A big thunderstorm can pop up at any minute – after all, this is Michigan, land of the flip-flopping weather.
But that means you need to make sure your home is prepared for flooding at any time, and that’s particularly true on the outside. Your roof and exterior walls are your home’s first line of defense against flooding, so here’s what you need to do to take care of them and make sure they’re ready for surprise summertime storms.
How to Protect the Exterior of Your Home From Summer Flooding
First things first: If your home has sustained water damage, we may be able to help you. We deal with water damage restoration very frequently (flooding is actually the most common and costly disaster in the entire United States).
To protect your home’s exterior, you need to:
- Clean and maintain your gutters and downspouts
- Clear debris from storm drains
- Double-check your lot grading
Let’s take a deeper look at each of these.
#1. Clean and maintain your gutters and downspouts.
Your gutters and downspouts carry water off your roof and away from your home, so they need to be clear at all times. You might be surprised to discover how much debris can build up in them – so before summer hits in full force, head up there with a ladder and have a peek.
Make sure your downspouts are pointed away from your house, too, so the water they push out doesn’t make its way to your home’s foundation.
#2. Clear debris from storm drains.
If you have a drainage ditch or storm drain on your property, make sure it’s clear and free from debris. Water has a tough time making it past leaves, big sticks and other debris – and that can cause pooling, which can happen incredibly quickly during a flash flood.
#3. Double-check your lot grading.
Your home’s yard should be graded down, away from your house. It should be sloped enough that water won’t have a chance to pool around your home, but at a gentle enough grade that it won’t be uncomfortable for you.
Do You Need a Disaster Remediation Expert in Washtenaw County or Jackson County?
If your home has already been damaged, we can help. Check out our services and call 517-262-3770 for your free disaster remediation quote today. We offer:
