Is Your Home Ready for El Niño?

Experts are projecting a strong El Niño this winter and for North San Diego County that could mean significant rainfall. The time to prepare your home is now, well before the first storm arrives.

One of the most overlooked but critical lines of defense against water intrusion is your gutters and downspouts. I sat down with Paul De Graitis, owner of Raingutters 760, and asked him for the three things every homeowner should do to get ready. Here is a summary of what Paul told me.

• First, check your gutters for leaks at the corners. Even small leaks can lead to big problems when water is coming down hard.

• Second, look for any gutters that are sagging or pulling away from the roofline. This happens when old nails pop out and causes water to spill over the front rather than drain properly.

• Third, clear your gutters and downspouts of all debris. A hose or leaf blower works well for gutters. For downspouts, remove them, take them apart, and pound them into the ground to loosen any built up dirt. For two story homes, leave this to a licensed and insured professional.

A little preparation now can save a lot of heartache and expense later.