Tips: How to protect your home from changing weather patterns
Changing weather patterns are causing more frequent and severe storms that increase the chance of water entering into your home. The best way to deal with water damage is to prevent it from happening. Here are some tips on how you can protect your home…inside and out.
Inside
- Know when your plumbing was last installed to ensure you are aware when aging pipes and fixtures should be replaced
- Install a backflow valve to prevent sewage from backing up into your basement
- Make sure your sump pump is working properly
- Don’t leave your home unattended. If you plan to be away, arrange to have someone check your property daily
Outside
- Inspect your roof regularly. Replace aging or worn shingles, check flashing and caulking around chimneys and vents.
- Keep eavestroughs and downspouts clear of leaves and debris. Extend downspouts at least six feet (1.8 meters) away from basement walls and drain away from the house towards the street or backyard
- Grade the earth around your house to slope away from the house
- Before winter, turn off water supply to outdoor taps and open taps to let them drain