Top 8 Steps to Take at Your House After a Rainstorm
When a heavy rainstorm hits, your home is vulnerable to water damage and structural issues that aren’t always immediately visible. It’s important to take the right steps to inspect your home and prevent future problems.
Below, we’ll walk through the top 8 steps you should take after a rainstorm to ensure your home stays protected.
Steps to Take After a Rainstorm
1. Conduct a Crawl Space Inspection
A crawl space inspection is one of the most important things to do after a rainstorm. Crawl spaces are especially prone to water accumulation and moisture buildup, leading to mold growth, wood rot, or structural damage.
Check for standing water or damp spots in this area, as well as any signs of foundation sinking that could indicate deeper issues. Keep in mind that crawl spaces can be tight and potentially dangerous to navigate, so it’s a good idea to consider hiring a professional to thoroughly inspect your crawl space.
2. Perform a Drainage Evaluation
An essential task after a storm is a drainage evaluation around your home. Check your gutters and downspouts to ensure they’re properly directing water away from your foundation. Look for any areas where water is pooling near the foundation, which could lead to leaks or long-term foundation problems.
3. Inspect the House During a Rainstorm for Signs of Water Infiltration
If you can, inspect your house during a rainstorm for any areas where water may be entering. This will give you a clear idea of weak points in your home’s structure that need to be addressed. Look for water dripping through windows, doors, or cracks in your walls.
4. Identify Leaks in Your Roof or Attic
After a rainstorm, it’s important to go through your home and identify leaks in areas like the roof or attic. Check for wet insulation, dark spots on the ceiling, or any mold growth, which are clear signs of water infiltration. Early detection of leaks can prevent more severe damage over time.
5. Check Your Home for Water Damage
Water damage inside your home is a common issue after heavy rain. Check the walls and floors for any signs of dampness, puddles, or leaks. If you notice any standing water or musty odors, it’s crucial to address them immediately to avoid long-term water damage and mold growth.
6. Inspect Exterior Walls and Foundation for Cracks
A storm can cause or exacerbate cracks in your home’s exterior walls and foundation. Walk around the outside of your house and examine the foundation for any signs of new or widening cracks. Even tiny cracks can lead to serious issues over time, especially if they allow water to seep in.
A professional inspection from Groundworks provides peace of mind.
7. Examine Windows and Doors for Leaks
Windows and doors can be entry points for water during a storm. Inspect the seals around windows and doors to ensure they are intact. If water has leaked through, replace the weather stripping or caulking to keep moisture out in the future.
8. Ensure Your Sump Pump Is Working Properly
If you have a sump pump, it’s crucial to check that it is functioning correctly after a rainstorm. A failed sump pump can lead to significant flooding in your crawl space, causing costly water damage.
Test the pump by pouring water into the sump pit and ensure it activates as expected.
Be Storm Ready with Groundworks
After a rainstorm, taking these steps can help you assess potential damage and prevent larger issues from arising.
Whether it’s a crawl space inspection, drainage evaluation, or checking for leaks, being proactive will help you safeguard your home against future storms.
If you find signs of water damage or need professional assistance with repairs, contact Groundworks for an expert, free inspection.
A professional inspection allows for total peace of mind. At Groundworks, we’re eager to do just that!
Crawl Space Inspection FAQ's
Inspect ceilings, walls, and around windows and doors for any water stains, drips, or visible leaks.
Proper drainage systems and crawl space encapsulation can help prevent water from entering your crawl space.
Inspect your crawl space after any major rainstorm and at least twice a year as part of regular home maintenance.
