In case you hadn’t noticed, it’s getting wet out there. Following a record-setting atmospheric river over the weekend, the Bay Area is about to be hit by another 3-5 inches of rain, 40-60 mph winds, and all the mess that comes along with it.
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You may have noticed some strange water droplets falling from the sky this week. It’s called rain, and we haven’t had enough of it lately. Is your house prepared? Here’s what you can do!
Make sure to check the house for leaks after every rain, especially in those nooks and crannies you rarely visit. You never know when a minor issue could turn into a massive headache, and you don’t want to be caught bailing out a closet when the next heavy storm comes calling.
It’s not glamorous, but clearing your gutters now before the real rainy season hits will save you a major pain digging through the muck of wet leaves and debris. And definitely don’t trust those fancy filters you see on TV. If a solution seems too easy, that’s because it probably is. Do it yourself!
Some home projects can wait until you have the time – or the energy – but some tune ups need tackling now. Let’s take a look at a few common red flags…
Critters
The sounds of scurrying in the rafters or mouse droppings in HVAC grills are signs that you may have four-legged visitors. Check exhaust vents, ducts, utility panels, garage doors, and other access points. Look for gaps, signs of chewing or nesting, or ripped screening. Even a hole the size of a quarter is big enough for a rodent to slip through.
Mold
It’s natural to occasionally find mold in wet spots like kitchen and bathroom tiles, but when you see it seeping into your living room walls, it’s time to call a professional for an inspection and remediation.
Water
Standing water in your yard after a rain is a telltale sign that you have poor drainage. This could be caused by heavy, compacted soils, or improper grading. If water collects near your home’s foundation, it could cause costly problems.
Roofing
It is essential that you inspect your roof on a regular basis – at least once a year. Missing shingles or other signs of damage should be addressed right away, because the costs of neglecting them can escalate very quickly, especially if we finally get some rain.
HVAC
Even in our temperate Silicon Valley climate, heating and air conditioning are key components of our quality of life. And you shouldn’t ignore that noise your A/C unit is making just because we’re entering the colder months. Get it checked out or risk paying through the nose when it breaks down during a summer heat wave.
Plumbing
What’s that smell coming from your kitchen sink? If a plunger isn’t enough for your investigation, call a professional and get it checked. Trust me, you don’t want to wait to deal with that mess!
