When rain falls in Tampa, it may cool us off from the heat, but storm season also packs a big punch. The sheer volume of water that falls in a short time is known to cause plenty of damage.
Is your home up to the task for the rainy season? You know the downpours are coming, and that they pound everything relentlessly, so it pays to check your home regularly and remodel where necessary to be sure you’ll stay protected from expensive problems.
Look for Leaks or Get a New Roof
Your roof is the first line of defense against the rainstorms, so be sure it is secure and sealed well. Roof leaks are common problems for any home that has been standing for a few years, so it makes sense to check the roof regularly. You also want the strength of your roof to be checked, because storms and hurricanes can damage a roof or tear it off in quick time.
Not many homeowners inspect their roof, or if they do they don’t know what to look for. Small gaps in and around it are easy to overlook, as are seals that have perished or opened a tiny bit. But they can be the cause of a big insurance claim and cleanup bill. These little areas need the eagle eye of a professional who has experience with homes in Tampa.
A good pro will have a checklist for the common areas water will leak into a home, along with potential weak points in a storm, and will also provide a free quote for repairing or replacing your roof.
Check the Drainage from Your Roof
Where does the water go as it flows off your roof? Most likely into guttering, but where does it go after that and how well is that system working? Drainpipes and guttering can wear out or develop problems because of punishment from tropical rain. They need regular inspecting, repairing and replacing. Slight leaks or weaknesses can cause water to reach get into walls or under other surfaces. Gutters and drains are functional, but can also add aesthetic flair to your home with interesting looks, shapes and colors.
What about the drains around your home? Are they clear? Are they placed right? Are they handling the job well? Are they keeping water away from the basement and the foundations? One problem can cause water to back up, accumulate, and eventually undermine or invade your home.
Again, professionals will inspect and advise. Special drainage and guttering may be what’s needed to protect your home. Or changes to the roof to divert water better.
Other Good Waterproofing Ideas Around the Home
First, get any and all cracks in concrete repaired. Next, check seals around doors and windows. If the sealant’s integrity is gone, get new stuff in there straight away. After that, get an expert to check that water is not seeping into your foundations.
If you really want to get serious about remodeling and waterproofing at the same time, consider replacing your house wrap – the thin plastic coating underneath the outer walls that protects the inner structure from moisture. You can even replace wrap with sheathing that is thick enough to not only keep moisture out but also act as insulation. If your home’s siding has seen better days and needs upgrading, it’s a good idea to take care of the wrap or sheathing at the same time.
Storm season in Tampa is inevitable so be prepared and keep the water out of your home with some smart remodeling decisions.
Greg Nelson is the owner of Nelson Construction & Renovations Inc. He is a Florida State Certified Building Contractor, creating artistry in all areas of design and construction projects. He is a musician, and artist. A husband and father, Greg appreciates all the wonderful elements of family life.
Creative Commons Attribution: Permission is granted to repost this article in its entirety with credit to Nelson Construction and Renovations and a clickable link back to this page.
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