Rain is a necessary evil. It waters our lawns, replenishes the ground, stops dust from kicking up and wreaking havoc in our sinuses, and sometimes it’s even enjoyable to experience. Too much rain, however, can lead to all sorts of problems for homeowners. Hassles like flooding, leaks, water damage, and pests can be especially bad for people who live in particularly rainy areas. To make your life a bit easier, keep rainwater under control with some preventive measures.
Around The House
Rainwater clearly belongs outside, and if it gets inside, it can cause problems. Logically then, the first way to keep rainwater under control is to ensure structural integrity and proper drainage. Start on the roof by looking for any loose, damaged, or missing shingles. Replace these and patch any other spots that look troublesome. Repair all leaks promptly, no matter how small they are at first. Even a small leak can become a big problem in a storm, and can also lead to termite infestation. If you find extensive damage to the shingles – say, more than 20% – consider having the house re-roofed.
Next, clean out your gutters. This should be part of your routine spring maintenance list, as leaves and ice will have built up over the last several months. While you are up there, make note of any damage to the gutters and make repairs as necessary. Make sure your downspouts are clear of obstructions, flowing freely, and draining water away from the foundation. These steps are key to proper drainage of rainwater.
In The Yard
After taking care of the house, the next step is to head out into the yard. Take a walk through your yard and look for any areas where the grade is going back toward your house, as well as any depressions where water could pool. Essentially, you want to make sure that any excess rainwater in your yard will be effectively drained away from your house, in order to prevent flooding, water damage, and pest problems. Consider filling, grading, or installing a culvert or other drainage system to correct problems in the yard.
While you are at it, take a look at the driveway, too. Make a note of any cracks or holes that may need to be filled in, as these can also result in improper drainage. If you have a gravel driveway, consider having it graded if it hasn’t been done in a while.
Taking control of rainwater is all about keeping it out and away. These maintenance tips can help you do that.