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HOW TO PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR THE RAINY SEASON Before the rainy season starts, make sure you have all the right tools for the job! A sturdy ladder is always a good place to start, followed by a sharp pair of shears, and robust garden gloves. Here are some key points we think you should consider when preparing your home for the next season; 1. Clean your gutters a. One of the first things to do when preparing your home for the rainy season, is to ensure your gutters aren’t leaking, broken or blocked. Gutters are designed to catch rainwater and direct it away from your foundation thereby protecting the integrity of your home. However, gutters often become clogged with foliage and debris over time, and this can inhibit their functionality and effectiveness, potentially leading to damage. 2. Cover and Protect outdoor furniture a. In order to increase the lifespan of your outdoor furniture, ensure to protect it, not only from the rain, but also from all the other elements. This can be done by storing it under a protective shelter, such as a shed, or by covering it in a waterproof material. 3. Trim your trees a. In order to avoid damage from falling branches, have your trees trimmed. Try to remove any branches that that could cause damage by falling on your roof tiles, solar panels or power lines. 4. Service your generator a. It’s always a good idea to have a backup power source. Rainy weather can limit the irradiation of your solar panels, and falling trees and branches pose the risk your interrupting the power supply of the main grid. 5. Check and clean your drainage systems a. To avoid flooding and water logging, check your drainage systems and clear them of all debris that may have accumulated over time. 6. Check your electrical wirings a. Thoroughly safeguard your external plug points and cables for any exposed wires that could result in an electrical short. Over time, and when exposed to excessive amounts of sun, cables can perish and leave wires exposed. While this list is not exhaustive, it’s a good place to start. Keep an eye out for any other problem areas that may require attention leading up to the wet weather. 12
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