April showers bring May flowers, but lately springtime has been a little more damp than usual. Across the United States, 2018 set a record setting year as one of the dampest years ever. The country as a whole had the fifth most precipitation in its entire history. Cities have been flooding, leaving families to evacuate their houses or live in less than safe conditions.
It’s normal to expect a little rain in the early spring months, but what if you get more than you bargained for? Even one torrential downpour can cause damage to a home, as crazy as it sounds, so it’s never hurts to know some easy-to-implement preventative measures. Below are 5 easy ways you can prepare for rain during this time of year.
1) Fix Leaks
Existing damage caused by rainfall may be sliding under the radar but getting worse by the day. In order to prevent water build up and mold, you must fix any leaks. These could occur in the foundation, door and window seals, or roof.
Where the leak is located will determine whether you can fix it yourself, or whether you should call in a professional. Caulk and weather stripping are available at any home improvement store for sealing gaps or cracks in poorly installed doors and windows, but it might be better to let a pro handle this if you’ve never tried it yourself.
For roofing and foundation issues, it is highly advised to call an expert. They will know the best and safest course of action for a potential impediment.
2) Check Drainage
Gutters can be a small and easy fix that prevents a larger problem from occurring. Properly routing your downspouts to drain away from the home is critical in such a rainy season. As the rain flows out of the guttering, it is possible for it to pool up around the foundation if it does not flow away from the home.
If your gutters are not periodically cleaned out that could cause problems, too. Any blockages can cease water flow, causing an overflow and back up which brings the risk of a flooded house.
3) Try a Sump Pump
If your residence is prone to flooded basements or large leaks, getting a sump pump would eliminate the stress of potential water damage. Excess rain drains into a basin, which is then pushed out by the sump pump and into a storm drain.
After installing the pump, make sure to inspect it every so often. There would be nothing worse than expecting it to work, just to find out it was broken and the house is flooded.
4) Invest in Restoration
If you are someone that has recently been affected by floods or extreme water damage, you may be in need of a serious cleaning. Drying out moisture-ridden areas, professional mold removal, and emergency repair are many services a restoration company will provide. They will halt any progressing damage and perform any necessary repairs.
Acting in a timely manner is crucial after significant water damage. Some homeowners may not realize that mold can grow in as little as 24 hours. Mold removal and water cleanup is not a task that should be put off or forgotten about. It is also dangerous and should only be attempted by professionals. Contacting a restoration specialist is a must after enduring a flood.
5) Perform Routine Checks
At the rate mold can grow, a problem can sneak up on you quickly. Mold is linked to numerous health conditions that could potentially risk your family’s wellbeing. Scheduling periodic mold checks will let you know if your house is sealed properly, and it will catch any mold early.
Disastrous rainfall can cause destruction, but it is possible to prevent the worst. Taking the proper steps to maintain a house’s exterior can reduce further harm and create a strong enough barrier that water can’t get through.