Cole Harris
Year after year, rains have damaged homes and infrastructures, deadly floods, and landslides. While they can’t be entirely avoided, preventive measures can minimize their harmful effects. Before the start of monsoon season, make sure to check these parts in your house so that you can avoid or reduce damage:
- Sewer Line
No one thinks about their sewers until they’ve caused some problems. Before your house is flooded or you experience weak water pressure in the shower, check your sewer lines. In cases of clogging or blocking, you can hire a professional for a trenchless sewer repair. It’s much less messy than the traditional method since your lawn won’t be dug up. You can prevent potential clogging by installing filters, cleaning regularly, and planting right. Since trees are attracted to water, roots can grow into the line and block the connection.
- Roof
To get on top of any potential water damage, you must start at the top. Get a ladder and take a look at your shingles. Broken or missing shingles lead to leaks, stains, and mold. Mold is especially dangerous for household members with allergies or immune suppression. You can fix the roof yourself. HGTV recommends using a nail gun and plywood. You can also get an expert to fix the roof in case of extensive damage and to avoid violations of building codes.
- Gutter
Gutters may seem inconsequential, but it can prevent foundation and wall damage. But it needs help in the form of maintenance to do its job correctly. One of the precautions you can do is to clean it regularly. Leaves and debris can block the passageway and cause the gutter to sag. You should also repair any leaks you spot. It’s best to replace old gutter spikes and ferrules occasionally. Minor updates lead to a longer lifespan, which can save you thousands of dollars.
- Downspouts
Your clean gutters won’t matter if your downspouts are clogged. Like blocked gutters, clogged downspouts can cause serious problems to your house’s structure. You can test if you’re downspout is directing water away from your home by using water. Get a hose and let water flow through the downspout. If the water is not running correctly, you can use a drain snake to remove any obstructions inside it.
- Basement
Besides damaging your home, flooded basements can lead to health problems, higher insurance rates, and lower property value. Make sure there aren’t any leaks in your walls or windows by using aluminum foil. Tape the foil to suspected problem spots and check it after a few days. If you find moisture on the side of the foil taped to the wall, then there’s a leak. If you can’t find the sources of leaks, it’s best to consult the services of a professional.
Natural events like heavy rains are unavoidable. But on the bright side, there are precautionary measures you can take so that you can limit issues. The right preparation can mean the difference between a safe and sturdy home and thousands of dollars in damages.
Meta Title: Before the Storm: Areas to Check to Minimize Water Damage
Meta Description: Rains may be inevitable, but some problems it causes are preventable. Find out the areas at home to check to avoid costly and extensive damages.
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