2-Minute Read
11/29/2023
Homeowner Resource
Pineapple Express Home Preparation Essentials
We’ve been fortunate to have a relatively dry (albeit cold) November in the Pacific Northwest this year. Unfortunately, the rain has decided to make a grand reentrance this week. KOIN 6 recently announced that a “Pineapple Express” is expected to affect as far north as Canada and as far south as Oregon. A Pineapple Express can significantly impact homes, sometimes bringing as much as 5 inches of rain in a single day. We’ve compiled this guide to help you prepare your home for the upcoming Pineapple Express and provide insights on when to seek professional help.
What Is A Pineapple Express?
A Pineapple Express is a type of atmospheric river, a narrow region in the atmosphere that transports significant moisture from the tropics to northern latitudes, playing a crucial role in the Earth’s ocean water cycle and influencing water supply and flood risks.
Known for delivering heavy rainfall and snow to the Pacific Northwest of the US and Canada’s West Coast. It forms over warm bands of tropical water vapor and can travel across the Pacific, sometimes dumping as much as five inches of rain on California daily!
Free Pineapple Express Home Preparation Checklist
Ready for the Pineapple Express? Secure your home with our free digital checklist! Tailored to help you prepare for this unique weather event, our checklist is just a click away. Easy, efficient, and absolutely free, it offers practical steps to ensure your home withstands the Pineapple Express. Click below to access your essential guide to rain readiness and read the article below for details!
Inspect and Clean Your Gutters
Start by ensuring that your gutters are free of debris. Blocked gutters can lead to water spillovers, damaging your home’s foundation and walls. Clean them out and check for any leaks or misalignments. This simple task can prevent a multitude of water-related issues. You’ll need a ladder to do this properly; if you don’t have one or if that makes you uncomfortable, feel free to contact a local gutter company like Great NW Gutters.
Examine Your Roof
Next, you should check your roof. Your roof is your first line of defense against rain. Inspect it for any loose or damaged shingles and replace them promptly. Look out for signs of wear and tear around the chimney and vents. Regular roof check-ups can significantly reduce the risk of leaks. If you are unable to inspect your roof without a ladder, please contact a professional!
Secure Outdoor Decor
Securing outdoor items and managing your landscaping is essential to prepare for a Pineapple Express or heavy rain. Anchor or store outdoor furniture, decorations, and any loose objects that could be blown around or damaged in heavy winds. Trim trees and bushes to minimize the risk of branches breaking and causing damage. Additionally, ensure your garden or yard has adequate drainage to prevent water pooling and potential flooding near your home. Taking these steps can help minimize property damage and maintain safety during intense weather conditions.
Check Doors and Windows
Ensure that all doors and windows close tightly. Any gaps can allow water to seep in, leading to damage and mold growth. Use weather stripping or caulking to seal any openings and keep the moisture out. Check around your windows and doors for any signs of water damage. If you notice any water damage, contact a professional water intrusion repair contractor ASAP.
Ensure Proper Drainage
Good drainage is key to preventing water accumulation around your house. Make sure the ground slopes away from your home’s foundation. Clear any blockages in storm drains and consider installing French drains or sump pumps if you have persistent drainage issues.
Safeguard Basements and Crawl Spaces
If your home has a basement or crawl space, keeping them dry is essential. Use waterproof sealants on the walls and floors. Check sump pumps to ensure they are functioning correctly, and consider using a dehumidifier to control moisture levels.
Prepare for Emergencies
Keep an emergency kit with essentials like flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and important documents. It is vital to keep documents inside something waterproof. Ensure that your family knows the plan in case of severe weather. Additionally, you should always have have a three day supply of nonperishable food and water.
When To Call The Experts
While these DIY tips can help prepare your home for rain, some issues require professional attention. If you notice signs of water intrusion, such as unexplained dampness, water stains, or mold growth, it’s time to call SFW Construction. Our team specializes in identifying and resolving water intrusion problems caused by a Pineapple Express, ensuring your home remains safe and dry. Additionally, you can find tips here on what to do if you are dealing with an active water leak during a storm.
SFW Construction is your Pineapple Express Damage Repair Specialist
Preparing your home for rain is an essential step in maintaining its integrity and your comfort. By following these tips, you can minimize the impact of the wet season. For any concerns beyond your DIY scope, SFW Construction is here to help with expert solutions for water intrusion and home repairs. We’ve been a water intrusion repair industry leader for almost 20 years. We take our job very seriously and have hundreds of reviews to prove it. If you need help repairing damage from any water intrusion in your home, reach out today for a free consultation.