The season of rain is well underway, but it’s still not too late to leak-proof your home to avoid potential damages.

It’s estimated that 90% of all residential buildings experience some sort of leak at some time in their history.  Any heavy rain or long rainy period will do; or what if it was an “out of control” sprinkler system. Weather-related water damage costs near $1 billion annually in the United States.  That figure doesn’t consider lesser problems such as water stains or small patches of mold.  So, it’s important to know how to prevent water damage that starts on the outside of your home.  Prevention can be a lot less time consuming than filing an insurance claim.

Leak Proof Your Home

Keeping rainwater from seeping into your home takes a lot more than a quick look at the roof each fall, but it’s well worth the effort.  Here is our list of some of the most important tips on how to protect your home from water damage due to rain.

• Clean out your roof gutters.  It’s the spring and fall ritual everyone hates, but clogged roof gutters can be a big problem.  When they are full, they spill water against the foundation, exactly what they were designed to prevent.  Plus, they can cause water to seep under shingles and between cracks in the eaves and trim.  Don’t forget that the downspouts can become blocked with leaves and other debris as well.  If noticeable debris accumulates before the rainy season is over, consider installing gutter guards.
• Inspect your roof at least once a year. Look for missing, loose, damaged, or aging shingles.  Also, make sure that flashing and caulking on all roof penetrations and eves are in good condition.  A professional roof inspection every few years can be a good investment.
• Check doors and windows to make sure that their seals and caulking are in doing their job.  Peeling, bubbling, or discolored paint indicates that there’s probably a leaking gap somewhere nearby.
• Likewise, check the caulking around any wall penetrations such as water and gas lines, phone lines, cable or satellite TV, and internet connections.
• Keep siding, stucco, and other types of walls well maintained with inspections, repairs, and painting as needed.
• Chimneys need attention too.  Make sure that your chimney cap is properly in place and that all gaps are sealed.  Some types of masonry may need to be sealed from time to time.

Finally, after any storm or heavy rain, it’s a good idea to check for water leaks and fix them.

If you experience any water-related damage, call the professionals at Thompson Building Associates. We have teams ready to be dispatched regardless of the time - day  or night! Follow us on Facebook!