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Corpus Christi, TX is no stranger to heavy rain, especially during the summer. This part of Texas is located in a coastal region as well, which makes it susceptible to flooding.
The City of Corpus Christi reports that 2020 saw more than 15 inches of rain in parts of South Texas including Corpus Christi. This resulted in serious flash flooding which caused extensive damage to houses.
More recently, USA Today reported that tropical storm Harold damaged several homes across Texas including many in Corpus Christi. The storm hit right before September – one of the rainiest months in Corpus Christi.
Having established all that, you must protect your Corpus Christi home during the rainy season. Unless protection is provided through proper weatherproofing, the rain and storms can severely damage your home.
Here’s how you can go about weatherproofing your Corpus Christi home for the rainy season:
Inspect and Repair the Roof
One of the primary areas to focus on when weatherproofing your home is the roof. A well-maintained roof is your first line of defense against rain and other harsh elements.
Start by conducting a thorough inspection to identify any damaged or missing shingles, cracks, or leaks. Repair any issues promptly to prevent water from seeping into your home.
Don’t forget to check the condition of your roof’s flashing – the metal strips installed around openings like chimneys and vents. Damaged flashing can allow water infiltration, leading to water damage and mold growth.
If you’re not comfortable assessing your roof’s condition, consider hiring a professional roofing contractor to conduct a comprehensive inspection and perform necessary repairs. According to Forbes, minor roof repairs will cost you between $150 and $1,500. Major roof repairs, on the other hand, will cost you between $1,500 and $7,000.
The wise move here would be to opt for minor repairs before the onset of the rainy season. Otherwise, you might have to spend a lot of money on major repairs after the rain and storms have done the damage.
Ensure Adequate Exterior Drainage
Beyond gutters and downspouts, it’s essential to assess the overall drainage around your property. Poor exterior drainage can lead to water pooling near the foundation, increasing the risk of basement leaks and structural damage. Grade the soil away from your home to encourage proper water runoff.
Inspect the slopes around your property to ensure water flows away from the foundation. If needed, add soil to create a positive slope away from the house. Consider installing a French drain or other drainage solutions in areas prone to water accumulation.
Also, it’s been often seen that when it rains heavily, house sidings have to bear the brunt of it all. Therefore, don’t hesitate to work on this aspect of your house as well. The best approach here would be to work with a contractor who specializes in installing vinyl siding in Corpus Christi.
According to Americraft Siding & Windows, vinyl siding is lightweight, affordable, and long-lasting. It’s also easy to install this type of siding on houses and other structures. These sidings are very popular throughout Texas, mostly because their installation process is not time-consuming.
Protect Outdoor Furniture and Equipment
Outdoor furniture, tools, and equipment are often exposed to the elements and can suffer damage during the rainy season. To prolong their lifespan and maintain their functionality, take proactive measures to protect them. Invest in weatherproof covers for patio furniture, grills, and gardening tools.
Store items that are susceptible to water damage in a covered area or shed. If you don’t have a dedicated storage space, consider building a waterproof storage box or investing in weather-resistant storage containers. Taking these steps will not only preserve the appearance and functionality of your outdoor items but also prevent potential safety hazards.
If you have a pergola, you need to protect that as well. In Corpus Christi, pergolas aren’t that uncommon. People here enjoy outdoor living, and they want their outdoor space or yard to look somewhat fancy. Thus, many locals opt for pergolas.
However, during the rain, pergolas can be easily damaged. Hence, you should consider investing in pergola covers to protect them from the rain. The covers will also help prevent dust and debris from accumulating in and around your pergola.
Install Storm Windows and Doors
For an extra layer of protection against the elements, consider installing storm windows and doors. These additions provide an additional barrier against rain, wind, and drafts.
Storm doors, on the other hand, offer an added layer of security and weather resistance for your entryways. They can be installed in front of exterior doors and come in various styles, including full-view and partial-view options.
Choosing the right storm windows and doors for your home can significantly enhance its ability to withstand the challenges posed by the rainy season.
In conclusion, weatherproofing your home for the rainy season is a proactive and essential step to ensure the comfort and longevity of your property. By focusing on the above-mentioned points, you can create a resilient barrier against the challenges posed by heavy rainfall.
Regular maintenance and timely repairs will go a long way in protecting your Corpus Christi home from water damage and maintaining its structural integrity.
