There is no sight more beautiful and a day more peaceful than when it rains in extreme summers, but things can get ugly when rains get a bit aggressive and start pounding on the structure of our homes. Therefore, we must make sure that our lovingly built homes are tuned efficiently to cope with the aggression of pouring rains, otherwise consequences can be catastrophic.
There is no doubt that designing your homes to cater with these calamities is extremely important, but do not underestimate the importance of maintenance and continuous inspection. Because even well designed homes paint a grim picture if not maintained properly.
Here, we have compiled a list of necessary checks that you must practice to shield your homes from violent rains.
- Check your Roof:
The first component of your house that rain touches is the roof, which means that it will be hit with the most velocity, therefore it is paramount to check that its shingles are intact. If the roof of your house is accessible, inspect it yourself to see if there is any wear and tear because it can cause cracks and debilitate the structure of roof.
Hence, make sure that there does not exist any gaps within the fitting so that water does not seep into the fitting and ruin your home. One way to do it is to use First Class Slate so that your home remains impenetrable to rainwater.
- Check the basement:
Basement is an another vulnerable spot of your home, therefore check every nook and corner of it as well as walls to see if there are any cracks starting to appear. If your basement is carpeted, you can look for possible moisture in the carpet.
You can also get an idea about the condition of your basement by the way it smells because it can start to smell moldy in humid environment. Therefore, if there exists any such issue in your basement, immediately contact a professional for thorough inspection.
Always keep a sump pump in your home so that you can immediately pump out water in case of flooding.
- Check your drainage system:
Make sure that the drainage system in your home is fully functional and it includes both gutters and downspouts. Check routinely that your gutters and downspouts are not clogged with debris, dirt, leaves and twigs.
Because, a dysfunctional drainage system will not be able to divert the water away from the base structure of your home, which can cause immense damage to your flooring and the foundation of your home. Also ensure that the downspouts are at least sixty inches away from the base of your home, so that bubbling water in extreme rains do not come into contact with it.
- Check air vents
Another way rain can enter your home is through air vents like in windows and door, where there may exist installation gaps. Therefore, make sure that your windows and doors are properly sealed with a good quality sealant, and for other air vents use plastic sheets to cover them.
- Check electrical appliance to safety
Water and electricity form a lethal combination, therefore ensure that during extreme rains, electrical appliances are stored away from water.