Summer weather can be fairly unpredictable, depending on the interaction between cold air and warm air as well as any passing weather fronts. Sometimes there are no advance warnings about destructive events, like flooding or high winds. Even when warnings and alerts are issued, many people do not keep up with them. Here are a few tips that can help homeowners to protect homes from potentially bad weather this summer.
Hang window shutters.
If your windows do not have shutters, have them installed so they can help to protect against high winds or hail. Buy the kind of shutters that can be securely latched to cover the glass in each window. These can also serve an ornamental function when coordinated with the home’s style and décor.
Update the weather stripping.
Check all the home’s entrances to see if they need weather stripping. If they already have it, make sure it is still secure and in good shape, as it may decompose and erode over time. This helps to keep a hard rain from blowing in at the door’s edge.
Check windows for possible leakage.
Take a close look at the window frames throughout the home, including the attic and basement. If water has trickled in before, you will probably see water stains or mold. If so, you should caulk around the windows. If the leakage is substantial, have the windows replaced with a sturdy, well-insulated style that will prevent future leaks.
Inspect the roof for loose tiles.
Before summer arrives, either check the roof yourself or have an expert do it to see if any tiles or shingles are loose or missing. This is also a good time to look for weak areas that could rot through in the near future to let water drip into the house.
Waterproof the basement.
A basement that has been treated with sealant will help to keep moisture out. If it has been several years since the basement was waterproofed, it may be time to have it done again, especially if there is any evidence of leaks or mildew. Check the floor for any signs of cracks or leakage, as well.
Secure outdoor furniture and fixtures.
Most patio furniture is freestanding and can be taken indoors when rough weather warnings are issued. But if you are away from home, you won’t be there to do it. Consider having permanent outdoor furniture, like a patio table and chairs, secured to the ground to prevent wind damage. If you are concerned about hail or hard rain, it is probably best to have a plan for moving things into the garage or a shed when the forecast indicates problem weather is on the way. If you won’t be home, either move the furniture inside before leaving or arrange for a neighbor to do it if conditions warrant.
Protect the landscaping.
Seedlings, saplings, and other new growth in the yard or landscaping should be protected with plastic covers if bad weather threatens. Small trees and garden produce or flowering shrubs can be staked for support. Trim tall trees near the house to help prevent them from dropping branches on the roof or on electrical wires during windstorms.
It doesn’t take much time or cost a lot of money to prepare a home for bad summer weather. Taking precautions like these can actually save the homeowner money if damaging weather should strike. A careful inspection at each point of entry, along with the windows, roof, and foundation, can spot problems early on so they can be dealt with before serious damage occurs. Handling issues like these ahead of time will be worth the peace of mind.
