✉ by Bill Page, President, SMVE HOA
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I haven’t seen such a beautiful spring since the early 1990’s. If you don’t have pollen allergies, you probably enjoyed it even more. Now we have to prepare for the Tucson summer. Whether or not you spend the warmest months in cooler climate of more northerly places or travel for a month or so to escape the heat, your Tucson home and lot will remain here to face the elements.
In 1995, we had one storm that dropped over 5 inches of rain on SMVE in 2 1/2 hours. Needless to say, a great deal of damage occurred including one home that got flooded because the drainage holes in the patio walls (which were screened to keep out snakes, etc.) clogged up with vegetation debris, the yard filled with water to a depth that flowed in under the doors and created $10,000 in damage to floors, walls, etc. While such a storm is very uncommon, if you are prepared for the worst, you had the screens removed and the drainage channels cleared before you leave.
As the Fairfield block is slightly porous, it should be re-sprayed with silicone spray about once every five years or so to prevent infiltration of water. Our slightly pitched roofs should be recoated with water repellent sealers like White Elastik Solar Extreme or W2456 Stay-Kool elastomeric coatings about every five years. Remember the parapets must be tan.
Periodically you should have someone check the roof for leaf and other debris that can blow onto the roof. This material can block up drainage scuppers and downspouts and cause a huge weight of water to accumulate on the roof. If there is a leak to be found, standing water will find it.
If you are away for 5-6 months, it is wise to have a landscaper check your property at least once/month. In addition to tree branches that can snap and outdoor furniture that can be blown away in our summer thunderstorm winds, a robust crop of weeds can spring up unless you have had your yard sprayed with a pre-emergent to inhibit germination. Your neighbors would love that.
It’s always wise to have a “whole house fuse” installed to disconnect your homes electricity in the event of a very close lightning strike. Unplug all unnecessary appliances and light fixtures and leave the outdoor pole light switch on (with fresh bulbs) to be turned off and on with the light sensor.
Last, but not least, make sure the contact information we have for you is up-to-date. If we must reach you for any reason, please make it easy for us. Have a great summer!