Houston weather is constantly changing, and it can also be unpredictable. From summer storms and hurricanes to freezing winter temperatures, the Gulf Coast experiences a wide range of weather conditions.
Extreme weather can take a toll on your home or business, especially when caught unprepared. So before the next extreme weather pattern hits, use the following tips to prepare your residential or commercial property.
5 Steps To Prepare Your Property For Extreme Weather
So, how do you prepare for the unpredictable? By following these five simple steps, your home or business will be ready for whatever extreme weather pattern comes your way.
1. Inspect the Building Exterior
Whether it’s business or home foundation preparation, the first step will always be the same: inspecting the building’s exterior. Look closely and check for any noticeable cracks on the walls and nearby pavement. Cracks aren’t always a sign of major damage, but they certainly can indicate the foundation is starting to shift or settle.
Plus, freezing temperatures and heavy rainfall will only make the problem worse. So, once you’ve completed your exterior inspection, it is now time to start dealing with any erosion control or soil settling problems.
2. Seal Holes and Cracks
Every building comes with a few holes, often used to run phone cables, internet lines, etc. While many holes aren’t necessarily harmful, they can let outside air in. Residences typically only have a few holes to deal with, but it’s not always the same for commercial buildings. Depending on your building’s size, you may want to hire a contractor to save time sealing holes.
For minor cracks and holes, you can use foam insulation spray found at most hardware stores. The aerosol cans are easy to use and effectively seal holes and cracks. Not only will the building stay at a comfortable temperature, but you can also reduce your energy costs. However, you should always bring in a trusted foundation expert if you are uncertain about the severity of the damage. The last thing you want to do is put a Band-Aid on a broken leg.
3. Install Proper Drainage
Proper drainage is something you don’t want to overlook during home and commercial foundation preparation. Having adequate drainage protects the foundation from pooling water and prevents soil erosion. It also helps eliminate the threat of rotting wood, mold, and pests.
When you install the right drainage system, a building can handle the Gulf Coast’s heavy rains without flooding the property. Additionally, your drainage system should include downspouts that move water away from the foundation.
4. Winterize Outdoor Plumbing
Even Gulf Coast properties need to winterize their outdoor plumbing—don’t underestimate the devastating effect a light freeze can have on pipes.
Winterizing plumbing can include adding insulation to help prevent freezing or wrapping exposed plumbing in old blankets and towels. Don’t forget to keep the water running inside—you don’t want it freezing in the pipes and causing a burst.
When temperatures are freezing for an extended period of time, you may want to drain your pipes. Start by shutting the water off at the source and turning on all the faucets. Emptying the lines will prevent water from freezing inside, thus saving you the need for expensive repairs.
5. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Cleaning gutters and downspouts is a dirty job that many property owners often put off. Climbing ladders and dealing with damp debris isn’t the most fun activity.
However, clogged gutters and downspouts can cause several problems, all of which are expensive to fix. For example, ice can form in the gutters and on your roof, and if the weight is too heavy, you may need roof repairs. In addition, the gutters can also tear away from the structure, resulting in additional damage.
Extreme rainfall from tropical storms and hurricanes is another problem with clogged drainage systems. As a result, flooding inside the home or business can occur. Not to mention you also have to worry about foundation damage. Luckily, installing screens will help keep your gutters and downspouts free of debris and dramatically reduce your threat of damage from extreme weather.
Contact URETEK Today for Drainage Control in Houston
Anyone living along the Gulf Coast is likely familiar with extreme weather. Heavy rains and freezing temperatures are a normal occurrence, depending on the season. But without proper preparation, property owners are often looking at costly repairs.
Having proper drainage control is vital for protecting commercial and residential properties, and URETEK Gulf Coast is here to help. Our Houston-based company is familiar with the Gulf Coast’s extreme weather patterns and has the drainage solutions to fit any type of property.
Contact URETEK today and schedule an estimate before extreme weather strikes.