Springtime is synonymous with abundant showers! Did you know that rain, while often beneficially nourishing for our plants as well as revitalizing to our natural landscapes, can equally have a significant effect on our houses?
As a homeowner, understanding the related potential consequences is essential to protecting your real estate investment. So, what preventative measures can you take to maintain your home’s structural integrity and aesthetic appeal?
Impact of Water Infiltration
One of the most prevalent concerns regarding rain is water infiltration through the house’s roof, walls, and foundation. Leaks can lead to considerable damage, from wood rot to mould growth, up to serious foundation issues. Ensuring the roof remains in good condition and that the gutters and downspouts are clear is crucial to guaranteeing the adequate drainage of rainwater away from the structure. Exterior walls in poor condition can likewise cause a water infiltration problem.
Prevention Measures
So, what can you do to avoid all these problems? Look over the residence’s exterior envelope in fall and in spring. If you suspect an element needs repair (like if you notice deteriorating roof shingles or ineffective gutters), contact a professional. You should also remove accumulated debris from the gutters at least once a year.
Soil Erosion
Properties are usually constructed on lots graded to allow water to run away from the home. This isn’t, however, always the case! Heavy rainfall can erode the soil around the building’s perimeter, which can weaken the foundations and create small mounds and dips where water can easily pool next to it. Water is consequently far more likely to seep into and damage the structure.
Prevention Measures
Strategic landscaping, with gentle slopes, is key here! Moreover, installing an adequate drainage system can help protect the property against erosion’s negative effects.
Deterioration of Exterior Finishes
Our homes’ exterior finishing materials, such as wood, paint, vinyl cladding and brick, are all vulnerable to rain damage if exposed to moisture for a prolonged period. Rain can accelerate the deterioration process, resulting in cracks, peeling and discolouration. In fact, this wear and tear is typically considered normal for a property!
Prevention Measures
Nevertheless, you can prolong these exterior finishes’ lifespan through regular inspections and maintenance of exterior surfaces. Besides, this will enable you to identify and deal with any potential damage quickly.
Swelling of Materials
Certain building materials, like wood, tend to swell when exposed to moisture. You must therefore be vigilant if your property’s exterior is made out of this material. Indeed, swelling wood can lead to problems with the fit and function of the home’s doors, windows and other structural elements.
Prevention Measures
To minimize the effects humidity can have on wood, make sure such surfaces (such as outdoor wood cladding) are correctly sealed and painted. Also, carry out any needed repairs!
Rain is a natural phenomenon we must all contend with, but by understating how it can impact our homes we can take proactive measures to mitigate potential damage. From regular roof and gutter maintenance to strategic landscaping, every little bit helps when it comes to protecting our home from the elements.