Spring Rain. IS YOUR HOME READY??
Spring is finally here and so are the spring rains.
So far, the rainfall has come at a slow and steady pace, rather than a lot of rain in a short time.
We’re Off To A Good Start
This is a good way to start the spring rainy season!
Why?
Because of our dry winter, the soil along the foundation has probably contracted and shrunk, leaving a lot of large cracks. This makes it easy for heavy rains to run straight towards your foundation, basement walls, and footings.
What To Be Looking For Before Storms Start Pouring Rain:
#1 – Is Your Sump Pump Working Properly?
Your sump pump is the most important part of your home’s waterproofing system. But is has to be properly maintained!
The impeller should be connected to the sump pump with bolts and may need a thorough cleaning to work properly.
To test your sump pump read 5 easy steps in our previous blog here:
#2 – Is There Water in Your Basement?
Pay attention to any water in your basement or other signs of leaks.
Usually this is a sign of problems in other places, often on the outside of your foundation walls.
Which leads to the next question…..
#3 – Do You See Water “Ponding” in Your Yard?
Watch where the water flows in your yard, and pay special attention to any place you see standing water.
If there are pools of water close to your foundation, it could mean there’s a problem.
Check your gutters or downspouts to make sure they are cleaned out and working properly.
Also check the location of your discharge for your downspouts and your sump pump. We recommend these discharge at least 10 feet away from your property.
And make sure your landscape slopes away from your foundation. It’s common for the soil near the foundation to settle over the season, which could cause water to pool in any low spots.
What To Do If You Find a Problem
If you see any problems, you should get them checked out right away. Contact a local, reputable foundation repair or engineering firm for an inspection.
May Home Maintenance Tips
Things are starting to heat up in Kansas City! Is your home ready for the warm weather? We’ve got the top 6 things to put on your to-do list this month.
1. CLEAN YOUR GUTTERS
Clean and inspect your gutters. Use a garden hose to flush your gutter out and make sure that your downspouts are directing water at least three feet away from your foundation. A clogged gutter can cause water issues that are potentially not covered under your home policy so it’s best to be proactive.
2. GET YOUR POOL READY
It’s time to get your pool ready for summer. Be sure to schedule your appointment with your preferred pool company, so you don’t get stuck with your first pool party and a pool that isn’t ready!
3. PEST CONTROL
Pests love warm months. Now is the time to check for signs of pests. You want to especially pay attention to any signs of burrowing in wood. Keep cobwebs clear, make sure you don’t have any standing-water issues in or outside of your home. If you have a pest problem, have an expert check it out before it becomes an out-of-control problem. Treating a small problem is always better then waiting until it becomes a large problem.
3. PRESSURE-WASH YOUR HOME, DECK, AND WALKWAYS
Pressure washing not only gives your home a nice clean look, but it also protects it! Want to get rid of spider eggs? Pressure washing will take care of that. Dirt, mold, mildew, soot, airborne pollutants & other contaminants can also cause damage to the surface of your home if it’s not taken care of.
4. DUST CEILING FANS
Dust ceiling fan blades and reverses the blade rotation. In warm weather they should rotate counterclockwise.
5. PICK UP YOUR GARAGE
Garages tend to be neglected in the winter and spring. Keeping it clean will extend it’s life and help you use it for what it’s intended for. If you have run out of room, consider garage storage solutions or having a garage sale to declutter.
6. GET READY FOR MOVIES AND ENTERTAINING
Nothing says summer like blockbuster movies and outdoor entertainment! Are you ready to take your home audio or outdoor patio to the next level? Get it ready now. If you have metal patio furniture, coat them in auto polish before setting them out to protect them. Be ready to host an impromptu party or invite your family and friends over for a Memorial Day gathering!
Preparing Your Home For Winter Freezes
With winter arriving soon, now is a great time to prepare your home for freezing temperatures. Use the checklist below to give you ideas for keeping warm, preventing fires, and saving money.
Have your furnace inspected and serviced by a professional at least once a year. Catching an issue early can save you thousands and if you’re a preferred customer of a local HVAC company, most will put you at the top of the list should you have a furnace issue during the extremely cold times.
Have chimneys and vents cleaned and inspected. (Built up creosote is the leading cause of chimney fires!)
Stock up on dry, seasoned wood for the fireplace or wood stove.
Check the condition of your fireplace screen. Is it in good condition and secure?
Get a covered metal container ready to dispose of cooled ashes. (And keep it at least 15 feet from your home.)
Review fireplace safety with your kids!
Jon Olson Agency-Farmers Insurance 