Each year, the beginning of storm season means taking precautionary actions to protect your home from any damages that may come with the unpredictable weather. During storm season, the focus is always on preparation and prevention in order to make sure your home is safe, secure and maintained.
A home maintenance routine should be created in order to ensure that your home is adequately prepared for Mother Nature’s extreme conditions. Taking proactive steps to secure the inside and outside of your home will protect your home from damages.
Before storm season begins, here are the essential steps to take in order to prepare your home for extreme weather:
Inspect the Roof
Inspecting the roof for any damages, holes, and soft or lifted areas that can be a sign of a previous storm-related issue is a crucial step before storm season. Look for individual shingles, ventilation, flashing and guttering that may need repair.
It’s important to fix any small issues before they become worse, and make sure the roof will protect your home against any water that comes through during rainstorms.
Clean the Gutters
Clean the gutters of leaves and debris to ensure that water flows correctly off your roof during heavy rain. Rainwater needs to flow away from your home, which is why having clean gutters are essential in order to prevent water from infiltrating the roof and damaging the foundation.
Check for any damages or missing pieces in the gutter system, and make any repairs or replacements before storm season begins. It’s also extremely important to keep the downspouts clear and away from your home’s foundation.
Clogged gutters as a result of buildup from leaves, branches, mud and sediment can cause external flooding, which can damage your home from the outside.
Secure the Doors & Windows
Making sure the doors and windows are properly secured is essential in order to prevent any unwanted breeches. Check the door frames and hinges, as well as the weatherstripping around doors, for any cracks or damages.
Check your window frames for any broken seals, as well as joints, corners and glass panes to make sure they are intact and properly secured. In addition, 50 mph winds are sufficient enough to break windows and cause serious damages to a home.
If you see any damages or signs of wear and tear, it’s best to either repair or replace them altogether before the storm season commences.
Post-Storm Season Home Maintenance
- Check foundation for cracks and damages
- Examine attic for leaks and structural damage
- Sweep and clean deck
- Inspect any outdoor furniture for damages
- Care for lawn, trees and vegetation
- Clean down any outdoor equipment
- Check the chimney for cracks and damages
- Replace any bulbs in outdoor lighting
Conclusion
Taking precautionary and preventative steps before and after storm season will make sure that your home and family are properly protected. Knowing how to properly inspect and maintain the interior and exterior of your home during storm season will prepare you for any weather patterns that arise.