Best Ways To Rain Proof Your Home

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The hot summers give way to the very wet monsoons. Water pours down from the heavens to give a refreshing lease of life to all below – living and non-living. This is the time of the year when there is water everywhere. As a relief from the heat, it is definitely welcome. But like all good things, the monsoons too come with their own set of challenges. One such challenge is how to rain proof home and belongings.

The best way to approach this challenge is by being pro-active. Sayings like ‘prevention is better than cure’ and ‘a stitch in time saves nine’ hold cent percent true in this situation.

GIVE YOUR HOME A MONSOON MAKEOVER: TIPS

To begin with, start by making your house rain proof; it does not matter whether you stay in a bungalow or an apartment.

Ideally, you should get ready for monsoon rains a month in advance. Doing so, you will know how well you are prepared before the black clouds come hovering and pouring. First and foremost, make a checklist of those issues that need attention at home. Next prioritise and tend to the most important first. To begin with how to rain proof home, here are a couple of things that you can check and work upon.

Electric wiring: This is definitely the most important. You cannot afford to overlook this section as one little mistake can lead to a great disaster. Check all wirings, both internal and external. Make sure there are no loose wires or water leakages in any of the electrical junction boxes or switch boards. All appliances should be in perfect order. Any electric bulb or tube in the open must be covered or removed to avoid accidents.

Drainage system: When it rains, there is water all over and this water needs free flow to drain easily. It is essential to keep all drains clear and free of debris. If you have a roof, see to it that the gutters are not clogged. Water from the roof should flow smoothly into the drains or else there may be rainwater overflowing gutters and entering windows.

Furniture polish: When planning how to rain proof home, give due consideration to wooden furniture. Get all wooden furniture and flooring polished or waxed. Make sure there is not scope for moisture seepage.

Carpet care: Carpets do look great in rooms and provide a cozy feel as well. However, monsoons can be a difficult time for carpet care. If possible, it would be best to clean, roll and stack them away for the monsoons. If at all you want to have them, then make sure to clean them on a weekly basis.

Doors and window panels: Doors, window panels and hinges also need to get ready for monsoons. The moisture in the air leads to swollen doors and window panes. The hinges also get squeaky. To avoid such discomfort, get all doors polished or waxed to prevent moisture seepage. See to it that all hinges are well greased with no scope left for rusting.

Plastic treatment: At times, due to shortage of space, we tend to keep many things out in the balconies. Also, if you stay in an area that tends to get water logged, then immense planning is required. Store away all valuables in plastic bags. Cover articles with plastic to avoid damage from water. There are sheets of good quality plastic available in the market for this purpose.

House entrance: Water can be kept out of the house and all door and windows secured and shut. But when one steps in water outside, what to do? Be prepared. Place a good absorbent door mat, one outside the door and one inside. Place an ‘umbrella catcher’ at the door to trap all dripping water at the door. Make proper arrangements to take off footwear at the entrance.