How to Prepare Your Cairns Home for the Wet Season
As the wet season approaches in Cairns, it’s crucial to prepare your home for the heavy rain, high humidity, and tropical storms that typically occur between November and April. Taking the right steps now can help protect your property and avoid costly repairs later.
Here’s how to ensure your home is ready for the season ahead.
1. Inspect and Clear Gutters and Drains
During the wet season, blocked gutters and drains can quickly lead to water build-up, causing roof damage and leaks. Ensure your gutters and downpipes are free of leaves, branches, and debris to allow water to flow smoothly away from your home.
Tip: Schedule regular inspections and consider installing gutter guards to keep them clear year-round.
2. Roof and Gutter Maintenance
Heavy rain and strong winds can expose weaknesses in your roof and gutter system. Before the season starts, check for loose or damaged roof tiles, leaks, and broken gutter sections. Any issues found should be repaired or replaced immediately to prevent water damage.
Tip: Waterproofing your roof and applying weather-resistant coatings can provide extra protection during the wet season.
3. Yard and Garden Preparation
Cairns’ tropical storms can easily turn your yard into a hazard zone. Trim back any large trees or overhanging branches that could fall on your home during a storm. Secure outdoor furniture and garden items, or move them inside if possible.
Tip: Clear debris like leaves and branches from your yard to prevent blockages in drains and water pathways.
4. Flood-Proofing and Drainage Solutions
Flooding is a common risk in many parts of Cairns during the wet season. If your home is in a flood-prone area, consider investing in flood barriers or sandbags. Elevate electrical systems, install backflow valves, and ensure water can drain effectively away from your property.
Tip: Flood-resistant landscaping, such as porous driveways and raised garden beds, can also help keep your property safe from excess water.
5. Check for Pests
High humidity and standing water are perfect conditions for pests like mosquitoes and termites. Seal any cracks or gaps in windows and doors to prevent pests from entering your home. Regular pest inspections are a good precaution to avoid infestations that can worsen during the wet season.
Tip: Ensure there are no water puddles around your property, as these can attract mosquitoes.
6. Ensure Proper Ventilation
The wet season’s high humidity can lead to mould growth inside your home, especially in areas with poor ventilation. Open windows when possible to improve airflow or invest in dehumidifiers to reduce indoor humidity levels. Ensuring your home stays well-ventilated will help prevent moisture buildup and keep your air fresh.
Tip: Regularly inspect areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and cupboards for signs of mould and clean them immediately.
7. Review Insurance and Emergency Plans
With severe weather on the horizon, it’s important to review your home insurance policy. Ensure your coverage includes storm and flood damage. Also, create an emergency plan for your household, including essential items like flashlights, bottled water, and important documents.
Tip: Stay informed by signing up for weather alerts and know the locations of nearby evacuation centres in case of emergencies.
Stay Ahead with These Useful Resources:
To stay informed and prepared throughout the wet season, here are some essential websites you can rely on:
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Bureau of Meteorology (BOM)
The go-to source for up-to-date weather forecasts, cyclone warnings, and rainfall tracking in Queensland. -
Queensland Government Disaster Management
Provides advice on disaster preparedness and updates on emergency alerts. -
Get Ready Queensland
Offers tips on making emergency plans and preparing homes for severe weather events. -
Cairns Regional Council Disaster Dashboard
Real-time updates on weather warnings, road closures, and emergency contacts in Cairns. -
SES (State Emergency Service) Queensland
Provides emergency assistance during storms and floods, and can be contacted for help with storm damage or preparation.
Protect Your Home This Wet Season
The wet season is part of living in the tropics, and preparation is key to protecting your home. If you're looking for property managers who understand the wet season and can help protect your property, get in touch with us today. Our experienced team is here to assist you in navigating the unique challenges of the Cairns market.
