When it comes to protecting Hudson Valley homes and families, hurricane preparedness might be something that residents take for granted. However, with increasingly frequent hurricanes impacting the region and average maximum wind speeds higher than ever in the area, there is a strong potential for future storms to inflict major damage.

In the following article, we’ll look at how to prepare your house for a hurricane so that you can proactively defend your loved ones from nature’s most destructive force.

Understanding Hurricane Risks in the Hudson Valley

Regional Vulnerabilities

In New York, hurricane season typically begins in June and ends in November. Because it’s close to the Atlantic coast, Hudson Valley is particularly vulnerable to flooding and wind damage during this timeframe — especially when hurricanes move inland. In addition to ocean proximity, it’s important to consider factors such as local construction codes and municipality layout when evaluating risk. Depending on the strength of building materials and the natural wind barrier provided by foliage, homes in Hudson Valley can experience damage to roofs, walls, and windows due to flying debris.

Historical Context

Hudson Valley residents who have lived in the area for more than 10 years undoubtedly remember when Hurricane Sandy hit landfall near Atlantic City in 2012. The damage accumulated in the region surpassed $50 billion due to record flooding and wind-related destruction. It was a bleak reminder of the risk posed by storms that can surge up rivers — like the Hudson — which are connected to larger oceans where hurricanes gather their strength.

Strengthening Your Home’s Exterior

Sealing and Reinforcing the Roof

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the destructive force of a hurricane. Secure it for maximum protection by inspecting and repairing existing damage. Keep an eye out for loose shingles and reinforce them with nails or roofing cement. In general, applying waterproof sealants is good practice to prevent leaks. Also, take care to remove anything that could later turn into debris such as weather vanes, satellite dishes, or antennas. 

Installing Storm Shutters

Cover your windows and doors with storm shutters to protect these particularly vulnerable exterior openings from hurricane damage. Choose from either permanent, polycarbonate storm shutters or temporary, plywood solutions. If using plywood, select something with a thickness of at least ⅝-inch to provide ample protection.

Securing Doors and Windows

In addition to storm shutters, you can also reinforce windows and doors with additional hardware such as tracts, fasteners, and connectors. Considering a home remodel? Now would be the perfect time to upgrade your windows and doors with impact-resistant models that can withstand ballistic debris. Double or fiberglass doors offer dependable protection and can be secured with additional reinforcements.

Protecting Your Home’s Surroundings

Yard and Landscaping

Tree branches and fallen trees can easily become airborne in high winds, causing damage to surrounding property. Trimming your trees and removing dead branches minimizes the likelihood of this scenario — even in the face of hurricane-force winds. In addition to your landscaping, you should secure or store any outdoor furniture and decor, as they can turn into liabilities when winds reach certain speeds.

Drainage Systems

Clear your gutters and downspouts of fallen leaves or debris to make sure they’re functioning properly. Your gutter system is responsible for efficient water drainage around your property, making it an essential safeguard against flooding from hurricane-strength rainfall.

Fencing and Outbuildings

In addition to loose, outdoor furniture items, you’ll also want to inspect and reinforce your property’s fences and gates. Secure sheds, detached garages, and other outbuildings with the same care you’ve paid to your home.

Preparing Your Home’s Interior

Emergency Supplies and Kits

In the likely event that your home loses power following a hurricane, you’ll want to make sure that you have ample rations to keep you and your loved ones fed, hydrated, and healthy. Assemble an emergency hurricane preparedness kit with essentials like food, water, and medication. Make sure that these materials are stored in secure, accessible locations so that they’re available when you need them.

Other supplies to consider for your hurricane preparedness checklist:

• Flashlights
• Fire extinguishers
• Matches or lighters
• Spare batteries
• Prescription medications
• Gasoline for your generator

Safeguarding Important Documents

Store important documents in waterproof containers — things like birth certificates, receipts, deeds, social security cards, insurance policies, and other printed records that can get ruined in floodwater. You should also consider creating digital backups of documents that are especially critical. Take pictures and videos of expensive possessions so that you can later prove their pre-hurricane condition when filing an insurance claim. 

Power and Utilities

It’s safe to assume that you’ll experience power outages during a hurricane, which means your home’s electrical safety devices may be temporarily disabled. How long these outages last can be unpredictable, so prepare for the worst with gas generators or battery backups. Also, make sure to safely shut off your water, electricity, and gas — especially if planning to evacuate. When the power goes out, you’ll want to make sure that these utilities are protected from surges or damages during the hurricane.

Developing a Family Emergency Plan

Communication Strategies

Establish a communication plan with your family members and friends. Anticipate the need to answer questions related to family members’ specific needs, emergency alerts, and evacuation routes — and develop answers to these questions. Designate an emergency contact outside the impacted area so that you have a lifeline for someone not affected by hurricane destruction.

Evacuation Routes and Shelters

Identify local evacuation routes and nearby emergency shelters. Before moving to these designated locations, prepare to-go bags for family members to carry with them. These compact kits should include essentials like food, water, and first aid supplies.

Special Considerations

Plan for the special needs of pets, elderly family members, or those with disabilities. Discuss the unique considerations of each, and assign responsibilities to tend to these considerations.

After the Hurricane

Safe Return and Inspection

If your neighborhood was part of an evacuation zone, do not return home until authorities have established that it’s safe to do so. Once home, check your property for structural damage and potential safety hazards. These could include damaged power or gas lines, leaks, flooding, broken glass, and any vaulted structures that could potentially fall if winds pick up again.

Cleanup and Temporary Repairs

Safely clean up debris, documenting property damage for insurance claims as you do so. Keep an inventory of temporary repair expenses, but don’t make any permanent repairs until a claim adjuster has surveyed the damage. Temporary repairs could include boarding up broken doors or windows to prevent theft or additional water damage.

All other repairs should be handled by professional electrical companies and plumbing experts.

Community and Government Assistance

Local emergency services and disaster relief organizations are literal lifesavers in the aftermath of hurricanes. 

In Hudson Valley, residents should call:

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

If you require assistance following a storm that’s been federally declared a disaster, you are encouraged to contact FEMA as soon as possible to request help. Call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).

Dutchess County Department of Emergency Response

Call (845) 486-2080 or toll-free at 1-800-211-3536 to contact the Dutchess County Department of Emergency Response. You can also email them at [email protected].

Hudson Valley Regional Emergency Medical Services Council (HVREMSCO)

Call (845) 245-4292 to contact the HVREMSCO, which serves the counties of Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Sullivan, Rockland, and Ulster.

Takeaways

As Hudson Valley’s go-to emergency plumbing service, we at T.Webber hope this has been a helpful guide on how to prepare for a hurricane. Together, we’ve learned that the most critical steps for hurricane preparedness include securing your home’s exterior, protecting your property’s surroundings, preparing your home’s interior, and developing a comprehensive family emergency plan.

Remember, the time to act is now — don’t wait until the last minute. Stay informed about hurricane risks in your area and take proactive measures to safeguard your home and loved ones before the next big hurricane strikes. T. Webber will be here for you with our emergency repair services once the storm has passed.

Do you know the importance of maintaining your home’s plumbing system? If not, rest assured that T. Webber is here to help. From preventing costly repairs to ensuring efficient water usage, staying on top of maintenance tasks can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. With that, let’s delve into the essentials of plumbing maintenance. 

Why Regular Plumbing Maintenance Matters

If you’re a homeowner or property owner in Poughkeepsie, NY who wants to protect their investment, then maintaining your plumbing system should never be skipped. Here are some reasons why plumbing maintenance matters: 

1. Prevents Repairs & Replacements

Regular maintenance helps in identifying potential issues early on, preventing them from escalating into costly repairs or replacements. By addressing small leaks or clogs promptly, you can avoid emergency plumbing situations that could disrupt your daily life and incur significant expenses.

2. Prolongs Lifespan

Extend the lifespan of your plumbing system through routine inspections and maintenance tasks, such as cleaning drains and checking for leaks, you can extend the lifespan of your pipes, fixtures, and appliances, saving you money in the long run.

3. Increases Energy & Cost-Efficiency

Ensure efficient water flow and save money on your utility bills with a well-maintained plumbing system. By addressing issues like water leaks or inefficient fixtures, you can ensure that your home’s water resources are utilized optimally, saving both energy and money.

4. Enhances Home Safety

The safety of your home is dependent on how well your plumbing system is maintained. Without regular and proper maintenance, your plumbing system is more susceptible to pipe leaks, floods, and other disasters associated with unkempt systems.

5. Maintains Property Value

You can maintain and add value to your home by regularly performing maintenance to your drains, pipes, and plumbing, making your home more valuable on the market if you’re looking to sell your home.

Create a Plumbing Maintenance Plan

To ensure a plumbing system that works at peak performance all year round, we recommend creating a plumbing maintenance plan. 

The Frequency of Maintenance Checks

Determining how often plumbing maintenance should occur depends on various factors such as the age of the system, usage patterns, and local water quality. Typically, bi-annual inspections are recommended, once in the spring and once in the fall. However, high-traffic commercial properties or older residential buildings may require more frequent checks, perhaps quarterly or even monthly.

DIY vs. Professional Maintenance

While DIY maintenance can be cost-effective and empowering for homeowners, the process often lacks the expertise and tools necessary to detect underlying issues accurately. DIY tasks may include simple tasks like checking for leaks, clearing clogged drains, and insulating pipes. On the other hand, professional maintenance involves thorough inspections by licensed plumbers who can identify potential problems early, conduct preventative measures, and provide comprehensive solutions. Professional maintenance also ensures compliance with local building codes and regulations, reducing the risk of costly repairs or fines in the future.

Budgeting for Maintenance Costs

The cost of professional plumbing maintenance services varies depending on the scope of work, the size of the property, and the region. Typically, a routine maintenance visit may range from $100 to $250, excluding any necessary repairs or replacements. However, investing in regular maintenance can ultimately save money by preventing major plumbing emergencies and prolonging the lifespan of your system. It’s advisable to obtain quotes from multiple reputable plumbing companies and factor maintenance costs into your annual home or business budget.

Essential Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

A complete plumbing maintenance checklist will include:

• Checking for Leaks
• Testing Water Pressure
• Inspecting Drains and Gutters
• Cleaning Faucets, Shower Heads, and Aerators
• Flushing Water Heaters
• Examining Toilet Components
• Insulating Pipes
• Addressing Hard Water Issues

Checking for Leaks

Inspect all visible pipes, faucets, and fixtures for any signs of leaks, such as puddles, dampness, or water stains. Also, monitor your water meter for any unexplained increases in usage, which could indicate a hidden leak.

Testing Water Pressure

Use a pressure gauge to test the water pressure in your home. Ideal water pressure typically falls between 40 and 80 psi (pounds per square inch). Adjust pressure regulators if necessary to prevent damage to pipes and appliances.

Inspecting Drains and Gutters

Clear any debris from drains and gutters to prevent clogs and water backups. Ensure that downspouts are directing water away from the foundation of your home to prevent water damage.

Cleaning Faucets, Shower Heads, and Aerators

Remove mineral deposits and debris by soaking faucets, shower heads, and aerators in vinegar or a commercial descaling solution. This helps maintain proper water flow and prevents buildup that can lead to clogs.

Flushing Water Heaters

Drain and flush your water heater at least once a year to remove sediment buildup, which can reduce efficiency and lead to premature failure. Follow manufacturer instructions for safe and effective flushing.

Examining Toilet Components

Check for leaks, loose connections, and signs of wear in toilet components such as the flapper, fill valve, and flush valve. Replace any damaged parts to prevent water waste and potential water damage.

Insulating Pipes

Insulate exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas such as attics, basements, and crawl spaces, to prevent freezing during cold weather. Use foam pipe insulation or heating tape to protect pipes from bursting.

Addressing Hard Water Issues

Install a water softener if you have hard water, which can cause mineral buildup in pipes and fixtures. Regularly test water hardness and adjust the softener settings as needed to prevent scale buildup and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system.

Plumbing Maintenance Tips for Homeowners

Want to make the most of your home’s plumbing? In addition to our plumbing maintenance checklist, here are some tips you can follow: 

Tip #1: Regularly Monitor Water Usage

When you regularly monitor your water usage, you not only become more conscious of potential leaks or inefficiencies but also contribute to water conservation efforts. Keep an eye on your water bill for any unexpected spikes, as this could indicate a hidden leak. Additionally, be mindful of any changes in water pressure or unusual sounds coming from your plumbing system, as these could also signal issues that need attention. By staying vigilant, you can catch problems early and avoid costly repairs down the line.

Tip #2: Keep Plumbing Fixtures Clean

Clean pipes, drains, and fixtures are essential for maintaining proper water flow and preventing unpleasant odors. Regularly clean your sinks, showers, and toilets using gentle, non-abrasive cleaners to prevent the buildup of grime and mineral deposits. For stubborn clogs, consider using a natural solution like baking soda and vinegar or investing in a plumber’s snake to safely clear the blockage without damaging your pipes. By keeping your plumbing fixtures clean, you not only ensure optimal performance but also prolong their lifespan.

Tip #3: Use Drain Screens

Prevent unwanted debris from falling into your drains by using drain screens or strainers. These inexpensive devices are easy to install and can effectively catch hair, food particles, and other debris before they have a chance to clog your pipes. Be sure to clean the drain screens regularly to maintain their effectiveness and prevent buildup. Additionally, practice good habits such as scraping food scraps into the trash before washing dishes to minimize the amount of waste that enters your drains. By using drain screens and being mindful of what goes down the drain, you can significantly reduce the risk of clogs and keep your plumbing system running smoothly.

Tip #4: Schedule Professional Inspections Annually

While regular maintenance tasks can help prevent common plumbing issues, some problems may require the expertise of a professional plumber. Schedule annual inspections with a qualified plumbing service to thoroughly assess your system for any signs of damage or wear. A professional plumber has the specialized equipment, knowledge, and experience to identify potential problems that may not be apparent to the untrained eye. They can also provide recommendations for repairs or upgrades to improve the efficiency and reliability of your plumbing system. By investing in annual inspections, you can catch issues early and avoid costly repairs or emergencies in the future.

Choose T. Webber for Plumbing Maintenance Services in Poughkeepsie & Westchester 

Regular plumbing maintenance is essential for preserving the integrity and functionality of your home’s plumbing system. By partnering with T. Webber for plumbing maintenance services in Poughkeepsie and Westchester, you can trust that your plumbing system is in capable hands. With our expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction, we’ll help you keep your plumbing running smoothly year-round. Don’t wait until a minor issue turns into a major problem—schedule your maintenance appointment today and experience the difference proactive care can make.

Drain cleaning is a normal part of being a responsible homeowner. In fact, it’s probably one of the most important things you can do when maintaining your home’s plumbing system. Allowing any clog to persist in your plumbing system can result in drastic consequences. You may encounter higher utility costs, poor levels of sanitation, and bad sewer odors. Worse, you will lose access to essential plumbing fixtures like toilets and showers. Considering how often you use these fixtures on a daily basis, it will be impossible to live in your home conveniently. The clogs may also hinder their efficiency and shorten their lifespan, meaning you will have to potentially spend thousands of dollars on plumbing repair and eventual replacement. If any of these problems sound worrying to you, and they should, you need to take a proactive approach to fix drain clogs so you can live an easier life in your home this season. Even if you sense the slightest hint of a drain problem, you make the effort to inspect the problem. With the state of your plumbing fixtures at risk, taking a few simple actions can change your plumbing system for the better.

How Can T.Webber Help You?

You may not have the tools and experience of a licensed plumber, but you can certainly find that at T.Webber if you call us for service. Our highly-effective drain cleaning will ensure any clogs are removed as soon as possible. We can offer a wide range of effective cleaning solutions including camera inspection and high-pressure water jetting. Even if you experience a drain clog completely out of nowhere, we can provide emergency plumbing services to save your plumbing system just in time. Our plumbers know how to provide fast yet highly-effective service that will leave you feeling 100% satisfied. With our help, you will experience greater savings on utility bills, improved fixture efficiency, and a higher level of convenience made possible when your plumbing system remains clog-free. A call to T.Webber is the best way to make your life easier.

8 Helpful Drain Cleaning Tips

If you want to know how you can play a role in drain cleaning, please take note of these 8 tips so you know what to do when a clog first forms:

• Baking Soda and Vinegar: The mixture of baking soda and vinegar will prove to be a miracle substance when it comes to fixing drain clogs. One cup of vinegar and a ½ cup of baking soda can be mixed together and poured down the drain, which will have a fizzy, eruptive effect that will push any blockage up and out. You can also pour boiling hot water down the drain to loosen up any substances, especially oil and grease buildup.
• Keep Grease and Oil Away: And speaking of oil and grease buildup, it is one of the worst things you can ever put down the drain. Oil and grease eventually harden and make passage through the drainage pipe impossible. A more effective way of discarding excess grease or cooking oil would be to first store it in a container before discarding it in the regular garbage.
• Use a Drain Snake: Though you absolutely should keep a plunger handy,a drain snake will break up any clog that a plunger will not be able to reach and can instead fit into the smaller, hard-to-reach areas of your drains. However, please remember to use drain snakes carefully. They can actually puncture holes in older, rusty drainage pipes.
• Bent Wire Hangers: If you have a wire coat hanger to spare, you can actually use it as a drain cleaning tool. A bent wire hanger will work similarly to a drain snake, where it can reach substances in areas a plunger cannot reach. Also like drain snakes, you need to be careful when applying it, or else it may result in damage to your pipes.
• Invest in Strainers: When you consider just how many different materials your kitchen and sink drains are constantly dealing with, the addition of a strainer to your kitchen and bath drains may prove a huge relief. Strainers will work to keep any prime clogging material out. These strainers will become blocked themselves, but all you need to do is empty them periodically to ensure they do their job effectively.
• Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners: It’s easy to be fooled by slickly-produced commercials making chemical drain cleaning solutions look like the best way to clean your drain, but it is better to use them sparingly, or not at all. They can actually damage your drainage pipes in the long-term and leave you spending money on pipe repair.
• Pour Dish Detergent Down a Toilet:You need to take any steps necessary to prevent toilet overflows, and dish detergent may prove the perfect solution. Pour a ½ cup of detergent down the toilet bowl and allow it to sit for 20 to 30 minutes. After waiting long enough, you should also pour boiled hot water down the drain to send the source of clogging up and out.
• Call T.Webber for Annual Maintenance: You should make it a point to call T.Webber for annual drain maintenance so you can guarantee highly-efficient, uninterrupted plumbing for the next 12 months. We can carefully inspect your system, ensuring any problems looming on the horizon will be stopped from growing much worse.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late – Schedule Your Drain Cleaning Service Today

Contact T.Webber today if you want to learn more on how you can stop clogs once and for all with effective drain cleaning!

Many households throughout the Hudson Valley and the US receive their water supply from private wells. These private wells use electric well pumps to draw water from the water source and deliver it to the household. If you experience a power outage, your well pump will not work. You will continue to use water for a short time, as your system draws the remaining water from the well storage tank. However, once that water is used, you will not have access to fresh water until power is restored.

In many cases, this does not pose an immediate problem as power outages are often short-lived. Yet in the Hudson Valley, where areas are susceptible to large storms which can knock out power for days at a time, this is a constant worry.

How to Avoid Losing Water During A Storm

One of the best ways to avoid losing water supply during a power outage is to install a backup generator in your Hudson Valley home to supply power to essential appliances. The size and scope of your backup generator system will depend on how elaborate a system it needs to maintain. If you only need to provide power to a sump pump a smaller, gasoline-powered pump should suffice. However the more fixtures and appliances you add to the load like lights, well pump, furnace, refrigerator etc the larger the backup generator will have to be.

If you are using a gasoline powered generator please make sure it is placed outside; not in a crawl space, basement or attached garage. Make sure the generator is safely connected. And once power is restored, disconnect the generator immediately.

How to Flush Your Toilet Without a Functioning Well Pump

If you do not have a backup generator and lose power, remember that you can still flush toilets and then pour water into the toilet tank (not the bowl) before flushing again. This is a smart way to save potable water that you still have access to. To do so, first shut off the water supply to the toilet. Most residential and commercial toilets have emergency shutoffs with the water piping leading to the toilet. Then, use grey water (melted snow or ice, pool water, etc) to fill the toilet tank before each flush.

Water conservation during a power outage will allow you to continue with a usable water supply for a longer period of time. Try to limit shower times, drink bottled water, and refrain from using washing machines, laundry machines, or any other household device which calls for water. If you have questions here, be sure to call a plumber or an electrician.

After Power Is Restored

When your well pump stops working during a power outage in the Hudson Valley, remember it is only temporary. Once power is restored, so will be your water supply. All you have to do is stay calm and consider your options of how to minimize water usage during the down time so that you have water available for your most important day-to-day activities.

If, however, your water does not return once the power has been restored, you may have to reset the pressure switch, which can be triggered when the tank pressure drops below a suitable level. On the rare occasion, power surges, lightning strikes or complications from no water situations may require the attention of a licensed well pump professional.

If you’re experiencing problems with your well pump, call T.Webber Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric in the Hudson Valley today!