Protect Your Home from Utah’s Summer Storms — A Prep Guide

Summer in Salt Lake City brings hiking, barbecues, and patio hangs—but it also brings sudden storms. These can roll in fast, with heavy rain, gusty winds, lightning, and even flash flooding. If you're a homeowner here in Utah, preparing your home before the skies open up can save you time, money, and major stress.

Here’s your storm-ready checklist to help you ride out summer storms like a pro:

1. Clear Your Gutters + Downspouts

Salt Lake storms often dump rain all at once. Clogged gutters mean water overflow, which can damage your siding, foundation, or even seep into your basement.

🔧 Hack: Use a plastic scoop and garden hose to clean gutters, or install mesh gutter guards to prevent clogging from pine needles and debris.

2. Check Your Roof

High winds and heavy rain test your roof’s strength. Look for loose shingles, damaged flashing, or signs of wear. If your roof is older, a quick check-up from a pro might be a wise pre-storm investment.

🏠 Salt Lake Bonus Tip: East Bench homes often get stronger winds due to elevation—keep a closer eye if you're in neighborhoods like the Avenues, Federal Heights, or Emigration Canyon.

3. Secure Outdoor Items

That patio umbrella or grill cover? It becomes a missile in 50+ mph gusts. Tie down or store anything lightweight or loose in your yard, especially in storm-prone zones like Glendale or Sugar House where open yards are common.

🪴 Hack: Use bungee cords to anchor patio furniture together or store cushions in deck boxes with locking lids.

4. Test Your Sump Pump

Have a basement in areas like Liberty Wells or Rose Park? A working sump pump can mean the difference between a dry floor and major flood damage. Test it before the rain hits.

💡 Pro Tip: Pour a bucket of water into the pit and make sure it kicks on. If not, check the power source or consider a battery backup.

5. Trim Your Trees

Utah’s older neighborhoods like Yalecrest or the Harvard/Princeton area are known for their mature trees—but those overhanging branches can cause serious damage. Trim dead limbs and make sure trees are healthy.

🪓 Hack: Hire a certified arborist to spot internal rot that may not be visible. It's cheaper than a roof repair!

6. Build an Emergency Kit

Power outages are rare, but when they hit, they hit hard. Keep flashlights, extra batteries, bottled water, non-perishable snacks, and first aid on hand. And if you're working remotely—don’t forget the backup charger for your laptop and phone!

7. Know Your Drainage

Flat lots, especially in West Valley or Fairpark, can have poor drainage. Walk your yard during a light rain and see where water collects. Consider adding swales, French drains, or regrading low spots.

🌧️ Hack: A $10 bag of river rock can help redirect minor pooling away from your home’s foundation in a pinch.

Bonus: Call Your Insurance Agent

Now’s the time to review your policy. Double-check that you’re covered for flood damage and that your home inventory is up to date. If you've made improvements recently (like finishing a basement), let them know.

Final Thoughts:

Summer storms in Utah don’t mess around—but with a little prep, your Salt Lake City home will be buttoned up and ready to weather whatever the season throws your way.

👉 Got a favorite home storm-proofing trick? Share it with me and I might feature it in the next Hump Day Home Hack!