Weather can be unpredictable — one day, it’s sunny and warm, and the next, you’re dealing with a downpour or gusty winds. While we often think about how weather affects our plans or our mood, we might not always consider how it impacts our homes. But the truth is, the weather plays a huge role in your home’s integrity. From the foundation to the roof, different weather conditions can take a toll over time, and it’s essential to know what to look out for to keep your home safe and sound. Let’s dive into some common weather conditions and how they can affect your home.
Heavy Rain and Flooding: Not Just a Puddle Problem
Rain is great for the garden, but too much of it can be a serious threat to your home. Heavy rain can lead to water damage in various ways, from leaking roofs to flooded basements. When water doesn’t drain properly around your home’s foundation, it can seep in, causing cracks, mold, and even structural damage. Additionally, consistent moisture can wear down your siding and paint, leading to costly repairs.
What to Watch For: Check for signs of leaks around windows and doors, in your attic, and around your foundation. If you have a basement, make sure your sump pump is in good working order and consider installing a backup battery. Learn more about preparing for flooding.
Strong Winds: More Than Just Blown Leaves
When the wind picks up, we tend to think about securing outdoor furniture or bringing in the plants. But strong winds can also impact your home in more serious ways. High winds can damage roofs by lifting shingles or tiles, which can lead to leaks. They can also weaken or damage siding, gutters, and downspouts, and even break windows if debris is flying around. Over time, repeated exposure to strong winds can wear down the structural elements of your home.
Inspect your roof after a windstorm for any missing or damaged shingles. Check your siding and gutters for any signs of wear or damage. Trim back any large trees or branches near your home to reduce the risk of impact damage. Check out this guide on how to protect your home from wind damage.
Snow and Ice: Winter’s Hidden Dangers
While a snowy winter landscape looks beautiful, snow and ice can spell trouble for your home. Snow accumulation on your roof adds significant weight and can cause stress or even structural damage if your roof isn’t properly maintained. Ice dams are another common issue, forming when melting snow refreezes at the edge of your roof, preventing proper drainage and leading to leaks inside your home. Additionally, freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst, leading to water damage.
Ensure your roof is properly insulated and ventilated to prevent ice dams. Regularly remove snow build-up from your roof using a roof rake, if safe to do so. Insulate any exposed pipes to prevent freezing, and consider installing heat cables in problem areas. Learn how to prevent ice dams here.
Heat and Sun: Not Always a Warm Welcome
While we may enjoy basking in the summer sun, prolonged exposure to high temperatures and UV rays can have a negative impact on your home. Excessive heat can cause your roof to expand and contract, leading to cracks and other damage. UV rays can fade your exterior paint and damage your siding, while intense heat can also warp or crack windows and doors.
Look for signs of damage like peeling paint, warped or cracked siding, and check your roof for any curling or cracking shingles. You might also consider installing UV-reflective windows or applying a UV-protective coating to your home’s exterior. Learn more about the effects of UV on your home.
Humidity: A Silent Attacker
High humidity levels can cause several problems for your home. When moisture levels rise, it can create a perfect environment for mold and mildew growth, which not only damages walls, ceilings, and floors but can also impact indoor air quality and your family’s health. Wood elements, such as doors and windows, may swell, making them difficult to open or close, and over time, humidity can weaken wooden structures.
Keep an eye out for signs of mold or mildew in bathrooms, basements, and other damp areas. Consider using dehumidifiers to keep humidity levels in check, especially in naturally damp areas like basements or crawl spaces. Check out more tips on controlling indoor humidity.
Stay One Step Ahead of the Weather
Weather can be unpredictable, but your home maintenance routine doesn’t have to be. Regular inspections, both by yourself and a professional, can help catch early signs of damage before they become big (and expensive) problems. At Axium Inspections, our team is trained to look for all the telltale signs that weather has taken a toll on your home, from the basement to the roof. No matter what Mother Nature throws your way, we’re here to help keep your home safe and sound!
