When it comes to preparing for a hurricane, there are many steps homeowners can take to protect their property. One important consideration is whether to keep interior doors open or closed during the storm. While there are valid arguments for both options, in this article we will be discussing the benefits and drawbacks of keeping interior doors open during a hurricane.Interior Doors Open During Hurricane
The first and most obvious reason to keep interior doors open during a hurricane is for air flow. Hurricanes are known for their strong winds and heavy rain, which can put pressure on the exterior of a home. By keeping interior doors open, the air can circulate throughout the house and reduce the risk of pressure buildup. This can help to prevent structural damage and keep the home intact. Additionally, open interior doors can also help to equalize pressure inside the home. This can be especially beneficial for homes with large open spaces, as the pressure can build up more quickly in these areas. By allowing air to flow freely, the pressure can be reduced and the risk of damage decreased.1. Open Interior Doors
If you have pets in your home, it is important to consider their safety during a hurricane. By keeping interior doors open, your pets can move freely and find a safe place to hide during the storm. This can help to reduce their stress and prevent them from getting injured or escaping during the chaos. However, it is important to make sure your pets are secured in a safe area before the storm hits. If you have a basement or interior room that you plan to use as a shelter, be sure to bring your pets with you and close the door behind you. This will help to keep them safe and prevent them from running outside during the storm.2. Keep Pets Safe
Another benefit of keeping interior doors open during a hurricane is that it can help to prevent damage to the doors themselves. Strong winds can easily blow off doors that are closed, causing them to become damaged or even detached from their hinges. By keeping doors open, the wind can pass through and reduce the risk of damage. However, this does not mean that open doors are completely safe from damage. In fact, if the wind is strong enough, it can still cause damage to the doors. This is why it is important to reinforce your doors with hurricane shutters or plywood to provide extra protection.3. Protect the Doors Themselves
Open interior doors can also help to prevent mold growth in your home. Hurricanes often bring high levels of humidity and moisture, which can create the perfect environment for mold to grow. By allowing air to circulate, you can reduce the humidity levels and prevent mold from taking hold in your home. In addition to keeping interior doors open, it is also important to inspect your home for any areas where water can enter. This can include cracks in the foundation, leaks in the roof, or damaged windows. By fixing these issues, you can further prevent mold growth and protect your home.4. Prevent Mold Growth
If you have a generator, keeping interior doors open during a hurricane can help to distribute the power more evenly throughout your home. By allowing the air to flow, you can prevent the power from overloading in one area and causing damage. This can also help to keep your home cooler and more comfortable during a power outage. However, it is important to exercise caution when using a generator during a hurricane. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and never use a generator indoors or in an enclosed space, as this can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.5. Make Use of a Generator
If you experience a power outage during a hurricane, keeping interior doors open can make it easier to move around your home. Closed doors can make the house feel darker and more cramped, especially if there are no windows in the room. By keeping doors open, you can allow more light to enter and improve visibility. However, this is not to say that closed doors are always a bad thing during a power outage. If you have young children or elderly individuals in your home, it may be safer to keep doors closed to prevent them from wandering into dangerous areas or getting injured.6. Easier Movement During Power Outages
In the event of an emergency evacuation, open interior doors can make it easier to move around your home and gather your belongings. This can be especially beneficial for individuals with mobility issues, as it can reduce the risk of falls and injuries. It can also help to save time and prevent panic during a stressful situation. However, it is important to note that in some cases, closed interior doors may actually be safer during an emergency evacuation. For example, if there is a fire in your home, closing doors can help to prevent the spread of smoke and flames.7. Easier Access for Evacuation
When it comes to deciding whether to keep interior doors open or closed during a hurricane, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. It ultimately depends on the individual circumstances and features of your home. However, by considering the factors discussed in this article, you can make an informed decision that will help to protect your home and your loved ones during a hurricane.Conclusion