Risky Weather: What The Elements Could Do To Your Home
Have you noticed how the weather around the world has been acting a bit unpredictable lately? It's like Mother Nature is keeping us on our toes with all these changes. Whether you're a firm believer in natural weather cycles or think it's linked to climate change, one thing's for sure: we need to pay attention and safeguard our homes.
Let's dive in and explore how risky weather can impact various areas of your beloved abode. Brace yourself, because we're about to unveil what these elements could do to your home!
Let's dive in and explore how risky weather can impact various areas of your beloved abode. Brace yourself, because we're about to unveil what these elements could do to your home!
Risky Weather: What The Elements Could Do To Your Home
Your Roof
Your roof takes a beating from all sides – rain, wind, snow, and even scorching heat or freezing cold can cause damage to your roofing materials. If you've got worries about the state of your roof even before risky weather attacks, it's essential to seek the help of a trustworthy roofing contractor. Don't hesitate to schedule a visit from their experts who can assess your roof's condition, listen to your concerns, and provide you with an estimate for any necessary repairs or even a replacement if needed. Taking action now can save you from potential headaches down the road.
Your Windows
Your windows, though not as exposed as the roof, are still vulnerable to weather-related damage. Storms and harsh weather can lead to cracked or broken windows, and it's crucial to address these issues promptly. Your safety from the elements is a top priority, but don't forget about your personal safety too. Sometimes, window damage isn't immediately obvious, and if left unnoticed, it can lead to more significant problems in the future. If you're thinking about replacing your windows, opt for double or triple-paned, energy-efficient ones to enhance both protection and energy savings.
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Your Pipes
Living in a cold climate means your home's pipes are probably insulated to some extent, shielding them from the harsh elements. But don't let that give you a false sense of security – freezing pipes can still be a problem, and even worse, they might burst. So, if you're planning to be away from home for an extended period during freezing temperatures, take precautions. Set your thermostat no lower than 50 degrees to maintain some warmth indoors and prevent pipes from freezing. Additionally, leaving a sink faucet slightly dripping can help relieve pressure in the system, reducing the chances of a pipe bursting. Remember, it's the pressure between the blockage and the faucet that poses the greatest risk of pipe damage when a freeze occurs.
Your Driveway
Anyone with an asphalt driveway knows what's bound to happen to it in winter: unsightly and dangerous potholes. And in the summer, it could be just as bad with hot and sticky spots causing dents and indentations. Because it's such a high traffic area, driveways will always require maintenance, no matter what material it's made out of. Routinely keep this area free and clear of debris and use shovels and other tools with rubber edges so as not to exacerbate damage. Also, stay away from salt as a de-icing agent in winter as it can be corrosive to pavement. Instead, opt for calcium chloride, kitty litter or sand.
Your Yard
Your yard takes a real beating during stormy weather, so be sure that anything that is portable is brought inside or tied down extremely well (two words: zip ties). Be sure that trees are pruned each spring and / or fall so you aren't at risk for falling limbs and branches and if you see something, say something; to your neighbors, that is. If there seems to be dangerous limbs encroaching on your property, make sure they are aware of it before something happens. When it comes to your home in risky weather, being proactive is half the battle.
Your Basement
Heavy rainfall or melting snow can lead to water seepage or flooding, turning your basement into an unwelcome swimming pool. Excessive moisture can foster mold growth, creating an unhealthy environment and damaging your belongings. Strong winds and storms may also bring down trees or debris, potentially causing structural damage to the basement walls or foundation. In freezing temperatures, water pipes in the basement might freeze and burst, leading to costly repairs. To protect your basement from the elements, it's essential to have proper waterproofing measures in place and conduct regular inspections to address any vulnerabilities promptly.
Hopefully the above info has given you something to think about the next time inclement weather is in the forecast. Here's State Farm's Top 10 Reasons Why (They Think) Your Home May Not Be Ready For Hurricane Season:
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