Can Your House Withstand the Weather?

Houses have it tough when it comes to dealing with the weather. From the blistering heat to icy cold, your house has to deal with it all and everything in-between.

For you and your house, this can be really hard work. The weather can have a drastic effect on your house and after a few years of stormy summers and icy winters it can really show signs of wear.

You should check to make sure your house is ready to deal with the drastic weather it may face before it has to deal with it. Here are some things to look out for:

Check the outside

The outer walls and roof of your house will take the brunt of the bad weather. Obviously, this is the part the rain will hit and the snow will settle on. It’s built to withstand it but time can gradually reduce its effectiveness.

To start, make sure that your brickwork contains no big cracks. Check the roof of your house too; you don’t want any cracked or dislodged tiles as that can cause more problems. Cracks around your windows can let in water, so check carefully to be certain nothing can get in.

If the weather forecast predicts rain, check your gutter for cracks or blockages. A backlog of water could spill out and damage your house.

Make sure everything inside is in working order

Before winter you should be certain that your central heating and boiler are working correctly. The last thing you want is to be snowed in with a broken boiler, and no way of any outside help reaching you.

Windows and doors need to close correctly before any rain hits. The water can make things damp and cause mould, which can lead to health issues.

If you have a fire that you’ll be using in winter, make sure that your fire alarm is working correctly. Carbon monoxide detectors may also be needed depending on your fire; be sure to test these too.

Is there anything else you should consider?

Some houses are more at risk than others regarding harsh weather conditions. You should already know if your house is in a flood risk area, but if you’re uncertain it’s vital you find out.

Being ready for a flood before one develops can help you prevent a lot of damage to your house and belongings.

Check the internet and news for flood warnings during a storm and make sure you take it seriously. Moving belongings upstairs and away from potential flood water will save your money and grief later on. Placing sandbags in front of doors way before the water arrives will help to stem the flow later on.

You’ll also need to know where basic utilities are in your house. You should be ready to turn off the water, electricity and gas in your house quickly and without hassle in the event of a flood.

Photo from CDC.

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