Waterproof Your Home to Protect Building Materials & Indoor Air
The sight of water seeping in through the ceiling after a rainstorm is the stuff of nightmares for any homeowner.
Sadly, there are many ways for moisture to penetrate your home’s exterior and do considerable damage, both inside and out.
Precipitation and atmospheric humidity cause mold and mildew to grow in building materials, including wood, drywall, carpeting, window treatments and furniture. Without protective measures to treat and prevent water damage, a number of problems will emerge:
- Wood rot: Moisture causes wood to decay, which can do serious damage to walls, floors, trim and framing. Over time, untreated wood damage can weaken the structural integrity of the building itself.
- Pests: Many insects and other unwanted pests are attracted to moist environments. Examples include cockroaches, termites and mosquitoes.
- Cosmetic damage: Moisture-damaged paint will peel, crack or chip. Wood doors will swell and contract, causing them to become misshapen and get stuck in the door frame. Other wood elements will take on an unsightly warped appearance.
- Health problems: Mold and mildew cause respiratory illness and aggravate a number of conditions, such as allergies and asthma.
When you protect against moisture intrusion, you’re investing in the longevity of your home and your own health and wellbeing. Here are some helpful hints for keeping your home moisture-free for years to come.
Keep Your Home Sealed
Gaps and cracks will appear over time near your home’s foundation, around windows and doors and close to openings for plumbing, ductwork and wiring. These openings allow water to penetrate the building envelope. Left untreated, this phenomenon promotes mold, mildew and rot.
Sealing gaps and cracks is an easy way to keep moisture out while also boosting indoor air quality and energy efficiency. A high-quality caulk or spray foam is often sufficient. For gaps less than 1/4” wide, use caulk or expanding foam. Use a backer rod along with caulk or foam in gaps 1/4” or larger.
Apply a waterproof sealant to keep water from seeping through cracks and crevices in basement walls or floors. Check for leaks around doors, windows and other openings and repair them promptly.
Repaint as Needed
A fresh coat of high-quality paint does more than make your home look fabulous.
It also acts as a sealer to protect against moisture intrusion. Apply it to windows, doors, trim and other wood structures. Instead of waiting until the wood shows signs of damage, preventive painting at planned intervals is recommended for best long-term results. Consider repainting during dry seasons to prepare your home for rain, snow, ice and humidity.
Inspect & Repair Roofing Materials
Your roof includes much more than shingles. Other components include metal flashings to keep water from sneaking in around chimneys, skylights and other openings. Precipitation and ultraviolet light from the sun cause roofing materials to deteriorate over time, making your home more vulnerable to moisture leaks.
Invest in routine roof inspections to catch signs of trouble early. Have damaged components replaced as needed to keep your home properly sealed.
Prevent Clogs
Pipes and gutters are essential for directing water flow away from your home. Keeping them clear of dirt, leaves and other debris is one easy way to protect your home from moisture damage.
- Clean your gutters at least once a year and as needed after severe weather. Clogged downspouts can damage exterior building materials and lead to structural problems if not corrected.
- Keep window tracks clear of dirt and debris to prevent water from getting trapped on the surface.
Find High-Quality Building Materials
From high-quality lumber to a wide assortment of doors, windows, siding and more, Mid-City Lumber is your go-to source for materials for your next project. Our friendly staff is here to answer your questions and provide helpful advice on getting the job done right.
We encourage you to visit one of our locations in Columbia, Jefferson City, Boonville, Sedalia, Osage Beach or Linn Creek, or contact us online at any time!
