September 6, 2023

How to Storm-Proof Your Condo Unit This Rainy Season

By: Melecio Martin G. Arranz IV

Living in a condo in a typhoon-prone country like the Philippines means not having to worry about flooding or power outages. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take steps to protect your home from storms. With the rainy season rolling in, it’s in your best interest to prepare your home so it stays dry and safe.

This blog shares simple ways to stormproof your condo. From securing your windows and doors to storing your belongings safely, we’ll teach you how to prepare for a typhoon while living in a condo.

How to Prepare for a Typhoon When Living in a Condo

Whether you live near the ground or are a few floors up, you must safeguard your condo and belongings from typhoons. Here are the top ways to maintain a stormproof house this rainy season.

1. Install storm shutters 

If possible, install storm or rolling shutters on your windows to prevent rain and debris from getting inside. This tip is vital because the higher the unit, the more prone it is to heavy rains batting against windows.

On the other hand, if you’re buying a condo for the first time, opt for those with double-pane windows. They’re less likely to shatter from gutsy winds; plus, they protect your unit from extreme heat and cold.

2. Clean your balcony regularly

If your condo has a balcony, it may be prone to water accumulation and potential damage. Regularly clearing it of leaves, dirt, and other debris that may block drainage systems and collect water is advisable.

Consider installing a drainage system on your balcony to direct rainwater away from your living area. This simple maintenance task not only prevents pests from breeding in the area but also maintains the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space. Then, if you have outdoor plants, bring them inside before a storm rolls in to prevent them from being uprooted or torn apart.

3. Schedule your electrical system for inspection

Hire an electrician to inspect your electrical system for safety during a typhoon. An electrician’s expertise can provide peace of mind during adverse weather conditions. By doing this step, you can also address any faulty wiring and outdated circuits that pose fire hazards.

Use surge protectors to guard against power bursts that can result from lightning strikes. Also, know where your fuse box or circuit breaker is so you can switch off your electricity when necessary and prevent an electric shock should water leaks enter your condo unit’s wiring system.

4. Check for leaks

Thoroughly inspect your condo for any signs of leaks, as they can lead to water damage and mold growth. Pay special attention to ceilings, windows, and walls. If your unit is on the middle floor of the building, you might not be as concerned about ceiling leaks. However, if you live on the upper levels, you must watch out for leaks.

Some temporary solutions include putting a container under a leaking ceiling and adding towels around the base of doors, windows, and walls. For the long term, seal gaps and cracks and regularly maintain your unit to prevent rainwater from seeping in that might render your space unlivable.

5. Protect against pests

The rainy season can drive pests to seek shelter indoors. Seal any potential entry points such as cracks, gaps, and crevices. Use weather stripping to secure doors and windows, and regularly clean and sanitize your condo to discourage pests from breeding inside your home.

Not only do these measures prevent pests from multiplying, but they also protect you and your loved ones from diseases like dengue.

6. Prepare an indoor drying rack

With rain often hindering outdoor drying, an indoor drying rack can be a lifesaver. Opt for a foldable, space-efficient stand to air-dry clothes inside your condo. Then, set up a small laundry basket by the door for your wet clothes and umbrella when you arrive. You may need another for wet shoes and slippers to stop water drippings and damage your flooring.

These proactive approaches keep your belongings dry and prevent excess humidity within your condo.

7. Pack a disaster kit

The rainy season in the Philippines can be relentless, with typhoons lasting days or weeks. During this time, going to work or buying groceries and other necessities may be difficult. As such, you must prepare a disaster or emergency kit that includes non-perishable food, bottled water, a flashlight, a battery-powered radio, extra batteries, candles, and first aid supplies.

As a safety measure, ensure your supplies last for at least three to five days of your family’s sustenance.

Don’t Let the Rain Get to You

Condos are not exempt from tropical storms in the Philippines. But by following the tips above and knowing what to do in a storm, you can protect your condo unit from natural calamities. If you’re buying a condo for the first time, invest in one with stormproof features from Federal Land.

Federal Land properties⎯like their pre-selling condo in Taft Avenue⎯use a glazing system that attaches tempered glass windows to aluminum frames, ensuring water tightness during typhoons and reducing storm winds’ impact and noise.

This system also includes an “opening-limiter” to control window openings for user safety while allowing maximum fresh air to ventilate the unit for better indoor air quality.

Meanwhile, their Horizon Land properties use elastomeric paint to protect building surfaces from wind-driven rain and create a waterproof system for condo units. They reinforce punched windows through double glazing or storm-resistant louvers to shield your property from harsh weather conditions.

Contact them today to learn more about the typhoon-ready properties they offer.