When the seasons change, most homeowners know what to expect. Summer calls for AC checks. Winter brings furnace inspections. But what happens when the skies turn gray, and the downpour begins? Many overlook one critical seasonal transition—the rainy season. Without proper preparation, rain can quietly damage your home, one drip at a time.
This is especially true in cities like Indianapolis, where the average annual rainfall reaches about 45 inches. That’s more than enough to expose weaknesses in your home’s exterior and lead to costly repairs.
If you’re wondering where to begin, this guide highlights eight steps every homeowner should take before the rains arrive. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a seasoned one, these tips will help keep your home dry, secure, and ready for the season ahead.
- Check and Repair Your Home’s Siding
Your siding isn’t just there to boost curb appeal; it protects your home from wind, debris, and rain. In areas that endure snow in winter and wet conditions in spring, like Indianapolis, siding often takes a beating. After months of freezing temperatures and thawing cycles, siding can crack, warp, or pull away from the wall.
Walk around your home and look closely for any signs of damage. Peeling paint, bubbling panels, or visible gaps can let water in. These small openings can lead to bigger issues, like rot or mold inside the walls. If the damage is widespread or hard to assess, it’s a good idea to bring in a professional Indianapolis siding replacement company. They have the experience to catch problems early and recommend a full or partial replacement if necessary.
- Clean Out Your Gutters
Rain is only a problem when your home can’t direct it away properly. Gutters are designed to do exactly that, but they won’t work if they’re full of leaves or dirt. Clogged gutters can overflow, letting water spill down your siding, seep into your basement, or erode your foundation.
Before the rainy season starts, take time to thoroughly clean your gutters. Remove all buildup and make sure the downspouts are clear. Water should flow easily through the system and away from your home’s base. For long-term ease, you can install gutter guards to help prevent buildup.
- Inspect the Roof for Leaks or Loose Shingles
Your roof is one of your home’s most important lines of defense, but it’s easy to overlook unless something goes wrong. Unfortunately, rainy weather will quickly find even the smallest weakness. That’s why an inspection before the rainy season is crucial.
Scan the roof for missing or damaged shingles. Look for lifting edges or areas that appear darker than the rest, which could indicate water absorption. Inside the attic, check for damp spots or mold. These can signal a slow leak that will only worsen with more rain. If you’re unsure about the condition of your roof, hire a licensed roofing contractor to assess it before leaks become costly repairs.
- Don’t Ignore Windows and Doors
Water doesn’t need much space to get inside your home. Over time, the caulking and seals around your windows and doors degrade. Rain can then sneak in through the gaps, damaging trim, drywall, and even flooring.
Go through your home and test each window and door for air drafts or visible cracks. If the caulking has worn out or pulled away, scrape it out and apply a fresh bead. Also, check the weather stripping and replace it if it’s brittle or missing. These simple updates keep moisture out and help your home stay energy-efficient as well.
- Ensure Proper Grading Around Your Home
When it comes to rain, water needs a clear exit path. If the soil around your home slopes toward the foundation, you’re asking for trouble. Poor grading leads to water pooling near the base of your home, which can slowly work its way into the basement or crawl space. Over time, this moisture can cause structural damage or even mold growth.
Carry out this inspection after moderate rain. If you see puddles forming near the foundation, it’s a sign that your grading may need work. Ideally, the ground should slope away from your house at a minimum of six inches over the first ten feet. If not, you can build up low areas with compacted soil.
- Trim Back Overhanging Trees and Shrubs
Rain and wind are a powerful combination (and one that can seriously damage your home). Overhanging tree branches can break during storms and fall onto your roof, damaging shingles and gutters. Even smaller limbs can knock loose roofing material or block your downspouts. Shrubs that grow too close to the house trap moisture against the walls and encourage mold or mildew.
Trim tree limbs so they don’t extend over your roof or come into contact with the siding. Keep a few feet of clearance between large plants and your home. If you’re unsure about how much to trim, a certified arborist can safely handle large trees and help shape them for long-term health.
- Store Outdoor Items Properly
Outdoor furniture, grills, and tools take a beating during storms if left exposed. Rain, wind, and debris can cause rust, cracks, or staining. Worse, unsecured items can become dangerous if high winds pick them up and toss them into your home’s siding or windows.
Before the rain sets in, store smaller items like cushions, toys, and tools in a garage or shed. Cover furniture with waterproof tarps or move it under a covered patio. If you have drainage around decks or patios, ensure it’s not blocked. Standing water in these areas can lead to wood rot or attract mosquitoes later on.
- Create an Emergency Plan and Rainy-Day Kit
Even with careful preparation, emergencies can arise. Power outages, flash floods, and leaks can happen quickly. Having a plan—and the right supplies—can help you respond faster and avoid panic when a problem arises.
Designate a place to keep your rainy-day essentials. Your kit should include a flashlight, some extra batteries, towels, plastic sheeting, and a few basic tools. Know how to shut off your water and electricity in case of flooding. It’s also smart to keep important documents in a waterproof container.
Rainy seasons can be tough on homes, but a little effort now prevents major headaches later. The best part is, you don’t need to be an expert to prepare your home for heavy rains (although you will require professional help for certain repairs). What you do need is awareness and a willingness to act before the weather changes. These eight steps will help keep your home dry, your stress low, and your repair bills minimal.
