RAINPROOFING YOUR HOME

THE MONSOON IS HERE. SOME SIMPLE STEPS WILL ENSURE YOUR HOUSE IS SAFE FROM THE RAINS.

The rains can be a source of many problems within a house. Rain proofing your home or protecting it from the monsoons is therefore vital during this season. One important need for homes and gardens is adequate sunlight. Make some small changes in your spaces to compensate for the lack of this during the rainy season.

Since rooms tend to get darker during daytime from lack of enough light, replace heavy drapes with light ones and in pastel shades so that more light filters through. Roll up the blinds during the day, especially those in verandahs and terraces so that they allow light to enter.

A skylight works well especially during the rainy season (and winter too) since it brings in additional light and warmth to the home. So, it is good to install one, along with safety features, while building a home. Windowsills need to be cleared of any lightweight planters and decor objects since the strong winds that often accompany heavy rains can blow these away or cause them to fall down. Any open showcase near a window should be kept closed or else the water from any drizzle and the resulting dampness can damage the objects placed there.

If your home has children, pets, and visitors going in and out of the home regularly, then roll up any large, expensive carpets and put them away. Small rugs centrally placed in the room are a better idea. Also, have some extra-absorbent doormats (two of them placed side by side work best) in areas likely to be exposed to the rains like the porch, front verandah, entrance, foyer etc.

Dampness is harmful to clothes, books, and also to furniture and accessories especially those made of wood and leather which develop fungus and other problems. So, keep them away from windows and doors i.e. in dry areas and periodically check them and give them a makeover if necessary. If possible, have your books and wood furniture put out in direct sunlight for a few hours, every fortnight or so. Also, check your wardrobes and cupboards regularly for dampness.

Exposed electrical wiring should be covered up. Water logging can be damaging to the walls and foundation besides being a health hazard. Check for any area prone to water-logging whether in the garden, terrace, or garage. Cracks in doors, windows, and walls should be sealed to prevent seepage of rainwater indoors. Plug all sewer traps with special check valves so that water doesn't back up and flood the home. You could also make the most of this monsoon by using rain water harvesting methods in your terrace and garden areas.

Courtesy: - ET Realty dtd:- 29th August 2008