Spring — the time for renewal — is around the corner. Spring brings with it renewed energy and a greater will to work around the house and outside on chores you have been avoiding. Most importantly, spring serves as a reminder to clean and care for parts of your home known to cause water damage. 

Check out our spring cleaning tips to circumvent water damage and keep your home in tip-top shape below.

 

1. Inspect All Drains

Start your spring cleaning activities by inspecting all drains. Clogged drains could cause water to flood, which could lead to water damage. Any noticeable blockage should be removed immediately.

 

2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Spring is the ideal time to clean the gutters and downspouts of your house. This type of cleaning is best done on a bright, sunny day. While you’re cleaning your clogged gutters, make sure to clear out the downspouts as well. The downspouts are another location for water blockage to occur and run toward your home. Clean and clear gutters and downspouts will direct the flow of water away from your foundation so that runoff does not enter your home. 

 

3. Caulk All Windows and Stucco

Inspect your windows and stucco on the interior and exterior of your home for possible cracks. Cracks that are not caulked could become entrances for water to enter your house. It is beneficial to apply the caulk to all joints in a window frame as well as the joint between the frame and the wall. Caulking is a quick option to prevent damage that can occur in the future.  

 

4. Flush Out Your Water Heater 

Going into the new season, make sure your water heater is fully operational. When your water heater fails to perform properly, flooding can occur in a matter of minutes. To avoid this, make sure your water heater is fully operational at all times. Water heaters require maintenance in order to prolong their lifespan and efficiency. Maintenance such as flushing out the water heater includes getting rid of sediments that can build up and lead to your water heater not functioning properly and potentially causing damage. 

 

5. Direct Water Away From Your Home 

The grading around your home likely has a downward slope to direct water away from your home. If your home wasn’t graded properly originally, you can take this opportunity to have it changed. But if you have a mature landscape and would rather implement a less intrusive option, consider a dry creek or a french drain instead. 

Regular maintenance is essential to avoid water damage to your home. Spring serves as a great reminder to clean and upgrade the parts of your house that can contribute to water damage. If you’re already experiencing water damage to your home, call the team at Entrusted for a free assessment.