In our part of town, we may not get the full force of hurricanes like coastal regions do, but that doesn’t mean we’re in the clear. Heavy rain, flash floods, and windstorms still hit us hard, especially during the late summer and fall. At Rock Emergency, we’ve seen first-hand how unprepared homes can suffer serious damage from even moderate storms. Water damage, mold, basement flooding—it all adds up fast and needs to be addressed as quickly as possible.
The good news? A little preparation goes a long way. Whether you’re bracing for a big storm or just want to stay ahead of the rainy season, here are our top tips to help you protect your home—and your peace of mind.
Key Takeaways:
- Proactive Maintenance is Crucial: Regular inspection and maintenance of gutters, roofs, and foundations can prevent significant water damage.
- Address Water Entry Points: Seal cracks, ensure proper drainage, and elevate electrical systems and appliances to mitigate flood risks.
- Prepare for Emergencies: Install sump pumps, secure outdoor items, and create an emergency plan with your family.
- Understand Your Risks and Coverage: Know your property's flood risk and secure appropriate insurance, as standard policies often don't cover flood damage.
- Don't Hesitate to Call the Professionals: For extensive damage, recurring issues, or mold, professional help is essential for proper restoration.
1. Inspect and Maintain Your Gutters
Gutters are your home’s first line of defense against rain. If they’re clogged or damaged, water overflows and starts looking for a place to go—like your foundation or basement.
What to do:
- Clean gutters and downspouts at least twice a year or more often if you have overhanging trees.
- Make sure downspouts extend at least 4–6 feet away from your house.
- Check for sagging, leaks, or rusted sections and repair them promptly.
A backed-up gutter might not seem like a big deal until you’ve got two inches of water in your basement. With a little mindfulness and maintenance, this will be one less thing you have to worry about this rainy season
2. Check Your Roof for Weak Spots
Your roof takes the brunt of every storm. One loose shingle or small leak can lead to thousands of dollars in water damage.
What to do:
- Look for missing, cracked, or curling shingles.
- Pay attention to signs of leaks in the attic or ceiling (like water stains or musty smells).
- Don’t forget the flashing around vents, chimneys, and skylights. Those are weak points and should be given extra attention.
If you’re not comfortable getting up on the roof, hire a professional to do an inspection. It’s a small cost compared to a full roof replacement, storm damage restoration, or mold remediation.
3. Seal Cracks in Foundation and Walls
Water always follows the path of least resistance. Any crack in your foundation, even hairline-sized, is an open invitation.
What to do:
- Walk around your home and look for visible cracks in the foundation, basement walls, or around windows.
- Use a high-quality waterproof sealant to patch up small cracks.
- For larger gaps or recurring issues, consider professional foundation repair.
Don’t wait for water to find its way in—because it will.
4. Install a Sump Pump (or Test the One You Have)
If you live in Rochester, you know how quickly basements can flood. A working sump pump can be the difference between a dry basement and a disaster.
What to do:
- Make sure your sump pump is clean and connected to power.
- Test it by pouring a bucket of water into the pit. If it doesn't turn on, get it serviced or replaced.
- Consider a battery backup system in case the power goes out during a storm.
Pro tip: Install a water alarm in your basement. It’s a cheap early warning system that alerts you if flooding starts.
5. Elevate Electrical Systems and Appliances
Flooding doesn’t just damage floors and walls. It can also wreck your appliances and pose serious safety risks.
What to do:
- Elevate your washer, dryer, furnace, and water heater on platforms if they’re in a basement or low-lying area.
- Make sure electrical outlets, wiring, and switches are at least one foot above the potential flood level.
- If you’re doing any remodeling or upgrades, factor flood resilience into your plans.
Water and electricity don’t mix. Take precautions before you have a dangerous situation on your hands.
6. Secure Outdoor Items
Strong winds and heavy rain can turn yard items into flying projectiles or cause them to clog your drains.
What to do:
- Bring in lawn furniture, grills, and yard tools when storms are on the way.
- Secure garbage cans and recycling bins so they don’t blow over and block drains.
- Check that your landscaping isn’t sloped toward your house—that can direct water where you don’t want it.
A little outdoor prep helps keep your property safe and your drainage clear.
7. Know Your Flood Risk and Insurance Coverage
Most homeowners don’t realize that flood damage isn’t covered under standard home insurance policies. In Rochester and the surrounding areas, even areas that don’t seem flood-prone can surprise you.
What to do:
- Use FEMA’s flood maps to check your property’s risk level.
- Talk to your insurance agent about adding flood insurance, even if it’s not required.
- Keep an updated inventory of valuables and take photos of each room, just in case.
Having the right coverage gives you one less thing to stress about when the skies open up.
8. Create an Emergency Plan
Being prepared isn’t just about your house. It’s even more important to plan to keep your family and friends safe, too.
What to do:
- Know how to turn off your home’s electricity and gas in an emergency.
- Put together a storm kit with flashlights, batteries, water, non-perishable food, first aid, and essential medications.
- Keep important documents in a waterproof, portable container.
- Discuss evacuation routes and plans with your household.
You hope you’ll never need it, but if you do, you’ll be glad it’s ready.
9. Invest in Proper Drainage Systems
If your yard or driveway pools water after a heavy rain, that water’s going to try to get inside.
What to do:
- Install French drains or dry wells to redirect water away from your foundation.
- Grade your soil so that it slopes away from the house.
- Extend your gutter downspouts with flexible piping or splash blocks.
Good drainage isn't just for curb appeal, it’s the first line of defense against water damage for your property.
10. Know When to Call Professionals
Some jobs are DIY-friendly. Others? Not so much. If you notice recurring leaks, mold, or moisture problems, it’s time to bring in the pros.
Rock Emergency is here 24/7 for water damage, mold remediation, storm recovery, and emergency response. We serve homeowners across Rochester and the surrounding areas. We don’t just clean up the mess, we do what we can to make sure our neighbors don’t have to struggle with water damage in the future.
We use state-of-the-art drying equipment, moisture detection tools, and certified expertise to fully restore your space quickly, while treating you and your property with the respect you deserve during a stressful situation.
Storms are unpredictable. But protecting your home doesn’t have to be. Though we are not in a direct danger zone for hurricanes and more alarming storms, it's always important to be prepared. At Rock Emergency, we believe prevention is just as important as restoration. Take action now, and you’ll thank yourself later—especially when the skies turn dark and the rain starts falling.
If you ever find yourself facing water damage, mold, or storm cleanup, call Rock Emergency. We’re ready to respond 24/7, with trusted service and real solutions.
Stay safe. Stay dry. And remember—we’ve got your back. Reach out now for expert assistance with storm damage restoration and water damage restoration.