Preparing Your Home Against Water Damage
by: NeonX
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Word Count: 288
Optimize your home's defence against the destructive nature of water accumulation by following these simple tips.
Gutters and Downspouts
Just about everyone knows that gutters and downspouts are the most effective way of getting rid of runoff water from your property. Unfortunately, many homeowners still neglect them.
Install gutters that are sized, shaped, and sloped appropriately for your home and the climate conditions of where you live. Keep them free of debris and dirt by cleaning them about twice a year, and check them at the same time to make sure they are free of holes or cracks that could prevent water from being eliminated. Do the same for downspouts, and make sure that water is directed well away from your property; 6 feet is ideal.
Seal Cracks
Check for cracks and crumbling concrete of your home's foundation and basement walls. This is usually a good indication of water damage. Find the source of the problem, and repair the cracks as soon as possible to prevent bigger problems.
Water can also enter through improperly sealed windows and vents.
Check the Ground Around Your Home
Houses are generally constructed on ground that is slightly sloped to allow water to drain away. Due to soil erosion and other such environmental factors, puddles forming in close proximity to your home could indicate that the ground is no longer sloped at a sufficient angle. This normally occurs over a period of time, making it necessary to occasionally check that water still drains from your home and downspouts properly.
If you find that the ground has become uneven over the years, allowing for water to accumulate, some soil leveling or other solution may be required. You may also want to consider planting a tree or vegetation to help eliminate the water.
About the Author
This home repair article has been brought to you by www.rainguardusa.com.
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