This week, we’re helping a Louisiana family get their home back in shape after Hurricane Zeta caused some major damage. We’re also getting their home prepared for the 2021 hurricane season.

The house belongs to David and Ruby LeBlanc of Cut Off, Louisiana.


In wind uplift tests, metal roofs earn a 140-mph wind rating, according to the Metal Roofing Alliance, and some can withstand gusts up to 180 mph. (3 Echoes Content Studio)

Replacing the Mismatched Roof

The first project is replacing the roof. David and Ruby did their fair share of research and chose the perfect roof for their home from the Metal Roofing Alliance.

When the roofers arrive, they start working by trim around the eaves and installing underlayment over the old shingles to prepare for the installation of the new metal roof.


A hurricane damaged the old French doors, so we replace them with new ones. (3 Echoes Content Studio)

Installing New French Doors

Then it’s time for me and David to replace the old French doors with new ones.

The old French doors were damaged in the last hurricane as the seal around the glass frame was compromised, allowing humidity between the glass panes. 

We start by removing the trim around the door and then removing the old doors. Once the new French doors are installed, we properly insulate the space around the door and finish it out by sealing in the new doors.


These reusable storm panels will keep the windows safe during future storms. (3 Echoes Content Studio)

Creating Storm Panels for the Windows

To create the reusable storm panels, we start by measuring the windows they will cover.

Next, we cut half-inch plywood to size and drill quarter-inch mounting holes into the four corners of each panel and midway across the longest span.

To reduce any warping, we are also painting these panels. Once they are dry, we put them in place temporarily so we can mark the location of the mounting holes on the window trim.

At each of these marks, we drill a half-inch diameter hole. This is so we can install the flush-mount threaded fastener anchors.


This low-maintenance landscape will hold up well during hurricanes. (3 Echoes Content Studio)

Finish the Landscaping

There’s one more project to tackle for this couple. After Hurricane Zeta rolled through, the LeBlancs’ landscape was destroyed.

To bring some life back into the front yard, we replaced their crape myrtle trees. 

Now, this home down by the bayou is beautiful and protected from any storms that may come its way. 

Danny Lipford and Chelsea Lipford Wolf pose with David and Ruby LeBlanc in front of their now hurricane-proof home. (3 Echoes Content Studio)

Other Tips from this Episode

Today's Homeowner Simple Solutions host Joe Truini cuts a piece of woodSimple Solutions
How to Protect Woodworking Projects from Scuffs
Best New Products
Under-Cabinet Lighting Made Easy with EcoSmart Tape Lighting
Louisiana home, seen with hurricane shuttersWatch & Learn
How to Build Reusable Hurricane Panels

Further Reading

Editorial Contributors
avatar for Danny Lipford

Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

Learn More