Talk about good timing! A new Glass Doctor franchise has opened shop in Richmond – just in time to help homeowners prepare for Tropical Store Hanna.

Co-owner Cindy Winn offers the following advice to homeowners who rush to the lumber yard to buy plywood to secure glass doors and windows. “If the plywood isn’t installed correctly, the might damage the windows more than the high winds and rain could.”

Among the tips:

• Cut plywood to fit at least six inches around the window frame.

• When the hurricane watch is issued, secure the plywood using the clips or by drillingscrews 18 inches apart around the plywood perimeter.

• Make sure all doors and windows are properly sealed, caulked and/or weatherstripped.

• Cut weak and dead branches to at least five feet away from the house.

• Store lawn furniture and ornaments inside.

“We’re pleased to now offer same-day service to the Richmond area,” said Winn who, with her husband, owns a Glass Doctor Shop in Ruckersville.