Tips to prepare your home for the monsoon

Dark clouds have started swelling in the skies with specks of rain here and there. Monsoon is here! A much relief from the sweltering summer heat but with ample rains that is the speciality of Indian monsoons, it takes a considerable toll on our house. The constant dampness, occasional seepage due to heavy rains, humidity, sewage blocks are some common problems faced during the monsoons. 

Is your house monsoon-ready? Here are a few tips to take care of all the monsoon-related problems.

1. Repair all leakage and seepage

This is a very general problem that people are worried about as soon as heavy downpour starts.  Tiny cracks and hairline crevices are common on the walls of our homes. One tiny crack in the wall is enough for rainwater to seep in stealthily and turn your house into an aquarium. The best option, therefore, would be to waterproof your wall from the inside as well as outside. If you are staying in an area prone to heavy rainfall, waterproofing the walls keep it safe for 5-6 years but it is best if you check for its effectiveness every year and also for further development of cracks.

If you see a damp swelling on your newly painted wall, it is a sign of leakage in the external pipes. Apartments these days have mostly metal framed doors and windows, check for any cracks and gaps. Seal them properly to prevent rainwater from seeping through them. 

2. Unclog blocked sewage

Blocked drains, pipes and overflowing sewage are a nuisance during the monsoons. If you are staying in an independent house, make sure to inform the municipal authorities to clear out the debris choking the surrounding drains. If you are staying in an apartment, the association body must take care of keeping the surrounding cleans and get in touch with the local concerned authority to clear the sewage pipes. 

Unclogging the drains and keeping the vicinity clean not only keeps away foul odours but also prevents the breeding of insects. This protects against diseases. For further protection, sprinkle bleaching powder around your house.

3. Change linens once every week

The heavy rainfall, absence of sunlight and persistent dampness can damage and discolour your bed linens permanently. It might be difficult to dry those pillow covers, bed sheets or cushion covers, but cleaning them every week during the monsoon is a wise decision to avoid the damp smell.

Swap the heavy blackout summer curtains for lighter fabric curtains to let in sunlight and breeze during monsoons. Opt for brighter colours like sunshine yellows and fiery oranges to uplift the mood. 

4. Stock on disinfectants

It’s monsoon, the breeding season of those annoying insects, bugs and cockroaches. Always keep disinfectants handy to get rid of unwanted roaches and prevent the spread of sickness. Check every nook and corner of your house, especially the kitchen. Clean the kitchen cabinets once in a while and always wash plates, bowls or spoons before having a meal. 

5. Extra care for books

Cosying up in a corner with a cup of hot chocolate and a gripping thriller book while rain droplets race through the window pane; you are definitely an avid book reader! You might also have a huge collection of books but monsoons bring irreparable damage to your books due to the moisture. A simple tip would be to store them in shelves and cabinets with moisture absorbents and naphthalene balls. They keep out foul odours and book-eating bugs. 

Rains are meant to be enjoyed to the fullest. Don’t let any unwanted surprises ruin your fun. Keep your home cosy and protected. 

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