The exterior of your home is constantly exposed to the elements, so it’s important to take measures to protect it from damage. Rain is one of the biggest threats to your home’s exterior, as it can cause everything from water damage to mold growth.
Here Are Some Tips To Help Keep Your Home’s Exterior In Top Condition During Rainy Weather:
Check the grading around your home
The first step to keeping your home safe from rain damage is to check the grading around your house. You want to ensure that the ground slopes away from your house, so water will run away from the foundation rather than toward it.
Look for any areas where the ground is higher next to your house than it is further away; these are called “high spots.” If you find any high spots, you’ll need to excavate them and fill them in so that they’re level with the rest of the ground.
Repair any cracks in your foundation
Another important step to preventing rain damage is to repair any cracks in your foundation. Even small cracks can let water seep into your basement or crawl space, so it’s important to fix them as soon as you notice them. You can usually do this with a little caulk or concrete sealer, but if the cracks are large, you may need to hire a professional.
Install gutters and downspouts
One of the best ways to protect your home from rain damage is to install gutters and downspouts. Gutters catch rainwater as it falls off your roof and channel it away from your house; downspouts carry the water even further away. This helps prevent water from pooling around your foundation, which can lead to cracking and other damage. Just make sure to arrange for gutter cleaning by a professional at least twice a month.
Inspect your roof regularly
Another important part of preventing rain damage is to inspect your roof regularly. Look for any missing or damaged shingles and repair or replace them as necessary. You should also ensure that your gutters are clean and free of debris so they can catch and channel away as much water as possible. In addition, trim any tree branches that are close to your roof, as these can fall and damage the shingles during a storm.
Seal any cracks or gaps
Another way to prevent rainwater from entering your home is to seal any cracks or gaps in the exterior walls, foundation, or roof. You can use caulk or weatherstripping to fill in small gaps, while larger ones may need to be sealed with expanding foam insulation or patching compound. In addition, make sure that your windows and doors are properly sealed and caulked. By taking these measures, you can help keep your home dry and free of water damage.
Have your chimney inspected and cleaned
If you have a fireplace, it’s important to have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly. Chimneys can easily become blocked with soot and debris, which can cause rainwater to back up into your house. This can lead to serious damage, so keeping your chimney clean and clear is important.
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