Prepare For Riverside’s Heavy Rain And Save On Water Damage Cleanup Costs
On average, Riverside gets some type of precipitation 34 days out of the year. While that does not seem like a lot for our hot, dry climate, that can still mean potential water damage when rain does fall. Since we may not be overly concerned about rain here, our water damage cleanup experts recommend you make sure that your home is prepared to handle rain when it does come so you can prevent damage from occurring.
First things first, make sure your rain gutters and downspouts are able to channel water off of and away from your home. Our gutters can often be forgotten or neglected, which leaves the potential for dirt and debris to build up inside them. If there is a blockage in your gutters and rain does come, water will not be properly drained from off your roof and could end up pooling up and over flowing down your home. This leaves your home more susceptible to water damage and leaks, especially near the foundation where water tends to pool. Our water damage cleanup experts advise you clean out your gutters at least once a year so you can find and resolve blockages before they cause water damage. While you are at it, make sure your downspouts are directing water away from your home. Water should be channeled at least 3 feet away from our foundation to prevent collecting water from seeping into your home. You can purchase downspout extenders if you need to help channeling water a few extra feet away.
Another thing you should check is the grading of your soil around the foundation of your home. One of the best ways you can prevent water from pooling around the foundation of your home is to grade your yard to divert runoff to a drainage area. You should aim for a drop of 2-3 inches per every 10 feet. This will create a slight slope that is just enough to help direct water away from your home when it does rain, and prevent pooling water around the foundation of your home from causing water damage.
Last, but definitely not least, you should check the seals and weather strips around windows and doors. These areas can allow water to enter into your home when it rains, especially if the seals are compromised. Caulk may need to be reapplied every few years to seal the casings around your windows and doors, and weather strips are an easy fix to blocking gaps. Not only will these sealings help keep water out when it rains, but they will also help make your AC more efficient by keeping the cool air in and the warm air out. Properly closing off and sealing windows and doors will prevent water leakage and water damage that may go unnoticed until it rains, which will then be too late. If damage does occur, then there’s no need to worry just yet. You can always enlist in the help of water damage cleanup experts.
Take advantage of the warm weather we do have, and do some inspecting around your home’s gutters, foundation, and doors and windows so you can address and resolve areas that are at risk of potential water damage when it rains. If you do find yourself in need of water damage cleanup, whether from rain or any other type of water damage, the pros at PRC in Riverside are here to help.