Summer typically brings a lot of joy to households, with its promise of warm weather, outdoor activities and city festivals. Unfortunately, it also comes with unexpected rainstorms and occasional violent winds. As a homeowner, preparing your home to withstand summer showers is essential to prevent water damage and maintain the integrity of your property. Our team at Delta Waterproofing is thus providing you a comprehensive checklist to help you ensure your home is ready for the rainy days this summer:
1. Inspect Your Roof
- Check for Leaks: Inspect your roof for any signs of damage or leaks. Look for missing or damaged shingles, cracked flashing around chimneys or vents, and any areas where water could potentially seep through and cause damages.
- Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Clear debris such as leaves, twigs, and dirt from gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and damage your home’s foundation.
2. Examine Windows and Doors
- Seal Cracks and Gaps: Inspect window frames and door seals for cracks or gaps where water could infiltrate your property. Caulk or weatherstrip these areas as needed to prevent water intrusion during heavy rain.
3. Check Your Basement and Foundation
- Inspect for Cracks: Look for any cracks in your basement walls or foundation. Seal these foundation cracks with epoxy or waterproof sealant to prevent water from seeping into your basement. You can also contact a professional for serious damage and more permanent fixtures.
4. Maintain Your Sump Pump
- Test Your Sump Pump: Ensure your sump pump is in good working condition by testing it before the rainy season begins. Pour water into the sump pit to see if the pump activates and discharges water properly. If you do not already have one, we strongly suggest you consider installing a sump pump. It is particularly useful if you are worried about basement flooding.
5. Inspect Exterior Walls
- Check Siding and Paint: Inspect your home’s exterior siding and paint for any signs of damage or wear. Repair or replace damaged siding, and touch up any areas where paint is peeling to prevent moisture from penetrating your home’s walls.
6. Evaluate Landscaping
- Trim Trees and Shrubs: Trim back tree branches and shrubs that are close to your home. During storms, strong winds can cause branches to break and potentially damage your roof or windows.
- Consider Drainage Solutions: If you notice pooling water near your home after rain , consider landscaping solutions such as French drains or swales to redirect water away from your foundation. Water should never be pooling towards the foundation. Make sure that the ground around your foundation should slope away from the house to encourage water to flow away from the building and prevent flooding.
7. Check Outdoor Utilities
- Inspect Outdoor Faucets: Ensure outdoor faucets are not dripping or leaking. Replace worn washers or seals to prevent water from seeping into your home’s foundation.
8. Prepare an Emergency Plan
- Create a Flood Preparedness Kit: Assemble an emergency kit that includes essentials such as a flashlight, batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food, and a first aid kit. Store it in an easily accessible location in case of power outages or flooding.
- Have a Plan: Develop an emergency plan with your family so everyone knows what to do in case of severe weather or flooding.
9. Review Insurance Coverage
- Understand Your Policy: Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to understand what is covered in case of water damage from storms or floods. Consider purchasing flood insurance if you live in an area prone to flooding.
10. Stay Informed
- Monitor Weather Alerts: Stay informed about weather forecasts and warnings in your area. Being aware of impending storms allows you to take proactive measures to protect your home.
11. Monitor Humidity and Check for Mold
- Monitor Indoor Humidity: Keep an eye on the humidity levels inside your home using a hygrometer. Ideally, indoor humidity should be kept between 30-50% to prevent mold growth.
- Check for Mold After a Storm: After heavy rain or a storm, inspect your home for any signs of mold, especially in areas that are prone to moisture like basements, attics, and bathrooms. Look for visible mold, musty odors, and water stains. If you find mold, address it immediately by cleaning small areas with a mixture of water and detergent, or contact a professional for mold removal on a larger scale.
By following this summer waterproofing checklist, you can safeguard your home against the potential damage caused by summer storms and ensure a safe and comfortable summer season for you and your family. Prevention and preparation go a long way when it comes to minimizing risks and maintaining the value of your home over time. Contact a professional like Delta Waterproofing to learn more about how you can safely waterproof your home this summer.