April showers might bring May flowers, but October’s blustery fall storms can challenge and sometimes overwhelm the watershed system of even the best-protected homes. In the Chicago area, most basement flooding is the result of these sudden water events.
Get Dwell recommends your to-do list this month includes some storm-proofing steps that will help keep your home high and dry when the weather turns nasty.
October To-Dos:
Evaluate external watershed system
Inspect chimney cap, roof, gutters and downspout system, and foundation/grade distribution for any signs of weakness or failures.
Protect your basement’s weaknesses
Every basement has its weaknesses. For example, a summer’s worth of detritus and fall leaves can clog window wells and below-grade drainage systems, so this is a good time to clean them of debris. Also, ensure that below- grade drains near stairs, doors and entryways are functioning correctly. Just having improper drain caps can lead to a lot of serious issues that could have easily been avoided.
Prepare for fall winds
Look for loose items on house (siding, shutters, etc) and check exterior structures, fences and gates. Pay special attention to tree branches over house that might show signs of weakness or previous damage. In a storm, they can cause catastrophic damage.
General exterior end-of-season repairs and maintenance
The end of September is a good time to do final sealing of your home’s exterior, one that will last the entire Chicago winter. Depending on the type of home you have, these last warm days are a good time to check brick mortar, put on a protective coat of paint and caulk any gaps that might let in cold or rain. In addition, make sure storm windows are ready for the coming cold. The end of October can be chilly — sometimes too chilly to accomplish outdoor winterizing projects. So plan ahead.
Have a question? Need exterior repairs or maintenance done before the Chicago cold arrives? Call Get Dwell. We’ll help ensure your house stays dry and cozy whatever the weather.