sunpatriot. com Spring Home & Garden • Thursday, April 16, 2026 Page 5
SPRING HOME & GARDEN | WEATHERING THE WEATHER
Preparing for Spring Storms
Preparing ahead of time can help protect your home from damage and keep your family safe when storms roll through. A few practical steps such as inspecting the roof, clearing gutters, trimming trees and checking emergency equipment can make a big difference.
INSPECTING THE ROOF AND GUTTERS
A secure roof is one of the most important defenses against spring storms. Look for loose shingles, cracked flashing or signs of wear that could lead to leaks. Binoculars can help with a ground-level inspection, but if you are unsure about what to look for, hiring a professional roofer is often the safest option. Early repairs prevent small issues from turning into major water damage during heavy rain.
Gutters and downspouts need attention. Leaves, twigs and debris can block the flow of water and cause overflow that damages siding or foundations. Clearing gutters before the rainy season allows stormwater to drain properly away from the home.
PREPARING TREES AND OUTDOOR AREAS
Tree limbs that hang close to a roof, deck or power line can become dangerous during spring storms. Strong winds may break or weaken branches, putting structures at risk. Trimming limbs now helps reduce the chance of falling debris. A certified arborist can evaluate unhealthy or leaning trees and recommend whether pruning or
Contact us today for a Free Estimate! www. plehal. com • 952-445-7676
removal is needed.
Secure outdoor equipment. Patio furniture, planters and lightweight decorations can become hazardous if winds pick up.
CHECKING SUMP PUMPS AND DRAINAGE
Heavy spring rains can quickly overwhelm basements or low-lying areas of a property. Test sump pumps before storms arrive to ensure they are working properly. Pouring a small amount of water into the pit can help confirm the pump activates and removes water as expected.
Check exterior drainage. Ensuring soil slopes slightly away from the house helps direct water away from the foundation. French drains, swales or downspout extensions may help improve runoff in areas prone to moisture problems.
BUILDING OR UPDATING AN EMERGENCY KIT
Every household needs a basic emergency kit for storm season. This typically includes flashlights, extra batteries, bottled water, nonperishable food, a first-aid kit and necessary medications. Portable chargers and a battery-powered weather radio can also help families stay informed if power goes out.
It is wise to gather important documents in a waterproof folder and keep them in an easily accessible spot. Families with pets should include food, carriers or leashes in their emergency supplies.
Our services include:
• Residential Driveways
• Commercial Parking Lots
• Roadways
• Pathways
• Sport Surfaces
• Patching & Asphalt Rehabilitation
Plehal Blacktopping is a full-service asphalt contractor.
Creating outdoor living areas for over 25 years!
TS Lic # 000485
Brick Pavers- Sidewalks Patios and Driveways Custom Landscape Design Decorative Block Walls Natural Stone Walls Outdoor Lighting Sodding and Seeding Tree and Shrub Installation Outdoor Kitchens Water Features ~ Ponds and Waterfalls
Wood Structures ~ Porches, Decks and Fences
( 952) 442-1726
www. pictureperfectland. com
Builder’ s Lic # 448188