JOIN USAre the rains wreaking havoc on your homes? Worry not, as Natasha Menezes lists a few measures to minimise the damage.
With the precluding deadly heat of summers gone by, rains are most definitely a welcome relief. Ravages of the Monsoon season, however, can bear its toll; not just on a country's infrastructure but also rain havoc on our homes. But by taking few simple measures, one can prolong the look and life of their home’s interiors as well as exteriors. Remember it is not just the structural exteriors that need attention but due to the added humidity in the atmosphere, certain damages to interiors can also take place. With little bit of care and caution, future colossal damages can be avoided. Besides, with the cosiness that this weather has to offer, one can also pep-up the mood by splashing bright hues and contrasts all around.
Structural changes
Repaint the outer walls with water-proof paint to avoid damages to them. Water sealant is a special liquid that can be applied like paint. It protects concrete walls and paint can be applied to the walls after adding this water sealant. This will give the exteriors maximum protection from rains. Before the monsoon season sets in, it is essential to fill up the gaps and cracks in the wall and ceiling areas with Plaster of Paris, cement or wall care putty. These are water resistant constituents that help reduce the seepage of water through tiny nooks and crevices. They also ensure that the paint lies unchipped even when damp from the moisture, thus providing a smooth surface along the painted textures.
Metallic frames used for windows and doors have a tendency of rusting in the monsoons. Hence, ensure that they are repainted with water resistant paint right before the commencement of the season. If your wooden doors have expanded, it is most likely because it has not been fixed tightly into its frame or that the hinges are loose. So get your door fixed back into the frame by a carpenter immediately. Even after this is done and a section of your wooden door still looks swollen, brush its extra edges with a sandpaper, which is readily available in the market.
Short circuits
Due to dampness in the walls, there could be high occurrence of short circuits during monsoons. To prevent this situation, get an electrician to scan the entire house for loose ends and damaged wires. Fix even the most minor of electrical problems as they could be dangerous during the rainy season. If you are using multi plugs to connect different gadgets or electrical points, make sure that the socket is tight, wiring is safe and that there is no power overload.
Drainage problems could be a nightmare in the rainy season. So try and get a plumber to clean the drain pipes of all waste matter as well as fix the leakages prior to monsoon season setting in. If your pipes are rusted, get new ones immediately. Unclog the terrace and garden drains too. Water-proof tarpaulin can be handy for your balcony and outdoor seating areas.
Indoor adjustments
It is recommended to stow away your carpets in a clean dry place under a thick plastic sheet as the humidity is not good for them. A better option is using bamboo mats and acrylic carpets, both of which are water proof. Door mats at the entry points of your house could serve to remove the dirt brought in by soiled shoes. Rains could add dampness to your furniture and also leave them with foul odour. This dampness also serves as a breeding ground for fungal growth.
The latter can be taken care of by applying antiseptic to the infected area . Also, it is recommended to vacuum clean your furniture regularly. Use of a dehumidifier during monsoons can help preserve the life of your furniture. To avoid fungal growth inside your cupboard, leave some camphor tablets or naphthalene balls inside it.
Do not store wet or damp clothes in the wardrobe. Call a pest control person to clean your house off insects and pests. Indoor plants should be kept outside as they leave moisture into the air during rainy season. This can lead to dampness inside the house. If needed, bring in artificial plants instead.
Keep a basket at the entrance for wet umbrellas. Also create a space for wet footwear. Replace your heavy curtains and bed sheets with light fabric to make it more bright and inviting.
Incense sticks, potpourri, candles can leave a sweet fragrance to your home; use them generously. Finally, to lift the spirits of your home add a dash of colour like shades of red, yellow, orange or blue to home accessories. Do not use dull monotones like greys. Also avoid pastels as they cannot be washed easily.
So with a little attention to these minor details, one can make the most of this lovely weather!