How to Prevent Water Damage in New York’s Rainy and Snowy Seasons

Water damage is a constant concern for New Yorkers, especially in the wetter months. Since the city receives its fair share of rain and snowfall, the risk of water damage increases significantly. New York residents can take the below steps to mitigate water damage during the city’s rainy and snowy seasons.

Regularly Inspect Your Roof and Gutters

Your roof is your first defense against the weather. Inspect it every six months for points of weakness that could eventually cause leaks, such as missing shingles, cracks in seams, or other types of wear and tear. 

Clear out your gutters to prevent debris from clogging them, which can lead to water runoff spilling over, pooling around your foundation, and even seeping into your basement over time.

Pro Tip:

Install gutter guards to minimize debris buildup and reduce the need for frequent cleaning.

Seal Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are frequent places for water entry. Over the years, the caulking and weather-stripping can fail to perform well, and water will get in. Check the caulking and weather-stripping around the windows and doors. If they look worn, replace them. This can guard against water entry and also tighten up your home's energy efficiency.

Maintain Your Sump Pump

If you have a basement, at minimum, have a sump pump and check it periodically to be sure it’s working. If possible, install a battery backup so your pump will keep working during power outages, which often occur during a heavy storm.

Insulate Pipes

Freezing pipes can burst and break, causing serious water damage that would be expensive to repair. Pipes that are subject to freezing, especially in rarely heated areas such as basements or attics, should be insulated. Pipe insulation is an inexpensive precaution that can save you from costly repairs.

Direct Water Away from Your Foundation

Ensure that the surrounding land slopes away from the foundation, to allow water to naturally drain away from the structure. If your land is flat, consider installing a French drain or extending downspouts to carry water further away.

Regularly Check Your Home's Interior

Beyond outer defenses, check your home’s interior periodically for evidence of water infiltration. Look for any water-damaged areas, such as dark splotches on walls or ceilings. Musty odors can be a clue to hidden water damage or mold growth. Catching problems early can help prevent more serious damage and costly repairs.

Install a Water Detection System

Modern technology provides a quick solution to prevent water damage to a home by setting up water detection systems to alert you to leaks before they cause costly damage. Ideal places for the system are those prone to leak, such as under the sink and beside the water heater.

Stay Informed About Weather Conditions

Finally, staying informed helps you prepare for incoming inclement weather. Are big storms or heavy snow on the way? Download a weather app or check localized alerts to track the weather and take action in advance, such as shoveling snow away from the foundation or reinforcing windows before a storm arrives.

Concluding Thoughts

With these preventive measures, you can drastically lower the probability of water damage to your New York house. Besides saving you on repair costs, you will also create a safe and comfortable living space for yourself and your family. 

Remember, a little preventive action goes a long way in protecting your New York home from treacherous weather. And if water damage occurs, don’t hesitate to call water damage specialists from nycrestoration.com/ for immediate repair.