Many people don’t think much about their homes when the weather is calm. However, when the rain pours and the wind picks up, every creak and drip gets your full attention. Storms often reveal the maintenance jobs we’ve been meaning to tackle for months. The best time to deal with them is before the rainy season rolls in. Here are some practical tips to help protect your house in advance.
Inspect Your Roof Before Storm Season
Your roof stands between your home and the heavy rain and wind during stormy season. Even a few missing shingles or loose flashing can lead to huge issues during the rains, from a leaky ceiling to water damage on your walls.
Before the season rolls along, inspect your roof for damage. Call a professional months in advance to do repairs. Choose a contractor who knows your local climate. For example, if you’re in east-central Minnesota, you likely deal with strong thunderstorms and snowy winters. Hiring residential roofing Minneapolis has to offer means working with someone who understands those local conditions and knows which materials to use. They’ll recommend repairs that help your home hold up against the weather.
Clean Out the Gutters
Your gutters are a key part of your home’s drainage system up on the roof. When they’re clogged by leaves and twigs, it keeps rainwater from flowing away efficiently from your home. Instead, that water spills over the sides, soaking your roof and foundation.
Remove the debris by hand or with a gutter scoop before the rain comes. Rinse everything down with a hose to double-check if the water flows freely through the downspouts. This keeps water away from your home when it rains.
Waterproof the Basement
If water does find its way inside your home, it will often show up in the basement. Moisture can cause damp walls, musty smells, and even puddles after a storm. Waterproof your basement by sealing foundation cracks with a sealant and regularly testing out your sump pump. If you keep boxes down there, store them on shelves or bring them upstairs before a big storm. This keeps your basement dry and ready for the wettest forecast.
Reinforce Your Garage Door
Your garage door is one of the biggest openings in your house. During strong winds, a weak door can flex or buckle under pressure, making it vulnerable to damage.
Check the hinges, rollers, and other hardware for signs of wear. Tighten any loose bolts, even if the door still technically works. Replace the door track if it’s bent or doesn’t let the door move as smoothly anymore. A stronger, smoother garage door gives your home one less weak spot when the weather’s rough.
Remove Weak Branches from Trees
Trees may add some shade when it rains, but the risk of damaged branches falling during a storm far outweighs that benefit. A single falling limb can damage your roof and break windows. If you see any trees growing too close to your home, take care of it before the rainy season. Prune small branches yourself or hire an arborist to remove the tree altogether.
Secure Outdoor Furniture
Loose furniture on your outdoor patio will have a hard time staying put once strong winds arrive. Chairs, umbrellas, and other outdoor decor can fly around, damaging your home and car. Before a big storm, move lightweight furniture into a sheltered space, like a shed or inside the house. Fold umbrellas and bring them indoors, too. For heavier furniture that’s difficult to move, use furniture straps or bungee cords to secure them in place.
Endnote
The steps above can change the way your home experiences storm season. Instead of worrying whether your roof can hold up or hoping your basement doesn’t flood, you can settle in cozily knowing you’ve done your part. Your home may still brave tons of rain and wind, but now, it’s equipped to handle the beating and stand strong.
