How to Prepare for Extreme Weather: Rain

Heavy rains are a threat to your home. It can lead to floods and can cause massive damage. A combination of fast winds, long-lasting rain, and other forces can really cause trouble. But, you can always take some measures in order to save yourself from the damage caused by extreme weather.

Here are some tips from experts to prep your home for this extreme weather.

Preparing Your Home’s Exteriors

Before the rainstorm hits, it is vital to begin your outside preparation. This is a prompt check of the essential parts of your home that will keep the rainfall away. Check these points below:

1. Examine the Roof: It is essential to ensure that the roof is in good condition and there are no pitfalls to let the water seep in. Examine the roof for sagging edges, cracked chimneys, missing tiles, or broken ceilings. If you find any of these, call experts to fix them right away.
2. Check the Eaves and Gutters Thoroughly: Eaves and gutters are important to consider when looking for effective rain prevention methods. If the gutters are not appropriately cleared, heavy rains may trouble you. Also, ensure that the downspouts are pointing away from the foundation. Remember even the minimal seepage can cause a problem.
3. Store your Valuable Items: Keep in mind to store the valuable items that are outside your home. Cover your patio, barbecues or garden tools that can get damaged during heavy rains. You can store them in a waterproof shed to prevent them from rusting or damaging.

Preparing Your Home’s Interiors

Once you are done with inspecting the exteriors of your home, it’s time to consider the interiors. Yes, you read it right! They may also get affected by the heavy rainfall.

1. Inspect Your Sump Pump: If you have a sump pump, it is vital to inspect it and do a few quick tests. To ensure your sump pump is working, do not forget to carry a battery generator in case the power goes out.
2. Clean up the Windows and Doors: In case of heavy rainfall, move away any furniture or electronics that are close to the windows and doors. Water may enter and damage them. Also, don’t forget to remove your valuables from the basement since it is the most prone area during heavy rainfall.
3. Be Careful of Your Electrical and Gas Lines: The most important area to think about is electrical and gas lines. They are mostly overlooked and hence can cause a huge damage to the house during the rains. Make sure to turn off the electrical panel in order to prevent potential electrocution if water makes its way into the wall outlets, electronics or gas lines.
4. An Emergency Kit: Preparing an emergency kit is as viable as looking for leaks. Make sure your cell phones are charged, flashlights have new batteries in them, store some important medicines and dry clothes in case of emergency.

Proper Insurance Coverage

Water damage is one of the most involved elements of many homeowners’ plans and is now accountable for more home insurance claims than any other exposure. With multiple coverage options such as overland water coverage, sewer back up coverage, groundwater coverage, and complete water protection it can be hard to differentiate and determine which are essential for you. There are many insurance agents who can help you in understanding the process and insurance in a better way. Make sure you have the proper protection for your home before the heavy rainfall occurs.

If you experience any damage during or after heavy rains, call experts at Dry Effect to help with the restoration process.