Heavy downpours during a rainstorm may put your home at risk from water damage if you do not prepare it ahead of time. From flooded basements to leaked roofs and issues with foundation, there is every danger, but with the proper steps at preparation, you are sure to keep your home safe and dry. Here’s how you can prepare to prevent water damage during a heavy rainstorm.
Proactive care is a value that BlueShield Water Damage Restoration knows all too well. Whenever professional help is needed for water damage restoration, and prevention, we stand ready to help.
Understanding Water Damage by Heavy Rain
Water damage from heavy rains comes in various forms – from small annoyances to monumental disasters. One needs to understand the types of damage that can result and how to prevent them.
Flooding inside Basements and ground floors: It can happen that because of heavy rains, water flooding enters through cracks in the foundation or flooded streets or because of clogged gutters. Basements are prone since they are below ground level.
Leaks from the Roof and water stains on the Ceiling: Roofs will have broken points over time and water will leak into it causing ceiling leaks. They cause stains on the ceiling and eventually structural damage.
Soiling of soil at foundation: Heavy rain is known to cause accelerated soil erosion at the foundation, which can weaken the structure and facilitate the development of cracks and settlement problems.
Knowing these risks can help take steps to minimize the damage and save your home.
Steps to prevent water damage during heavy rain
1. Inspect and maintain your roof
The roof is your first line of protection against the rain, so it’s vital to keep it in good condition.
- Damaged Shingles: Look for missing or cracked shingles on your roof and address them promptly. Even a small gap may be the source of significant leaks during a storm.
- Clear Gutters and Downspouts: One of the major causes of water damage is clogged gutters. Gutters could prevent rainwater from flowing out of the house by overflowing over the gutter, thereby damaging the foundation and exterior walls. Ensure that leaves, twigs, and other debris are cleaned from your gutters.
- Proper Sealing Around Vents and Chimneys: Check the seals around roof vents, chimneys, and skylights. Make sure these areas are sealed properly so that water does not find its way in.
2. Maintain Your Gutters and Drainage System
Gutters play a crucial role in guiding rainwater away from your home’s foundation. If not kept up with, it can lead to flooding and water damage.
- Clean Your Gutters: Leaves and debris can clog gutters, letting water overflow. Make sure to clean out your gutters at least twice each year, or more often if you have many trees in your yard.
- Install Gutter Guards: Installing gutter guards will prevent debris from collecting in your gutters and downspouts, which reduces maintenance needs.
- Ensure Proper Downspout Direction: Ensure that downspouts direct water at least 6-10 feet away from your home’s foundation to prevent pooling around the base of your home.
3. Waterproof Your Basement
Basements are particularly prone to water damage, especially during heavy rain. Waterproofing can help keep your basement dry and protect your home’s foundation.
- Water sealant: Apply waterproof sealant to your basement walls and floors, which is going to prevent moisture from entering into your place. A good sealant creates a moist-proof barrier.
- Sump pump: This pump sucks off the water and keeps it far away from your basement. If the region that your house is located in usually gets flooded, then installing a sump pump can help keep flood water away from your house.
Consider having a backup power source for your sump pump; in the event of a loss, the water damage that occurs in your basement can be minimal with the operation of your sump pump.
4. Inspect and Improve Landscaping
Landscaping is not just merely making your house visually beautiful but also has a role to play in preventing water damage to your home.
- Grade Your Lawn: Make sure the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation. This way, water flows away from your house, away from potential basement flooding and foundation issues.
- Avoid Planting Near the Foundation: Planting large trees and shrubs close to the foundation might make it more susceptible to water damage. Their roots may break into the foundation and create cracks, letting water inside.
- Use Gravel and Plants to Absorb Excess Water: Make use of landscaping materials like gravel or ground covers that can absorb water, thereby reducing runoff during heavy rain.
5. Seal Windows and Doors
Water is prone to entering your home through unsealed windows and doors especially during heavy rainstorms. Ensure that those openings are well sealed.
- Check for Cracks and Gaps: Check your windows and doors for any cracks or gaps which could be an entry point for the rainwater. These can be sealed using caulking or weatherstripping.
- Add Weatherstripping: Weatherstripping installed around doors and windows can provide additional protection from water infiltration.
6. Flood Barriers
Flood barriers will add yet another protection level against water entering your house.
- Use Sandbags or Water-Activated Barriers: Use sandbags or water-activated barriers for areas vulnerable to flooding. This will offer a temporary barrier to prevent water from flowing into your homes.
- Consider Permanent Flood Barriers: Although not mandatory, permanent flood barriers may be the solution when installed in a flood-prone area. You can ensure that water does not enter your home during heavy rainfall by purchasing permanent flood barriers.
7. Check Plumbing and Drains
A clogged drain or broken pipe can exacerbate water damage during a heavy rainstorm.
- Inspect Plumbing for Leaks: Check for leaks in your plumbing system, including pipes, faucets, and hoses. Even a small leak can worsen under heavy rainfall.
- Test Your Drains: Ensure that your drains are functioning correctly and can handle large amounts of water. If your drains are clogged, they could cause backups, contributing to water damage.
8. Readying Emergency Tools
Preparation of necessary tools will assist you with quickly reacting to water damage from a storm.
- Wet/Dry Vacuum: Keep a wet/dry vacuum in your home in case it is necessary to pull all the water you possibly can out of your house.
- Dehumidifiers and Mop: A dehumidifier to knock the moisture down, then a mop to clean up whatever water is left.
Emergency Kit:Prepare an emergency kit that includes flashlights, batteries, and spare clothes so that if a storm knocks out the power, you can remain comfortable.
Signs of Potential Water Damage to Watch For
Even with preventative measures, it’s important to remain vigilant and look for signs of water damage. Some early indicators include:
- Water Pooling Around the Foundation: This can be a symptom of poor grading or clogged gutters, which are both penetrations that can allow water to infiltrate.
- Dripping Ceilings or Water Stains: These are symptoms of water leaking into your roof or ceiling, which could lead to structural damage
- Musty Odors: Damp, musty odors in basements or crawl spaces are often symptoms of excess moisture, which invites the growth of mold and related problems.
Deterioration Cracks in Walls or Foundation Cracks in your house walls or foundation can lead to water infiltration, weakening the structural integrity of your house.
How BlueShield Water Damage Restoration Can Help
At BlueShield Water Damage Restoration, we offer a range of services to help you prevent and manage water damage. From roof inspections and waterproofing solutions to emergency response teams available 24/7, we are here to ensure your home remains safe and dry during heavy rainstorms. Contact us today for a professional assessment and protection plan tailored to your home’s specific needs.
Conclusion:
Preventing water damage from heavy rain would need proactive steps to protect your house. Maintenance of your roof, gutters, landscaping, and plumbing systems can help mitigate the risk of damage. Always be prepared with emergency equipment and consider installing a flood barrier to add protection. In case you need help or expert advice, BlueShield Water Damage Restoration is always there, to call for managing risks in water damage and securing your house.
Peace of mind is all yours in understanding that your home is ready for even the heaviest rainfall by taking these steps.