The Golden State: Where & How to Live, Secure, Visit, Enjoy and Thrive in California

First Aid For The Ailing Houses

Patio roofs should be considered from a standpoint of wind resistance. Some roofs are merely flat surfaces of fiberglass, plastic, canvas, wood, or metal over a light framework of two-by-four lumber. These types of roofs often take off like a sail when the storm arrives. Unfortunately, the patio roof may also damage other parts of the house.

Be sure the bracing is sufficient and strong enough to with-stand a heavy blow. The roofing material dealer in your neighborhood can usually tell you how far apart bracings should be. Where translucent panels of corrugated or flat resin-impregnated glass fiber are used, it is a good idea to cut small 3-inch-square pieces of the material as washers for the nails. This will prevent the wind from tearing the panels
away from the relatively small nail heads.

If a canvas cover is used, be sure to take it down if a serious storm is expected.

A HOUSE that is to remain closed for any length of time should be protected against damage from a number of causes: from freezing, from insects and vermin, from breakage of water and gas pipes, from sources of fire, from entry of destructive pests like squirrels, and from breaking in by marauders.

A most important matter is the removal of water to protect against pipe freezing and breaking. Usually it is considered safe to leave a house with the water and plumbing systems "as is," if the heat is kept on at about 55°. Many people do this, some for extended periods of time, and have no trouble at all. However, this practice is definitely in the "taking-a-chance" category, unless arrangements can be made for someone to inspect the house at least every other day. Should there be a storm, or a power failure owing to downed electrical lines—or should the mechanism of the heater fail—the power would go off and so would the heat.

When a house is to be left unheated at a time when outdoor temperatures are low, all water must be drained off to prevent damage by freezing. The procedure is as follows:

The main supply valve is closed.

All faucets are opened, which will empty each supply branch to the level of the lowest fixture.