What Summer Maintenance Prevents Storm Damage?

Clogged gutters cause water to overflow, which can damage your roof, siding, and foundation. During summer storms, this overflow can lead to significant water intrusion inside your home. Clearing leaves and debris from gutters ensures rainwater is directed properly away from your house. Extend your downspouts at least five feet from the foundation to prevent pooling water around your basement or crawlspace walls. A clogged downspout can cause an entire gutter system to fail under heavy rain, so check each outlet for blockages.

Your yard's slope, or grading, should direct water away from your home's foundation. If water pools near the house, consider adding soil to regrade the area or installing a French drain. Trim tree branches that hang over your roof or near power lines to prevent them from breaking in high winds. Remove dead trees or shrubs that could become airborne projectiles.

• Clear debris from window wells and basement window covers.
• Ensure sump pump discharge lines are clear and direct water away.
• Check that driveway and patio slopes do not channel water toward the house.
• Inspect and clean exterior drainage ditches or swales.
• Secure or store lightweight outdoor furniture, grills, and decor.
• Verify that automatic sprinkler systems are not flooding the foundation.

Storms can knock out power or cause plumbing backups. Know the location of your main water shutoff valve and ensure it turns easily. If you have a backup sump pump, test it and consider a battery backup system. Have a plan for sump pump failure, such as a portable pump. These preparations help you respond quickly if a storm overwhelms your home's normal defenses. It is also wise to clear valuable items from basement floors and lower shelves in case of unexpected flooding.