How to Prepare Your Home for Heat Waves

By theadmin

Last summer was the third-hottest summer on record in the U.S., and Texas sweltered in triple-digit temps for days on end. Heat waves like the one we experienced last summer are tough on everybody. They test our power grid, our landscaping, our patience, and even the structure of our homes — all the way from foundation to roof. Take these steps now to prepare for a heat wave this summer.

Water Your Foundation

Your home’s foundation is nestled in a cozy bed of moist soil, and when extreme heat zaps the moisture from the ground, the soil shrinks, causing gaps between the foundation’s footing and the soil supporting it. Gravity causes your home to sink and resettle, which may result in a cracked foundation. To prepare for a heat wave and prevent costly foundation repairs, water your lawn consistently, paying particular attention to areas where thirsty trees grow close to your home. Learn about the various styles of foundations in Texas and the signs you need to conduct a foundation inspection.

A Fresh Coat of Paint

All exterior paints fade over time in direct sunlight. Excessive heat also causes bubbling, chipping, and flaking. Beyond cosmetic woes, damage to paint leaves your home unprotected against moisture (and, later, mold). If you’re considering a new hue for your home, choose elastomeric paint, which is — you guessed it — more elastic in high temperatures, potentially preventing moisture damage down the road.

Protect Your Roof

Heat rises. So, naturally, your attic is the hottest part of the house. Maintaining good ventilation and clean ducts can go a long way in keeping the temperatures from soaring up there. Why does this matter? Because your attic sits right under your roof. Your shingles already bake in the sun all day, and when the attic underneath is also blistering hot, your shingles expand, warp, and crack, leaving an opening for leaks. High temperatures may also dry out the caulking around your roof’s flashing — a threat to the integrity of your roof. Install vapor barriers and seal the roof from UV rays. Discover more ways to keep your roof in tip-top shape and signs it’s time for new shingles.

Pay Attention to Your Pipes

Summer heat can cause plumbing issues just when you need water the most. High temperatures during a heat wave may cause pipes to expand and eventually burst. Unfortunately, you cannot do much after installing them to protect them from heat. The key is to identify and treat leaks ASAP. Sometimes, if the burst is underground, you won’t notice it immediately. Warning signs of a burst pipe include a sudden hike in your electric bill and lukewarm water when you twist the cold tap. If you suspect a leak, call your plumber ASAP to minimize damage.

Protecting the structure of your home during a heat wave is essential, but the people and pets inside are a top priority. Stay well hydrated and keep pets safe with these tips!