Ohio is known for its late summer storms, which can be unpredictable and incredibly powerful. While your house offers much-needed shelter against these storms, you also need to make sure your home itself is also protected. A few preventative steps will go a long way in protecting your property inside and out.
Check Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters and downspouts play an essential role in directing rainwater away from your home’s foundation. However, when the gutters get blocked by debris, water can overflow. This can damage your home’s siding and trim, and even lead to basement flooding. Regularly checking that your gutters are clear of debris and ensuring that the gutters and downspouts are properly pitched and secured will keep water flowing properly.
Secure Outdoor Items
Those late summer storms don’t just bring rain — they can also bring incredibly powerful winds. Unsecured toys, garden tools, and even patio furniture or grills can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. Store or secure these and other outdoor items before storms arrive to keep people and property safe.
Inspect Your Sump Pump
The sump pump is the first line of defense against water damage for homes with basements. Unfortunately, a sump pump may stop working during a power outage, resulting in basement flooding. Older sump pumps could also get overwhelmed by heavy rainfall. Test your sump pump before storms arrive and consider investing in a battery backup to keep it working during even the strongest storms.
We don’t always get a lot of warning for those late summer storms. But by taking a proactive approach to preventative maintenance, you can prevent costly storm damage and keep everything in great shape. If you want to build your own custom home that will take care of you through Ohio’s summer storms, contact Capstone Custom Homes today!