Brain Teaser Page 6
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Did You Know? Page 12
It Works! Page 16
Bracing for El Niño
Things we forget to check or do in a storm, exposing your roof deck to the elements. Prepare an emergency supply box that is easily accessible. Include non-perishable food for several days, water, flashlights, a portable radio, extra batteries for the radio and flashlights, and first aid kit. You can probably charge your cellphone in your vehicle but if you don’t have one or are concerned about accessing it, purchase a solar cellphone charger. Assemble in a dry location sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting, lumber and other emergency building materials for waterproofing and quick, stop-gap repairs.
By Françoise Rhodes After the major flooding the Coachella Valley had in 2014, it isn’t hard to imagine the valley being pummeled again with heavy rains and flooding associated with El Niño. Manufactured homes are sturdy and structurally sound, built under strict government codes to withstand harsh environments. However, no home can withstand negligence on the homeowner’s part, or frankly “things we forget to check or do.”
As this record-setting El Niño is headed towards California this winter here are some important things to do to get your home El Niño ready. First thing, clean your rain gutters. This is one of the most significant home maintenance jobs you can tackle; particularly making sure that water will flow freely through the downspouts. If the rain gutter system is clogged and a downspout isn’t working, the gutter can become heavily laden with water, 7.5 pounds per gallon. If you have
a deep gutter of up to 7 inches, the weight will cause so much stress, the seams can crack or the gutters fall off completely. Water that is not directed properly can also create problems in the foundation or damage the sub-roof to structural framing. Gutter maintenance can range from cleaning them out, to repairing leaky seams to placing some water permeable cover over the gutters to prevent leaves and debris from getting into them. Inspect the roof. Check for loose shingles, which can lift or tear away
Trim any tree branches that appear insecure or are hanging heavily over structures and consider staking young trees. In the garden, add compost and mulch to the beds so they absorb water and hold it. Otherwise, heavy rain will cause the good topsoil to run off. Plant any winter vegetables on mounds with a slight curvature so plants won’t be sitting in wet, muddy soil. El Niño, we’re ready for you!