Heavy rains and extreme heat are natural enemies of homes in the Philippines.
During the monsoon and typhoon seasons, homes that are not weatherproofed, will not be able to continue protecting homeowners from the elements.
Prep your house—especially the exteriors—to withstand the challenges of the rainy season. One of the best ways to do this is to ensure the quality of the materials used inside and outside the structure. James Hardie, an innovator in the building materials industry—believes in designing and manufacturing building products of excellent quality. The company’s products, including the HardieFlex® brand of fiber cement boards, are one of the Filipino homeowner’s best allies to ensure the protection of the house and family.
Here are a few steps to protect your home.
Inspect and prepare the roof
Roofs should be inspected at least twice a year. Repair, or replace cracked shingles and roof ridges, and look for rust and holes. If no one in the household can perform this bi-annual inspection, contact a professional.
Clean gutters regularly to ensure that rainwater would drain properly. Trim tree branches that hang over the roof to avoid leaves filling the gutters, and to prevent big branches falling on and severely damaging the house. Other unstable structures should also be cleared in the case of strong winds. Damaged eaves can also cause water to seep into the walls. If the eaves show yellow or brown spots, or are showing signs of sagging, replace them.
Invest in the exterior walls
The house’s exterior walls are constantly exposed to the elements.
Resist damage caused by moisture, fire, and termites by using HardiePlank® Siding. It features a wood grain and smooth profile. These fiber cement siding boards require less maintenance compared to wood siding when installed and maintained properly.
Weatherproof the interiors
Do a simple inspection of the ceilings, walls, and floors. Discolored walls and ceilings, paint bubbles, and dark spots mean that water is already entering the house. Moisture not only ruins the appearance of the house’s interiors but can also affect appliances, furniture, other household items, and even the health of the residents.
Where possible, seal exterior areas where the leak begins. For parts that need replacement, asbestos-free HardieFlex® products can be used as flooring, ceiling and walls. These products are resistant to moisture damage.
Take precautions against floods
Living in a flood-prone area? Help keep floodwaters at bay by piling sandbags around the house. Move appliances, furniture, computers, documents, and other such items to a higher or drier part of the house.
Worry less about the changing seasons by keeping your house prepared to weather the heavy rains or the very hot days. Using HardieFlex® products in various parts of the home is a great way to prevent costly repairs, replacements, and damages in the future.