Spring Showers and All the Flooded Flowers | SERVPRO of East Cobb

3/29/2023 (Permalink)

When storm damage happens, call SERVPRO. We make storm and flood damage "Like it never even happened."

While it may not be coming fast enough for some of us, spring is quickly approaching—and with it, the excitement of renewal. Putting away winter clothes, planning out gardens and spending all day outside are just a few of the things we all look forward to each year. While you plan for the new season, make sure you also plan to prepare your home for all the weather that will come with it.

Just as you likely spend a good deal of time spring-cleaning inside, take the time to start cleaning around the outside of your home in order to prepare for heavy rains, winds and potential tornadoes.

Clean It Out

This has been a rainy winter, which could have led to buildup in your gutters from loose leaves or other debris. When water cannot properly flow through your gutter system and out your downspouts, it can spill over onto your roof, which can lead to leaks in your attic.

Walk your property and remove any piled-up debris from vents as well, particularly near your HVAC unit and dryer. Cleaning these out can not only prevent water intrusions, but it can also protect your home from fire and prolong the life of these pricey appliances.

If you have already uncovered your outdoor faucets, take a look at them and make sure there are no cracks or drips. Due to the extreme freeze we experienced this winter, many pipes froze, which could have left hairline cracks in your system as they thawed. While it is likely safe to leave them safe and turn the water back on if it was off for the season, keep covers nearby for the late spring freezes that are common here in Georgia.

Fix Issues Fast

Even in a mild winter, most of us spend the cold season indoors. All of this time inside can make it a challenge to find issues in your roof or around the foundation that may have started during the winter.

Because our weather gets warmer earlier than most areas of the country, use a warm week to get on your roof and check for loose or missing shingles. Look for visible signs of damage, particularly around eaves and chimney flashing. Leaks are common from aging in these areas.

It doesn’t take long for a little drip to become a big problem, so address issues as quickly as possible to avoid a total disaster.

Get Ready for the Water

Spring always brings a lot of rain, so taking action now can mean staying dry later. If your basement has a sump pump, thoroughly inspect it to ensure there are no breaks or blockages in the lines. A backed-up sump pump can lead to a basement full of water rather quickly, so you want to ensure yours is working well now in order to be prepared for the season.

Check your family’s emergency kit as well, and switch out seasonal items for rain gear. Check batteries and expiration dates, and make sure your communication plan is up to date. You need two ways to receive weather alerts, including one that doesn’t require external power. Our weather can become volatile quickly in the spring, so the more prepared you are now the safer you can keep your family.

Even the most prepared home could still see water damage, but the good news is you have a team of experts right in your backyard. We have the training and equipment to respond to your home day or night and start getting things dried out right away. It is our goal to save as much of your belongings as possible and get you back in your home fast.

Got water damage? We are here to help ²⁴⁄₇ and can restore your home quickly.