Season of Storms: Home Maintenance Habits That Can Save You Thousands

Every year, storm season brings a new wave of home repair bills. From heavy rain to high winds, even a quick summer storm can leave behind serious damage. In places like Northwest Arkansas, where strong weather often hits with little warning, small issues can quickly become big expenses. 

The good news is that regular home maintenance—done on time and with care—can prevent many of these costly problems. Whether it's your roof, gutters, or the trees in your yard, a few simple habits can protect your home. And while each home is different, most storm-related damage starts the same way: from something that could've been fixed earlier. 

Let's look at the most practical ways to prepare before the next storm hits.

1. Schedule a Seasonal Roof Inspection

The roof takes the brunt of storm damage. Missing shingles, lifted edges, or small cracks might not seem urgent, but they allow water to seep in and damage the inside of your home. A roof inspection before storm season helps catch these small problems early. It also gives you a clear picture of your roof's condition.

Experts offering Professional roofing services in Northwest Arkansas and beyond provide detailed inspections, helping homeowners understand what repairs, if any, are needed. These services can also include quick fixes, like sealing flashing or replacing damaged shingles. Many local contractors also document the condition of the roof, which helps if you later need to file an insurance claim.

2. Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters don't just overflow—they direct water toward your roof and foundation. That leads to problems like mold, rotting wood, and basement leaks. Cleaning your gutters before storm season is an easy way to prevent water damage.

Check for leaves, sticks, or any buildup that might stop water from flowing freely. Downspouts should send water at least three feet away from your house. If not, use extensions or splash blocks to guide it away. For extra peace of mind, you can install gutter guards or call a service provider to do a full system check.

3. Trim Trees Near the Home

Storms often snap branches or uproot trees, especially if the ground is wet or the winds are strong. Overhanging limbs that seem harmless on a calm day can become dangerous projectiles in a storm.

Inspect trees near your home. Look for branches that hang over the roof, driveway, or power lines. Remove weak or dead limbs that could fall. If the tree is large or close to a structure, it's safer to call a professional. This quick step can prevent roof punctures, broken windows, or worse.

4. Check the Exterior for Weak Spots

Your siding, windows, and doors also face direct pressure during a storm. Loose panels, cracked seals, or warped frames may allow wind and rain to get inside.

Walk around your home and look for gaps in caulking, loose siding, or anything that looks out of place. Replace cracked sealant around windows and doors. Also, check for signs of past water damage—discoloration, mildew, or softwood near entry points. Regular maintenance of these areas reduces your chances of storm damage and improves energy efficiency, too.

5. Test Backup Power and Drainage Options

Power outages and flooded yards often follow big storms. A working sump pump, battery backup, or generator can prevent long-term issues.

Make sure your sump pump is clean and connected to a proper discharge line. If your area is known for outages, consider a small generator to keep vital systems running. Even a portable unit can power a sump pump or refrigerator for a short time. These tools give you some control during unpredictable weather.

6. Keep a Home Maintenance Checklist during the Season of Storms

Having a plan makes seasonal upkeep easier. Create a list of things to check every spring and fall, like roof inspections, gutter cleaning, tree trimming, and sealing exterior openings.

Update it after each storm. Note any damage, repairs made, or future tasks. A simple checklist helps you stay ahead of wear and tear and reduces the chance of forgetting something important. It also gives you a record, which can be useful if you ever need to file a claim or sell your home.

Conclusion 

A few routine checks and minor repairs can prevent major expenses after a storm. Storm season isn't going away, but your home can be better prepared for it. Start with simple steps now, and you'll be ready when the next storm rolls in. Need help getting started? Reach out to trusted local professionals for advice, inspections, or storm repair services.