Prepare Your Home for the Next Rainy Season

Prepare Your Home for the Next Rainy Season

Apart from the winter precipitation, most parts of the US experience some rain during summer and lots of it during spring. Of late, the weather has been unpredictable. Therefore, it is likely that it will rain longer and heavier. Leakage and flooding is a real danger to many homes especially if those in low-lying flat areas. It is important to get your home ready for rain across various seasons. Check on the areas listed below to keep your home ready for some precipitation.

Check for Any Signs of a Leak

A small leak on the roof is what it takes to wreak havoc to the entire building. Even if the rain will not flood your attic or ceiling, it is likely to lead to the growth of mold and the collapse of the ceiling in due time. Scan your ceilings for marks of any peeling paint or dried out water. check for any loose shingles and look at walls for any marks of flowing water. Ensure these leak spots are repaired immediately.

Clean, Repair and Replace Gutters

Gutters catch the rain and direct it away from the foundation of your house. If it clogged with debris or ice, the chances are that there will be an overflow of the water and flooding at the foundation. Sweep the gutter downspouts clean of leaves, sticks, and stones. Check for any holes or joints that have come apart. If the gutters require replacement, consider replacing them with seamless rain gutters to cut down on breakdowns and cost of repairs

Clear up the Drains

Clean up the trenches and closed drains after every while. Blocked drains may cause floods when there are flash floods or hailstorms. If you are digging up new trenches, ensure that they have a slopping gradient for the water to flow effectively. On the other hand, if the yard floods with water, consider such measures as French drains, grading the yard to drain the runoff water. Create a dry creek to act as a reservoir for the run-off water.

Fix the Doors and Windows

windows

Water can enter your home through gaps on the windows and doors, especially during a storm. Therefore, you should make sure that they shut properly leaving no gaps at the hinges and the window wells. Gaps not only let in the water, but they also lower the heat efficiency of your home. In addition to repairing these areas, you may install some covers on window wells to protect them from likely damage from prolonged foul weather.

You Suffer Less Damage When You Prepare for Precipitation

Most home insurance companies do not cover water damage from defective roofs, windows, and doors. You may end up footing the entire bill. However, when you have taken steps to protect your home from leakage and flooding, you are less likely to experience lots of damage even in heavy rainfall. Check the most vulnerable areas such as roofs and windows for the likelihood of water seepage. Doing this also prevents additional problems such as heat inefficiency and the growth of mold.

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