Storm Season Preparedness: How to Protect Your Entire Yard Before Severe Weather Hits

Storm season in the Northeast can be unpredictable. One moment the skies are calm, and the next strong winds, heavy rain, or ice can cause significant damage to your property. While you cannot control the weather, you can take proactive steps to reduce risks and protect your home’s exterior. Your yard is more than just landscaping. It is part of your home’s value and safety. From trees and shrubs to fences, sheds, and outdoor furniture, preparing your entire yard ahead of time can save you money, prevent injuries, and help you recover faster after a storm. Partnering with a tree service Albany, NY company you can count on is a smart way to ensure that your property is ready for whatever the weather brings.

Here are practical tips to get your property storm-ready.

1. Inspect and Maintain Trees and Shrubs

Trees and large shrubs are often the first things damaged in storms, but regular care can reduce the danger. A certified arborist can spot weaknesses such as:

• Cracks or splits in trunks and major limbs
• Dead or hanging branches
• Decay or internal rot
• Weak branch attachments
• Shallow or damaged roots

If it has been more than a couple of years since your last inspection or if you have large trees near your home, it is smart to get an expert opinion from a trusted tree service Albany, NY provider.

Regular pruning helps improve airflow, reduce limb weight, and keep branches from damaging your home, fence, or power lines. Removing dead or compromised trees entirely may be necessary if they pose a high risk.

2. Secure Outdoor Furniture and Loose Items

High winds can turn unsecured objects into dangerous projectiles. Before storm season begins:

• Store patio furniture, umbrellas, and cushions indoors or in a shed
• Anchor grills and heavy planters that cannot be moved
• Remove yard tools, toys, and sports equipment from open areas
• Keep firewood piles away from structures and trees

By securing loose items, you protect both your yard and your neighbors’ properties.

3. Check and Protect Fences, Sheds, and Garden Structures

Fences, sheds, pergolas, and playsets can take a beating in strong winds. A quick inspection and repair now can prevent costly replacements later.

To reduce storm damage:

• Repair loose boards, hinges, or panels
• Reinforce posts with concrete if they are wobbly
• Lock or secure shed doors so they do not blow open
• Consider adding storm straps to lightweight structures

4. Clear Gutters, Drains, and Water Pathways

Heavy rain can overwhelm drainage systems, causing flooding and soil erosion. Good drainage helps protect your home, landscape, and tree roots from water-related damage.

Prepare by:

• Cleaning gutters and downspouts to prevent water overflow
• Checking that water flows away from your foundation
• Removing leaves, sticks, and debris from yard drains
• Ensuring sump pumps are working if you have them

5. Protect Gardens and Plant Beds

Your flowers, vegetable gardens, and landscaped beds can also be affected by storms. These small steps can help your plants recover more quickly after severe weather.

To minimize damage:

• Stake tall or top-heavy plants for stability
• Use mulch to prevent soil erosion
• Install windbreaks or temporary covers for delicate plants
• Harvest ripe fruits and vegetables ahead of major storms

6. Have an Emergency Plan for Yard Damage

Even with preparation, storms can still cause damage. Knowing who to call and what to do afterward can make recovery faster. Having a plan in place means less stress when every minute counts.

Keep contact information for:

• A local emergency tree removal service
• A fence or shed repair contractor
• Your insurance company’s claims department

Final Thoughts

Storm season does not have to catch you off guard. By preparing your entire yard, from trees and fences to gardens and outdoor furniture, you can significantly reduce your risk of costly damage and dangerous debris. A combination of inspections, secure storage, and proactive maintenance is the key to keeping your property safe. Working with a tree service Albany, NY company you can count on ensures you have the right expertise to protect your landscaping, address potential hazards, and create a storm readiness plan that works for your home. Start preparing today so you are ready for whatever the weather brings.