There is a reason that baseball teams and tourists flock to Arizona each year during spring. The weather is just too great to pass up! The start of spring is a happy time for all. Warmer weather, sunny days, and a return to enjoying the outdoors whether away or just relaxing on a deck!
However, like the old line says "April Showers Bring May Flowers". It is no secret here in Arizona that we are accustomed to large rainstorms during spring and summer. Homeowners should be ready to protect their home against common spring water damage causes. In this article, we break down a few things you should check to prepare your home for potential water damage prevention.
1. Inspect Roof For Damage
During winter, the roof of your home takes up most of the consequences of snow, wind, and ice. Delaying the repair of a minor problem like holes or broken shingles can quickly turn into a bigger problem and eventually cause a major structural problem. Do your best in inspecting your roof. Make sure to look for missing or broken shingles, cracked caulking, and rusted flashings.
Spring can bring a lot of rain. Before it does, make sure that your home’s first line of defense against water damage is in good condition. If you are worried about your safety in inspecting your roof, use binoculars, or hire a contractor to climb onto the roof of your home.
2. Inspect And Clean Gutters
Similar to your roof, your gutters may have taken most of the consequences of winter. The heavyweight of ice and snow plus accumulated debris might have damaged your gutters. Thoroughly inspect your gutters and downspouts to make sure that they are not broken.
Springtime is the perfect time to clean your gutters. Remove any build-up debris, leaves, and branches, which can clog the system. Clogged gutters can open your home to water damage and by the time you notice it, the damage is already extensive.
3. Power Wash The Exterior
Just how much you want to clean the inside of your home, siding deck, patio, driveways, and other outside surfaces of your home also needs to be cleaned up. In winter, hail, wind, sleet, and snow can also damage your exterior. A power washer can effectively clean the outside of your home. While cleaning, make sure to inspect them for damage and repair them immediately.
4. Check Your Home’s Grade Drainage
It is greatly important to have good drainage so water can properly drain and move away from your home to prevent water seepage or foundation damage. Make sure that the grading of the ground below your downspouts is properly sloped. It is recommended that the grading should descend for at least one-half inch for every one foot it moves far away from your home.
5. Check The Caulking Around Your Windows and Door
Winter weather can cause the caulking and other seals around your windows and doors to crack and harden. Make sure to repair or replace them if needed. Cracked caulking and seals can cause water intrusion during rainy days.
6. Check Outside Faucets For Damage
Cold weather can cause your outside hose faucets to freeze. Make sure to check them for damage. To check it, turn on the water and put your thumb or finger on the opening. If you cannot stop the flow of the water, then it means you are dealing with a damaged pipe and may need immediate repair.
7. Inspect Your Home’s Foundation
Your home’s foundation might be the toughest part of your home. But even this can’t get away from the consequences of winter weather. Make sure to check the foundation of your home for any cracks. Also, check the areas around your foundation for any signs of compacted soil or cracks in the soil that can be prone to pooling. During the heavy rains, pooled water can put pressure on your foundation and cause it to crack. A cracked foundation can allow water penetration in your basement.
Contact The Water Damage Professionals Near You
Still, have questions or concerns about keeping your home water damage free this spring? Sunshine Restoration services Payson, Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, and the surrounding areas with homeowners' mold, water damage, and restoration needs.
Contact us today to speak with a licensed professional who is trained and prepared to help bring back the Sunshine to your home!
Contact us here.