It is essential to keep your home dry to preserve its strength and enhance its habitability. The only way to do so is by regularly maintaining it. Homeowners who proactively address potential water drainage issues and basement waterproofing could save a lot of money and avoid the stress of extensive repair. Read on to learn how to keep your home dry around the calendar.
Inspect Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters and downspouts are essential for routing rainwater away from your house. You should inspect and clean them at least twice yearly, in the spring and the fall. If your gutters are full of debris, your most important asset can soon be at risk due to water overflow, which can damage your roof, siding, and foundation. Have downspouts direct water at least three to four feet away from your home’s foundation.
Maintain Your Roof
A roof is the first thing that detects leaks or water intrusion into your home. Check your roof for missing shingles, cracks, and wear. This can include things you might only sometimes consider, like leaves and other natural debris that trap moisture against your exterior walls. If you observe something wrong, do not think; hire a professional roofer to inspect the roof condition and mend it. Keeping your roof in good shape with regular maintenance can prolong its life and prevent leaks.
Check Windows and Doors
Moisture can easily find its way through cracks in the windows and around the doors. Check wear and damage to seals and weather stripping. Worn seals can lead to air leaks and water intrusion, so replacing them is excellent. For extra protection from the elements, consider using waterproof caulk around frames.
Ensure Proper Grading
The soil part of your yard should always have a slope to move water away from the home. The grade around your home and check for any required changes. Fill low spots that hold water with soil to form an adequate grade. Doing this simple thing can prevent water from sitting around your foundation and cause problems.
Install a Sump Pump
Consider a sump pump if you live in a high water table or clay soil area. A sump pump stops the yard from turning into a shallow kiddie pool and, if working effectively, will keep your finishers out of the basement. Check your sump pump regularly to ensure it works correctly, and clean the pump and basin to avoid clogs.
Check Plumbing and Appliances
Inspect under sinks and around the base of toilets for leaks to avoid costly damage. Check washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters for leaks or wear. This can take your entire kitchen and require a great deal of plumbing work on behalf of the professional, but almost as quickly, taking care of a little problem like this before it becomes an issue will save you time and money in water damage.
Regular Inspections
Inspect your home regularly for outdoor and indoor moisture problems. Look for water stains, mold, or peeling paint; these could be signs of leaks or excess humidity. Identifying the issue before it becomes a massive problem means that you can fix it as it arises and will hopefully not cause any long-term damage.