ServiceMaster of Germantown is your water damage mitigation expert. Harsh winter weather has turned milder with the start of spring. However, you’re not in the clear for storm damage just yet. Spring showers can still create serious damage if you’re not prepared. Your home may have sustained some weather-related damage over the past few months. Now’s the time to mitigate that damage and seal your windows and doors before rainwater makes it into your home.
Interior:
Install a Sump Pump:
The most effective way to prevent spring flooding is to install a sump pump. It’s usually in your basement or crawl space. When water makes it into the sump pit, the sump pump works to remove it which keeps your home flood-free. If you already have a sump pump, make sure it’s functioning properly.
- Observe your sump pump to see if it turns on when excessive water is present.
- Look for a low water level in your sump pit.
- Remove debris from your sump pit. It should be completely clear.
- Slowly pour five-gallons of water into your sump pit and wait. Your sump pump should turn on and effectively pump out the water.
Attic & Basement:
Areas like your attic and basement usually experience water damage first. It’s important to periodically check these places to ensure spring showers aren’t invading your home.
- Inspect the perimeters of your attic and basement. Look for water staining, holes, mold and soft spots caused by water leakage.
- In your attic, focus on checking for ice damage that could have occurred over the winter.
Exterior:
Windows, Doors & Roof
Inspect the exterior of your home for any damage or gaps that could allow rainwater to seep inside.
- Make sure that your windows and doors seal correctly. If you see any open spaces, fill them in with weather stripping.
- Your roof may have sustained some damage over the winter months. Replace missing shingles and fill in gaps and other damage.
Gutters
Your gutters play an important role in directing water away from your home.
- Look them over for leaks or blockage.
- Remove debris to prevent an overflow.
- Direct downspouts away from your foundation to a storm drain. A good way to do this is to extend your downspouts. You can find downspout extenders at your local home improvement store.
- Consider changing the grade of your yard if water is pooling near your foundation. It’s important to create a natural path for water to travel away from your home.
Sprinklers & Faucets
Inspect your sprinkler system and outdoor faucets for any damage freezing temperatures could have caused.
- Remove faucet coverings and reconnect your sprinkler systems’ water supply.
- Turn on sprinklers and make sure they’re watering your plants without creating puddles or spraying your home.
- Replace worn sprinkler pipes, valves and nozzles.
- Make sure outdoor faucets are in good condition by turning them on and looking for leaks.
ServiceMaster of Germantown is available 24/7 for emergency water damage services. Contact us at 901-854-6225 to learn more about our services.
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