Getting Ready for Spring

March 18, 2025 Announcements

Water: it's great for humans (and groundhogs!), but it can be terrible for your home if not managed well.

In this first edition of Maintenance Matters, our world-class construction team, led by Ryan Rathburn with ongoing support from Hunter Kick, has a few tips to ensure your home is ready as spring showers approach.

Gutters and downspouts are essential because they manage water flow and protect your home from water damage by directing precipitation away from your home's foundation. A gutter system helps to prevent soil erosion, water infiltration, and foundation damage. For a gutter system to work correctly, the gutters must be secured tightly to the fascia and have a continual pitch toward the downspouts.

Downspouts should be extended 4-6 feet from the structure to ensure the discharged water does not concentrate at the foundation. This helps reduce water building up around the foundation, making its way inside, and reduces hydraulic pressures pushing in on the foundation walls.

Keeping the basement dry does not stop at maintaining a gutter system. A dehumidifier should be continually run in basements, especially during wet seasons. Why would anyone need a dehumidifier in the basement, even if water accumulation is not present? A dehumidifier in a basement prevents mold and mildew growth by removing excess moisture, which can significantly damage belongings, compromise structural integrity, and create unhealthy air quality.

Using a dehumidifier can also help with eliminating musty smells and discourage pests such as termites from infiltrating the home. This small piece of equipment usually costs between $100-$300 and can be installed directly by the homeowner. It could save you thousands of dollars in repair costs.

The appliance works by drawing in humid air and passing it over refrigerated coils, which causes the moisture in the air to condense and collect as water droplets in a pan or reservoir. The dry air is then released into the room, creating a more air-controlled environment. Though a dehumidifier is not usually necessary in the dryer winter, it is strongly recommended during spring, summer, and fall.

Need more advice about your own home? Our Home Preservation Initiative is an excellent resource for property owners in Lucas County.