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Making Exterior Inspection Part of Your Spring Home Checklist
Now that we’ve settled into the springtime change, it’s also time to adjust to the warming weather ahead. As the tremendous snow fall from this winter begins to disappear, it can also be a sign of trouble to come if water begins seeping into your home. Being proactive is a key measure to prevent any damage. Taylor Gonneau CEO of Complete Restoration Services and one of Unica’s vendor partners suggests “water pooling around the exterior of your house can make its way into your basement or crawl spaces, causing potential damage. The good news is that with a bit of time and effort, you can take steps to protect your home from seepage due to melting snow.”
The good news? With 3 simple steps you can easily safeguard your home from water seepage this snow melt season. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to keep your home dry and cozy:
1.Inspect Your Foundation
Start by walking around the outside of your home and keep an eye out for any cracks or gaps in the foundation — these could be easy areas for water to begin seeping in. If you spot any, try to clear away any snow piled up around them. And if you notice a crack that extends below the soil line, it might be a good idea to reach out to a foundation specialist for a closer look.
2. Regularly Remove Snow Near the Foundation
To prevent a snow buildup near your home’s foundation, clear the snow as it builds. As Taylor mentioned “use a shovel or snow blower to clear the area around your home’s foundation and ensure that no snow piles up near or against the foundation walls.” The less snow around your house, the less water will potentially seep in when it melts.
3. Clear Your Gutters and Downspouts
“Clogged gutters can easily cause water to overflow, pooling near the foundation. Clean out your gutters to remove any debris like leaves, twigs, and dirt. Check that the downspouts are directing water away from your home.” Taylor also suggests If needed, add extensions to your downspouts to ensure water flows at least 3 to 4 feet away from the foundation.
A Water-Secure Home
By following these simple water damage prevention tips, you’re ensuring the safety of your home. Remember that early detection and quick action are your allies in reducing water damage risks. To learn more about protecting your home against water damage, talk to a broker about Unica’s WATERtight™ protection—a comprehensive solution that safeguards your home against Overland Flooding, Ground Water, Surface Water, and Sewer Backup.
Additional helpful blogs:
8 Essential Spring Home Maintenance Tips: A Homeowners Guide
