Question: Good evening, Robert. As a new homeowner and someone new to the area, I’d like to begin my home ownership journey on the right foot. I know there have been some big rains recently and the home did pass inspection, so I’m assuming all is sound. What can I do now and in the future, to make sure that it remains sound through any weather? Are there things that I can do to prevent problems before any begin?
I have only read a few of your articles, as your column was recommended by a coworker. It sounds like you are a great source of information. I will likely be reaching out in the future. For now, I would be grateful for help with this question. Thank you.
— Joseph C.
Answer: Joseph, first, congratulations on your first home purchase and welcome to Santa Clarita. Yes, there are a few things that will reduce the risk of problems through the rainy season.
Primarily I’d do a roof inspection annually, either by a licensed and insured roofing contractor or, if you are able, yourself. Do this at the end of summer and prior to rains, and after the leaves fall. This is because the heat of our summers can dry and crack sealant, so it’s best to check at the end of the season so you can identify all areas of concern, plus debris can be removed.
Safety is priority so be sure you are versed in roof access safety. Choose a ladder that will reach above the roof line by 3 feet. This gives you something to hold on to while accessing or egressing the roof. Place the ladder a safe distance from the building to allow a proper angle without the potential of it sliding. Have someone else available, monitoring, for obvious reasons.
Check for debris on the roof and remove as necessary. Light debris is not a problem. It is when there are pockets or piles that the problems begin. Check all penetrations, making sure that sealant is intact. If you find areas where the sealant is cracked and/or missing, use Henry’s 208 mastic to recoat these areas. It’s a messy product, so wear gloves and plan on disposing of any brushes you use to apply.
Check the condition of whatever material your roof is made of. Curled, missing or broken pieces are an immediate need, so if you find this then it may be time to call a pro for evaluation.
Next, check on the area drains around the property. You can plug the drain similarly to plugging your sink drain. Run a garden hose to flood the area and then release the drain. Watch for good water flow and quick drainage. If this is slow, it is a sign that the drains are in need of clearing. Don’t wait on this one — get them cleared immediately after finding this out. I’ve seen water back up into homes, where the conditions are just right, creating a pool of water that has nowhere else to go.
If there are low areas where a pump is already installed to prevent flooding, annual checks of these pumps are necessary. They need to be in working order when they are called upon.
On the exterior of your home, check all penetrations such as windows, light fixtures and electrical boxes. Just like the roof, any penetrations going from outside to inside need to have proper seals to prevent water intrusion.
Anything questionable, you can always send me a photo and I can walk you through the process of repair. If you have further questions on specifics, please don’t hesitate to call on me again. I’m happy to help. Do maintain anything that wears or breaks on your home, immediately. It is easy to let things go but too much of this, and your home can quickly deteriorate and the value, as well. Best of luck.
Robert Lamoureux has more than 40 years of experience as a general contractor, with separate licenses in electrical and plumbing contracting. He owns IMS Construction Inc. in Valencia. His opinions are his own, not necessarily those of The Signal. Opinions expressed in this column are not meant to replace the recommendations of a qualified contractor after that contractor has made a thorough visual inspection. Email questions to Robert at [email protected].
