Heavy rains, strong winds, and flooding are common during storm season and can cause extensive water damage to your home. It’s important to take steps to prepare your home to minimize damage and ensure your property’s safety. Here are some crucial tips for preventing water damage during storm season.

Examine Your Roof

Before storm season arrives, make sure your roof is ready to defend your home from damage. Inspect your roof for signs of wear and tear, including missing shingles, damaged flashing, and debris that might block drainage. Taking care of these issues early can help prevent leaks and water damage. If you’re unsure about the condition of your roof, it’s wise to hire a professional roofer for a detailed inspection and repairs.

Remove Debris from Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water to overflow and damage your home’s foundation. Clean them out regularly, particularly before storm season arrives. Remove all leaves, twigs, and debris to ensure that water flows freely. Make sure downspouts are directing water at least 3-4 feet away from the foundation to prevent pooling around your home.

Examine and Weatherproof Windows and Doors

To guard against water infiltration, check the seals around your windows and doors for gaps or cracks. Reapply caulk or weatherstripping to achieve a tight seal. Make sure windows and doors close properly and inspect for any damage. If needed, consider installing storm windows or adding extra weatherproofing to protect against severe weather.

Keep Your Sump Pump in Good Condition

Before a storm, it’s important to ensure your sump pump is in top condition. Test the pump by pouring water into the sump pit and checking that it activates and drains the water effectively. Clear any debris from the pit and check the pump’s power source. A battery backup system is also a good investment to ensure your sump pump keeps running during power outages.

Make Sure Drainage Around Your Home Is Effective

Effective drainage around your home prevents water from infiltrating your foundation. Ensure that the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation, and consider grading low spots or installing a French drain to redirect water. Make sure that existing drainage systems, like French drains or surface drains, are clean and working as they should.

Ensure Your Basement Is Protected

Basements are especially vulnerable to water damage during storms. To safeguard your basement, inspect for cracks in the walls or floor and seal them with a waterproof sealant. Installing a basement waterproofing system or vapor barrier can also help with moisture problems. Additionally, keep basement windows closed during storms to prevent water from getting in.

Examine and Repair Your Plumbing

Existing plumbing issues can be made worse by storms, leading to potential water damage. Inspect your plumbing for leaks or weaknesses, paying particular attention to pipes in the basement and under sinks. Check for any signs of corrosion or wear and repair or replace damaged pipes and fittings. Also, check the hose connections on your washing machine and dishwasher, and replace any worn or damaged hoses.

Anchor Your Outdoor Items

During strong storms, outdoor items like patio furniture, grills, and garden tools can become dangerous projectiles. To prevent these items from causing damage or becoming hazards, secure or store them before the storm arrives. Bring in lighter items and fasten down heavier ones.

Take Steps to Prepare for Flooding

For those living in flood-prone areas, it’s important to take extra measures to prepare for possible flooding. Have sandbags available to prevent floodwaters from entering your home. Elevate utilities and appliances, such as the furnace and electrical panel, to minimize damage from floods. Make an emergency plan for your family with evacuation routes and essential contact information.

Install a System to Detect Water Leaks

A water detection system can alert you to potential leaks and flooding before major damage happens. Set up water sensors in key areas such as under sinks, near appliances, and in the basement. These sensors can notify you through your phone or trigger alarms for prompt problem resolution.

Take Care of Your Landscaping Regularly

How you landscape your yard can impact water flow around your home. Maintain your lawn and avoid planting trees or shrubs too close to the foundation. Check that your irrigation systems are working well and not causing water to pool around your home.

Go Over Your Insurance Policy

As a final step, review your homeowner’s insurance policy to make sure you have the right coverage for storm-related water damage. Check the specifics of your flood insurance and other relevant coverages to ensure you are fully protected. Update your policy as needed to accommodate any recent changes to your home or insurance needs.

To get your home ready for storm season, you need to combine regular maintenance with proactive measures and emergency preparation. Inspecting your roof, cleaning out gutters, sealing windows and doors, and keeping up with plumbing maintenance are all crucial for preventing water damage. Additionally, securing outdoor possessions, preparing for possible flooding, and reviewing your insurance policy will help you handle storm risks effectively. Use these strategies to keep your home safe and be prepared for the storm season.