How to Prevent Water Damage Around Your Home with Simple Fixes
Simple Fixes to Keep Water Damage Away from Your Home
Water damage can sneak up like an uninvited guest and leave behind a trail of problems. From damp walls to warped wood, it's not something you want to deal with. The good news? With a few simple fixes, you can keep your home safe and dry.
Check Your Gutters and Downpipes
Gutters are your home's first line of defence against rainwater. If they’re clogged with leaves and debris, water spills over the edge and ends up right where you don’t want it—your foundation. That’s a recipe for leaks and structural headaches.
Give them a clean-out every few months, especially after a big storm. If you notice any cracks or loose attachments, grab some sealant and make the fix before it gets worse. And don't forget the downpipes! If they’re not directing water away from your house, a simple extension can save you a world of trouble.
Seal Gaps Around Windows and Doors
If rain gets in through tiny gaps, it can lead to mould, warped wood, and peeling paint. A quick way to check for leaks is to run a candle or incense stick along the edges of windows and doors on a windy day. If the flame or smoke flickers, you've got a gap.
Silicone sealant or weather stripping works wonders here. It not only stops water from creeping in but also keeps warm air inside during winter and cool air in during summer. That’s a win-win.
Inspect Your Roof for Loose or Broken Tiles
Your roof takes a beating every time it rains. Cracked, missing, or loose tiles let water seep into your ceilings and walls before you even realise there’s a problem. A quick visual inspection from the ground can spot obvious damage, but if you're feeling confident, a careful walk on the roof (or using a pair of binoculars) can help you catch trouble early.
Missing a tile? Replacements are easy to install. If you're not sure what you're doing, a roofing expert can take a look before things get out of hand.
Keep an Eye on Your Garden's Drainage
Heavy rain can turn your yard into a swamp if water has nowhere to go. Puddles forming around the base of your house are a big red flag. Over time, all that moisture can weaken foundations and seep into crawl spaces.
Consider adding a gravel pathway, an extra drainage channel, or even adjusting your garden beds to encourage water to flow away from your home. Mulch can also help absorb excess moisture while keeping your plants happy.
Check Under the House for Moisture Build-Up
If your home has a crawl space, it’s worth a look every now and then. Excess moisture under your house can lead to rising damp, which causes serious damage to walls and floors. If things seem too damp, better ventilation or a moisture barrier can make a big difference.
Final Words
Water damage isn't always dramatic, but over time, it can cause problems that are expensive to fix. A little effort now—cleaning gutters, checking your roof, sealing gaps, and improving drainage—can prevent a whole lot of hassle later.
Need the right tools and supplies to get these jobs done? Drop by Strathalbyn H Hardware. We’ve got everything from sealants to drainage solutions, plus expert advice to help you keep your home in top shape.
Stay dry out there!
Cheers,
Candeece
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