The Texas Hill Country Weather Challenge
Kendall County and the greater San Antonio area experience some of the most intense storm events in the country. Flash flooding along the Guadalupe River and Cibolo Creek, intense hail, and tropical moisture from the Gulf of Mexico can turn a clear afternoon into a flood emergency. The best water damage restoration is the kind you never need — and preparation is everything.
Inspect and Maintain Your Roof Before Storm Season
Your roof is your first line of defense. Texas hail can crack shingles, break flashing, and create entry points for water with a single storm. A roof inspection before spring storm season should check:
- Missing, cracked, or curling shingles
- Damaged or pulling-away flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights
- Soft spots or sagging areas in the roof deck
- Granule loss (look in your gutters for accumulation)
- Condition of roof penetrations (pipes, vents, HVAC units)
Even minor damage can allow water infiltration during a heavy rain event. Have a licensed roofer perform an inspection every 2–3 years and after any significant hail storm.
Clean and Extend Your Gutters
Clogged gutters overflow and direct water toward your foundation — one of the leading causes of basement flooding and foundation damage in the Hill Country. Before storm season:
- Clean all gutters and downspouts thoroughly
- Ensure downspouts extend at least 6 feet from your foundation
- Check that gutters are pitched correctly toward downspouts (not holding standing water)
- Install gutter guards to reduce maintenance
- Add downspout extenders where needed
Grade Your Yard Away from the Foundation
The soil around your home should slope away from the foundation at approximately 6 inches over the first 10 feet. Over time, soil settles and can create a bowl effect that channels storm water toward your foundation walls. Re-grading is inexpensive and one of the most effective flood prevention measures available.
Inspect and Protect Your Window and Door Seals
Windows and doors are common water intrusion points during heavy rain driven by high winds. Check the caulking around all windows and doors annually. Look for:
- Caulk that is cracked, shrinking, or pulling away from the surface
- Door thresholds that aren't sealing properly
- Window weep holes that are blocked
- Gaps in exterior trim
Install a Sump Pump (With Battery Backup)
If your home has a basement or sits in an area prone to standing water, a sump pump is essential. During a major storm, power often fails exactly when you need your sump pump most. A battery backup system ensures your pump continues running during outages. Test your sump pump quarterly by pouring water into the pit to confirm activation.
Create an Emergency Water Damage Kit
Keep these items accessible before storm season arrives:
- Wet-dry vacuum (for minor water events)
- Sandbags or water barriers for doorways in flood-prone areas
- Your insurance policy documentation (digital backup in the cloud)
- Emergency contact numbers: our 24/7 line is (830) 271-3338
- Plastic sheeting and tarps
- Battery-powered flashlights and emergency radio
Know Your Flood Zone and Have a Plan
Check FEMA's flood maps for your Boerne or San Antonio property. Know your evacuation route if you're near the Guadalupe River or Cibolo Creek. Sign up for Kendall County emergency alerts at the county website to receive flash flood warnings directly to your phone.
If a Storm Hits Anyway — We're Ready
Even the best preparation can't stop every water damage event. When a storm catches you off guard, Water Damage Restoration Boerne TX is available 24/7 at (830) 271-3338. We serve all of Kendall County and Bexar County with emergency response times typically under 60 minutes. Call us the moment you have water in your home — the sooner we arrive, the better the outcome.
