Finally, summer is on the horizon.
With the changing season comes the excitement of warmer days, outdoor adventures, and vibrant gardens in full bloom.
However, as we eagerly embrace these joys, it's also essential to prepare our homes for the potential challenges that summer's sometimes-inclement weather can bring.
Luckily, with just a little proactive planning, you can safeguard your home and enjoy a worry-free summer.
Protect Your Outdoor Space
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Your deck and gardens are precious extensions of your home, providing a serene sanctuary for relaxation and entertainment. To shield them from unexpected hailstorms or heavy rainfalls, consider reinforcing your fencing to offer an additional layer of protection.
Additionally, applying a fresh coat of sealant to your deck will not only enhance its appearance, but will help safeguard it against water damage and harsh UV rays.
Improve Indoor Air Quality
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With summer comes increased humidity, allergens, and air pollutants.
To ensure that your home remains a haven of fresh, clean air, investing in an air purifier is a wise choice. An air purifier can effectively remove airborne particles, such as dust, pollen, pet dander, and mould spores, providing you and your family with improved respiratory comfort and an easy, breezy living environment.
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Reinforce Windows And Doors
Strong winds and heavy rain can pose a threat to your windows and doors. To protect against potential damage and water infiltration, ensure that your windows and doors are properly sealed and reinforced. Consider installing storm shutters or investing in impact-resistant windows and doors, which are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
These measures will not only enhance the safety of your home but can also make your home more energy-efficient, helping you to reduce your heating and cooling bills by quite a bit.
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Clear Gutters And Downspouts
With summer storms, it's crucial to keep your gutters and downspouts clear of debris. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, causing damage to your roof, siding, and foundation. Regularly inspect and clean your gutters, removing leaves, twigs, and other obstructions.
Additionally, check that your downspouts are directing water away from your home's foundation to prevent water accumulation and potential basement flooding. Consider installing gutter guards to minimize debris buildup and streamline the maintenance process.
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Preparing Your Basement For Downpours
Summer showers can lead to potential torrential downpours, putting your basement at risk of water infiltration. Take preemptive action by waterproofing your basement.
This essential step involves sealing any cracks, installing proper drainage systems, and applying waterproof coatings to the walls and floors. By doing so, you'll fortify your basement against potential water damage, mould growth, and costly repairs.
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If you're looking to take basement protection a step further, consider strengthening the foundation of your home by increasing its depth or width.
This process, called basement underpinning, involves digging beneath the existing foundation and adding additional support to the foundation using various techniques such as installing new footings, pouring concrete, or adding steel beams. This method can add structural stability, enhance the overall value of your property, and provide additional space for expanding your living area.
When it comes to basement waterproofing and underpinning, it's imperative to entrust the expertise of an expert, like Aquamaster. With their years of experience and commitment to excellence, they are the go-to professionals for all your basement-related needs in Southern Ontario -- and beyond.
As the warm weather approaches, don't let the inclement elements catch you or your home off guard. By taking these proactive steps, you can prepare your home for the challenges that summer may bring, and you'll create a resilient haven for enjoying all the joys that the season has to offer.
This article was produced by the STOREYS Editorial team in partnership with our Affiliate Programming. STOREYS may receive a commission based on links in this article.
