Monsoon Prep

Monsoon Mayhem? Not on Our Watch: Your Ultimate Guide to Prepping Gutters and Your Home's Exterior

The air gets thick, the sky turns a dramatic shade of gray, and that familiar scent of rain on dry earth fills the air. It can only mean one thing: monsoon season is here. While the rain is a welcome relief from the heat, the powerful storms, high winds, and torrential downpours can wreak havoc on your home if you're not prepared.

The last thing you want is a flooded basement, a damaged roof, or a leaky ceiling. The good news is, a little proactive work now can save you a world of trouble (and a lot of money) later. Here's your essential checklist for getting your gutters and home exterior ready for the monsoon onslaught.

1. The Gutter Gauntlet: Your First Line of Defense

Your gutters are your home's drainage system. They're designed to channel water away from your roof, siding, and foundation. When they're clogged, they become a liability.

• Clean Them Out, Thoroughly: This is the most critical step. Get a ladder, a pair of gloves, and a bucket. Scoop out all the leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris that has accumulated over the dry months. A garden hose with a strong nozzle can help flush out the remaining gunk. Don't forget to check the downspouts! If water isn't flowing freely, use a plumber's snake or a strong stream of water to dislodge the clog.

• Check for Leaks and Damage: While you're up there, inspect your gutters for any cracks, rust spots, or misaligned sections. Heavy rain can quickly exploit these weaknesses, leading to leaks that can damage your siding and foundation. Use a sealant designed for metal or vinyl gutters to fix small cracks. For larger damage, it might be time to replace that section.

• Secure and Align: Ensure your gutters are securely attached to the fascia board. Loose gutters can be ripped off by high winds or the sheer weight of standing water. Also, check that they have the proper slope. They should be angled slightly toward the downspouts to ensure proper drainage.

2. Don't Forget the Roof

Your gutters can't do their job if your roof isn't in good shape. The monsoon storms are infamous for bringing high winds that can lift and damage shingles.

• Inspect Shingles and Flashing: From the safety of the ground (or with a securely placed ladder), use binoculars to look for any loose, cracked, or missing shingles. Pay close attention to the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights. This is a common area for leaks to develop. If you spot any issues, it's best to call a professional roofer for an inspection and repairs.

• Trim Overhanging Branches: The high winds of a monsoon storm can easily snap off a dead or weak tree branch. Make sure to trim any branches that are hanging over your roof or too close to your home. This simple act can prevent major roof damage and even broken windows.

3. Secure the Perimeter: Your Home's Exterior

Gutters and roofs are just the beginning. The rest of your home's exterior needs attention too.

• Check Windows and Doors: Inspect the caulking and weather stripping around all windows and doors. Over time, these materials can crack and shrink, creating small gaps where water can seep in. A new bead of exterior-grade caulk can be a quick and effective fix.

• Clean and Inspect Drains and Grates: If you have any drains or grates in your yard or driveway, make sure they are clear of debris. Clogged drains can lead to localized flooding around your home's foundation.

• Stow Away Outdoor Items: Secure any loose items in your yard. Patio furniture, trampolines, grills, and even garbage cans can become projectiles in a strong wind gust. Bring what you can inside, and securely tie down or brace anything that must stay out.

The Takeaway

Monsoon season is a powerful force of nature. By taking a few hours to prepare your gutters and home exterior, you're not just crossing items off a checklist—you're investing in your home's safety and your own peace of mind. So grab your gloves, get to work, and get ready to enjoy the dramatic beauty of the monsoon, knowing your home is safe and sound.