As winter’s chill gives way to our peak heat season, homeowners face the crucial task of transitioning their properties to face weather changes and warmer temperatures. After a particularly snowy winter, and a fairly wet spring, it’s important to know how to maintain your property to stop or prevent potential water damage, leaks and flooding.
Follow these simple tips to ensure your home is ready for summer so you can enjoy the season worry-free:
1. Clean eavestroughs
Eavestroughs are vital for protecting against water damage as they are the primary source for directing water from your roof away from your home. If eavestroughs are clogged, water will not drain properly, causing significant damage to your roof and the foundation of your home. To ensure proper drainage and prevent water from spilling into low areas, regularly clear eavestroughs of any leaves and debris that have accumulated. Installing a screen guard is another effective way to prevent leaves and debris from entering the eavestrough.
2. Clear downspouts
Check to see that your downspouts are clear of any blockages. This allows rainwater to flow freely away from your house. Also, consider adding a downspout extension to help direct water further away from your home’s foundation. By extending the reach of your downspouts, you can reduce the risk of water pooling around and help prevent basement flooding.
3. Seal those cracks
Walk around your home and identify cracks in the foundation that can occur from changing temperatures and wet seasons. Be sure to repair and seal cracks to prevent any further damage or leaks. If the cracks seem significant, call a professional. Fill lower spots around the house with topsoil to create a natural slope that directs water away from your home’s foundation. This can help prevent water from pooling near your home and causing further issues.
4. Check your sump pump
If you have one, a sump pump is typically located in a pit in the basement. It collects water and pumps it outside before it can reach the floor level of your home. If the sump pump isn’t working properly, it could cause your basement to flood. Test your sump pump by dumping a bucket of water into the sump. This will raise the float and if the pump turns on and the water drains, your system is functioning. Be sure to inspect for any debris and clean the pump inlet screen.
5. Ensure proper yard grading
Proper yard grading is essential for protecting your home from water intrusion and potential foundation damage. The ground around your home should be carefully sloped away from the foundation, ideally at a gradient of about 5% or approximately 6 inches for the first 10 feet, to effectively direct water away from the structure. This slope helps prevent water from pooling near the foundation, which can lead to seepage, basement flooding and long-term structural issues. To achieve and maintain proper grading, regularly inspect the landscape for any areas where the soil has settled or eroded, and add soil as needed to maintain the correct slope. Landscaping techniques such as swales or French drains can enhance drainage and protect your home from water-related problems.
6. Clean and repair window screens
Inspect window and door screens for tears or holes. Repairing or replacing damaged screens will keep insects out so you can let the fresh air in! Also, consider checking the condition of weather stripping and replace it if it’s worn or damaged to improve insulation and comfort.
7. Service HVAC systems
It’s a strong recommendation to schedule maintenance for your heating and cooling systems to ensure that they are running efficiently. Maintenance can include replacing air filters, having your air ducts cleaned and requesting a general inspection for your HVAC system: it’ll help ensure your home is ready for the warmer weather ahead.
8. Test outdoor faucets and irrigation systems
For irrigation systems, start by inspecting the main shut-off valve and backflow preventer to ensure proper function. Gradually turn on the system and walk through each zone, checking for broken sprinkler heads, leaks or uneven water distribution. Pay attention to any areas where water is pooling, as this could indicate a leak or improper drainage. If you notice any issues, such as damaged components or inconsistent water pressure, it’s important to address them promptly, either by making repairs yourself or hiring a professional. Regular maintenance and testing of outdoor faucets and irrigation systems not only help conserve water and reduce utility bills but also ensure that your lawn and garden receive adequate hydration throughout the growing season.
As winter fades and the warmer weather approaches, preparing your home for the change in seasons is crucial to prevent damage to your property and to enhance the safety, efficiency and beauty of your home — and these steps can help provide peace of mind all summer long.
Find a Location