We’ve reached that time of the year when we get to bid farewell to the scorching heat and welcome the refreshing monsoons. The air is filled with the scent of rain and lush greenery. However, amidst all this beauty the monsoon also brings in humidity, stagnant water and water-borne diseases. Our homes tend to suffer the most during the monsoon as the rains can cause dampness in the walls and furniture, resulting in leaky roofs and damp smelling clothes. Here are a few helpful tips to get your home monsoon ready.
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Start with a waterproofing check
The obvious first step is to do a pre-monsoon examination of your home. Look for possible leakages, cracks in your walls and ceiling, to begin with. If you detect even the smallest problem, be sure to get professional help to fix anything. Furthermore, if you live below the terrace, make sure you have the ceiling waterproofed. It will save you a lot of trouble in the long run and protect your home from mold and mildew.
Harvest rainwater
The crisis of water shortage is on the rise daily. If your home or apartment building does not have a rainwater harvesting (RWH) system in place, it would be highly beneficial for you to get one installed. In fact, rainwater harvesting has become mandatory for three storied buildings in Chennai. Furthermore, all Lancor homes come with resourceful features to conserve water.
Protect wooden flooring and furniture
Wood floors and your wooden furniture suffer the most during monsoons. They become damp and as a result, begin rotting away from the inside. To prevent your floors, furniture, and cupboards from deteriorating, ensure you wipe them daily with a dry cloth and soak up all the moisture. Never polish your furniture during the monsoons, as the moisture in the air will prevent the varnish from drying. When possible, cover up your furniture in plastic and store away things that you don’t necessarily need. Replace heavy carpets with bamboo mats or mats made with lighter materials. Carpets will soak up the moisture in the air and make your entire home feel damp. Not to mention, they can turn into an open invitation for bacteria and fungus to grow.
Keep your cupboards dry
Our cupboards and wardrobes are susceptible to damage due to dampness, termites and silverfish. To help protect your closets and the clothes inside them, begin by ensuring your clothes are completely dry before placing them in the cupboard. Place neem leaves, naphthalene balls or pieces of camphor in the corners to keep your closets fresh and dry.
Change linens frequently
The frequency with which you change your bed sheets, curtains, throws, etc. needs to be increased during the monsoons. Try to replace them at least once a week and do away with heavier fabrics that will take longer to dry. Instead, opt for cotton and other light materials.
Check for clogged drains
Blocked drains are a nightmare to deal with at any time of the year, but more so during the monsoon. Accumulated water and food particles can not just cause a blocked drainage system but will also act as a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other insects. Additionally, there will be a foul smell percolating through your home. Prevent this by de-clogging your drains at least once a week. Opt for spraying insecticides before the start of the monsoon. All this will contribute towards better waste management and keep your drain clog-free.
Secure loose electrical lines
Considering water is a good conductor of electricity and monsoons mean potential water-clogging around your home, it would be fatal to have loose electrical wires lying around. Before the onset of the monsoon, make sure you carefully secure any loose lines lying around. Disconnect sensitive electrical appliances like TVs, PCs, refrigerators and Wi-Fi routers during heavy storms to prevent possible short-circuiting.
Take care of your plants
While you do everything you can to take care of your home during the rains, your plants are often left forgotten. If you have a lawn or a garden, take time to de-weed and spray pesticide. Avoid too many indoor plants as they could add to the moisture and dampness inside your home. In addition, if you have any trees near your house, be sure to trim their branches. There is always the possibility of heavier branches breaking during a torrential downpour and damaging your home. If you enjoy gardening, read our blog on how to add greenery to your home with vertical gardens.
These steps, though a bit tedious, will make a huge difference in getting your home monsoon ready. If you’re looking to buy or invest in a new home, head over to Lancor for spacious homes that are as luxurious as they are eco-friendly.