7 Handy Tips To Make Your Home Monsoon Ready

Monsoon arrives every year and brings with it a host of problems like clogged roads, traffic jams and water-borne diseases. If care is not taken, heavy downpour can also damage the structure of the house and greatly affect its resale value. Constant contact with water can discolour exterior walls whereas dampness inside can be unpleasant, too. No doubt, we love the rains but some do-it-yourself (DIY) measures to shield the house can make the season more enjoyable for you and your family.

MakaanIQ gives seven handy tips to make your home monsoon-proof:

Inspect your roof

Water seepage can weaken the ceilings and walls of your home. Check for leaks, cracked tiles or openings from where the water could seep in. Also, keep cleaning the places where the water stagnates. This, otherwise, could become a possible breeding ground for mosquitoes. Moulds or water rings on walls or ceilings is a sign of water leakage, too, and need immediate attention and repair.

Check the drainage

Hire a professional to inspect the drainage system of your home for any blockage or leakage. Gutters and downspouts should be clear. Unblock them if there are any leaves or debris clogging them. If there are rusty spots on them, clean them using sandpaper.

Control moisture levels

Bacteria grows in moist conditions and can spoil your expensive wooden furniture articles, causing them to swell. Use camphor or neem leaves inside the cabinets and wardrobes. These two are known to absorb moisture. Light-scented candles can be placed in rooms as these will not only remove the damp smell caused by the rains but also reduce moisture levels to a great extent. Fill gaps between bathroom tiles to avoid fungus.

Check electrical wirings and gadgets

Check for any faulty or loose wiring in your house. Closely monitor electrical sockets and gadget panels for water seepage, loose connections or naked wires. Get them repaired as soon as possible with help of an electrician. Power overload can lead to short circuits and sudden blow-offs. Install a stabiliser to handle this. Use plastic covers to shield the appliances or electrical gadgets. Unplug them when not in use.

Water-proof the walls

Repaint the exterior walls and metal-framed windows using waterproof paint. For interior walls, contact a mason to treat them with water-resistant materials like putty to fill up the pores. This will prevent chipping of the paint and also keep water seepage at bay. 

Outdoor Protection

Install sturdy window shades or awnings over balconies or windows to prevent rainwater from entering the home. Use a waterproof cover to protect outdoor furniture including garden equipment and barbecue. If possible bring the furniture indoors.

Get rid of carpets, floor rugs and curtains

It is advisable to pack and store the expensive carpets or rugs inside the cabinets as they can catch moisture and get dirty. Take off the heavy drapery and replace them with translucent or lacy curtains.