Summer Storm Prep: Protect Your Home

Minnesota summers keep us on our toes — one week it's a heat advisory, the next it's a line of storms rolling through with wind, hail, or worse. If there's one lesson years in this business (and years of parenting, honestly) have taught us, it's that a little preparation beats a lot of scrambling. Think of this like a fire drill for your house: you hope you never need it, but you'll be glad you practiced.

Start from the top down. 

Your roof and gutters are your home's first line of defense, so it's worth cleaning them out now so heavy rain has somewhere to go, and having your roof checked for any loose or damaged shingles before the next big storm rolls through. While you're at it, trim back any tree branches hanging over the roof or power lines, and make sure your downspouts are directing water a few feet away from your foundation rather than pooling right against it.

Windows and doors deserve a look too. Check that the weatherstripping and seals are still doing their job, and get in the habit of closing and latching windows anytime a storm is forecasted. If you're in a hail-prone area, it's worth having storm shutters or plywood on hand just in case, and bringing in anything from the porch or balcony that could turn into a projectile in high wind.

Out in the yard, take a walk and think about what could go airborne: outdoor furniture, umbrellas, trampolines, and kids' toys are all worth securing or storing before a storm hits. Clear loose branches and yard debris regularly, and test your sump pump now — not in the middle of a downpour when you really need it to work.

On the emergency prep side, a little advance planning goes a long way: charge your phones and any backup batteries ahead of forecasted storms, and know where your home's main water and electrical shutoffs are. A small emergency kit with water, snacks, medications, and pet supplies is worth having ready, and if you haven't already, sign up for local weather alerts on your phone.

If a storm does roll through, wait until it's safe before walking the exterior to check for damage, and photograph anything you find right away for insurance purposes. Check your basement and crawl space for water intrusion too. And please — leave roof or tree damage repairs to the professionals rather than climbing up there yourself.

Bonus: Beat the Heat While You're At It

Since we're in the middle of a stretch of extreme heat this week, it seemed only fair to add a few ideas for making the most of an indoor day when it's just too hot to be outside. It's a great excuse to finally tackle that closet reorganization or basement project you've been putting off, or to pull out a puzzle or board game for a slower family afternoon. If you've got a hobby that's been gathering dust — a pottery wheel, a sketchbook, a stack of unread books — a heat-wave afternoon is the perfect excuse to dust it off. It's also a good day for a slow-cooker meal that doesn't require standing over a hot stove, or for a movie marathon with the blinds drawn and the AC doing its thing.

Honestly, our favorite move is turning it into a slow, cozy day at home: something to sip (iced coffee, iced tea, your choice), a good book or a favorite show, and the dog or cat curled up somewhere cool nearby. Sometimes the best response to heat is just permission to slow down.

Thinking about storm damage on a home you're planning to sell, or just want a second opinion on what your home might need before the next round of weather? We're always happy to walk through with you — patiently, and with coffee or tea in hand if you'd like.