEY PIT NEWS BUREAU –  Before the nation’s next serious hurricane barrels towards shore, homeowners across the country may be wise to take the time to think about assembling the key tools they’ll need in the event of a weather emergency.

According to Tom Kraeutler and Leslie Segrete, hosts of the nationally syndicated home improvement radio program The Money Pit, here’s what you’ll need for a storm-ready toolbox:

• HAMMER – Buy a 16 oz straight claw hammer.  Straight claws are better than curved claws as they can be used as a wrecking tool to pull damaged lumber apart.
• CROWBAR - If serious damage is done, it is an essential extraction tool that can even help save lives.
• BATTERY OPERATED POWER TOOLS – You’ll need a circular saw, drill with Phillips bit extension and reciprocating saw.  Keep these tools charged ahead of time in case the power goes out before the storm.  Ryobi sells an 18v combo kit through The Home Depot with many of these tools for under $170.
• STAPLE GUN AND PLASTIC SHEETING – Useful to slow down major leaks through windows or doors or to protect belongings if the rain gets inside.
• CAULK GUN W/ SILICONE CAULK – Also useful to stave off leaks.  Silicone can be applied even when the surface is wet.
• CHAIN SAW AND FRESH FUEL - Unless a stabilizer has been added, gasoline goes bad after just 30 days.  Keep 5 gallons fresh at all times.
• LEATHER GLOVES, SAFETY GLASSES AND DUST MASKS – Protect yourself from injury so you can protect your family.
• ASSORTMENT OF NAILS AND SCREWS - Double-headed scaffold nails with double-heads and case-hardened “drywall” screws are handy to have around as they can be easily pulled out after the storm.

For more information on how to protect your home in a storm including Kraeutler and Segrete’s “Top Ten Tips to Prevent Hurricane Damage”, visit The Money Pit’s web site at www.moneypit.com. 

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