Preventative Action: Inspect gutters and downspouts regularly throughout the year (particularly in the fall) and keep them clear by carefully removing debris. Note: This can be a dangerous activity to do yourself, so we always suggest you engage a qualified and skilled professional with the necessary safety equipment to do this.

Reason: When gutters are filled with leaves and other debris, this can cause a blockage in the gutter or downspout resulting in water overflowing, sometimes directly into your house or down the exterior wall. When a lot of water runs down a wall it can still potentially get in through cracks in the wall to the inside of the home or building. Once water penetrates a wall, it can cause significant surface and potentially structural damage to your home. If left untreated, mold is likely to grow.

Preventative Action: Be sure there are no cracks in external walls (we see a lot of issues with stucco). Seal with caulking and paint over.

Reason: As explained above, water running down a wall can potentially get in through cracks in the wall to the inside of the home or building, causing significant damage including mold.

Preventative Action: Check flashing around windows and Seal any gaps with silicone (available from most and building material stores such as Home Depot).

Reason: Driving rain or water flowing down a wall can get through cracks around poorly sealed windows to the inside of the home or building.

Preventative Action: Requires a professional experienced with roof repair who has the safety equipment to get on to the roof and repair the damage. Your roof should be inspected regularly

Reason: Repairing your own roof can be dangerous and is not recommended. Also, repairs can be harder depending on the type of roof material; tiles have a higher chance of causing leaks if they become brittle and crack, so review cracks and gaps on the roof before the rains come. Wood shingles, while not so available now, are also very poor at keeping water out and require more maintenance over their life span compared to modern alternatives.

Homes and Condos constructed in the 80s and earlier are particularly prone to water damage. If you suspect your property may be subject to water damage this winter or has mold or water damage from some time ago, contact BRC at 707-838-0675 to discuss your options with one of our friendly and helpful staff.