MONSOON CARE FOR YOUR HOMES
Monsoons are a time of joy and rejuvenation, but they can also bring along their fair share of challenges. Especially, when it comes to homes, taking care of our spaces during the monsoons is essential to prevent any damage caused by heavy rainfall and moisture. However, with a little bit of preparation and care, we can ensure that our homes stay protected and safe during this rainy season. George E. Ramapuram, Managing Director & Principal Architect, Earthitects emphasises on proactive measures to safeguard against seasonal challenges. “In our designs, we incorporate pitched roofs with calculated angles and overhangs to ensure efficient rainwater flow. Maintain proper drainage to prevent water accumulation that could weaken the roof structure. Our designs feature eucalyptus poles emitting natural oils for fective pest control, which age gracefully. Large glass windows ensure proper ventilation and control indoor humidity levels. Using textured stone finishes on open spaces like balconies can prevent slipperiness. Wooden flooring acts as an insulator against external temperatures, providing consistent warmth and comfort. Proper grading of the landscape prevents water pooling around the structure, ensuring stability and longevity.” Gagandeep Kapila, Director, Workshop for Metropolitan Architecture says, “While devising a high-end residential design, it is crucial to consider the potential challenges that may arise over time, such as seasonal changes. When selecting materials, it is wise to prioritize those that are suitable for all seasons, taking into account the specific requirements of the monsoons. By investing in such materials, you can ensure a long-lasting and resilient interior that withstands seasonal changes while maintaining its allure.” Ar. Dipttii Khanna, Principal Architect, Dipttii Khanna Designs shares, “One has to ensure that there are no exposed wires. Any exposed wires should be immediately covered to avoid accidents. In addition, using humidifiers can help control the humidity levels inside our homes which will create a comfortable living environment. To prevent dampness and moisture from affecting our belongings, the use of moisture absorbers is recommended which can be placed in wardrobes and cabinets. They will help absorb excess moisture and keep our clothes, shoes, and books dry and in good condition. Lastly, it is essential to check windows for any gaps or leaks so that rainwater does not seep in.” Ritu Goregaoker, Design Director. GA Design adds, “For your home to be equipped to face such severe rainfall, it is essential to perform maintenance tasks from potential water damage. Regular cleaning of gutters and downspouts in balconies and terraces are a must to prevent water from clogging and then seeping into your home. Check the seals around windows and doors and replace any damaged weather stripping. Properly sealed openings will prevent rainwater from entering your home. Trim trees and branches that could potentially fall and cause damage during storms. Elevate potted plants to avoid waterlogging and provide adequate drainage in garden areas. Use dehumidifiers in indoor areas prone to excess moisture to prevent mold and mildew growth.” Rohini Bagla, Principal Interior Designer, Studio Rohini Bagla agreed that during the monsoon season, critical maintenance tasks are essential to keep your home in top condition. “First and foremost, inspect your roof for leaks, damaged shingles, and blocked gutters. Promptly repair any issues you find to avoid water seepage. Clear gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water drainage and prevent water buildup. Check windows, doors, and walls for cracks and gaps. Additionally, ensure that external drainage systems are clear to prevent water from accumulating around your home. Regularly inspect walls and ceilings for signs of water seepage.” An essential aspect of monsoon maintenance is drainage repairs concurs Rachna Agarwal, Founder and Design Ideator, Studio IAAD. “Professionals can help replace, unclog or fix the drains as needed. Inspect flat areas for any water accumulation and verify that the drainage pipes are appropriately positioned to handle the flow of rainwater. Too many moisture-laden days lead to the swelling of the wood. Try to use varnish or reseal wooden doors before the onset of monsoons to prevent moisture build-up.” LEAKAGES AND SEEPAGES As the monsoon season arrives, bringing with it the promise of refreshing showers and lush greenery, it also brings some challenges for homeowners. Here are some essential maintenance tips to transform your home into a cozy and beautiful living space that withstands the monsoon's trials and embraces its delights. Ritu Goregaoker states, “Façade must be checked periodically for wear and tear, cracks or breakage, and if there is any damage, it must be instantly repaired. To avoid water seeping in from the wall, opt for waterproof coatings on exterior surfaces to keep leakages at bay. Also, ensure proper ventilation in areas like bathrooms and kitchens to reduce moisture build-up. Applying waterproofing solutions to basements, crawl spaces, and vulnerable areas like bathrooms also helps in preventing moisture penetration. Regularly checking the waterproofing of terraces will help in preventing water ffrom finding its way into the houses.” Ar. Dipttii Khanna adds, “One of the first steps to ensure the protection of your home is to get waterproofing done on the outside of the roof and walls to create a barrier against water seepage and prevent any leaks that can lead to damage. It is also necessary to unclog drains and repair pipes just before the monsoon season begins. Proper ventilation is also necessary to avoid moisture build-up inside the rooms. In addition, it is advisable to use sealants, putty, or grout to cover any cracks on the walls or pipes to reduce the risk of water damage. Lastly, you can opt for silicon paints for indoor walls, as they have high water-resistant properties.” George E. Ramapuram suggests, “Regularly inspect your roof for missing shingles, damaged flashing, or clogged gutters. Consider doing a deep pointing for sloped roofs to ensure the easy flow of water. Promptly repair any issues to prevent water from seeping into your home. Properly seal ridges and valleys to avoid leaks. Ensure that water is directed away from the roof and foundation. Adequate drainage systems should be in place to prevent the collection or storage of water on the roof. The ground around your home should slope away from the foundation. Proper grading helps direct water away from the house, reducing the risk of water accumulating near the foundation and causing leaks. Keep indoor humidity levels in check, especially in damp areas like bathrooms and basements. Proper ventilation and dehumidifiers can help control indoor humidity, preventing water-related issues.” Rachna Agarwal, gives an example, a sloping roof that tilts on its axis helps tackle torrential rains. For coastal homes, sloped roofs help welcome the sea breeze to meander through the spatial volume. A home's facade and open areas can be clad in a mix of concrete and textured tiles that mimic natural stone — a material palette that effectively discourages the build-up of moss on the structure's walls, thereby enabling minimal maintenance. Other water-friendly material choices are HPL (high-pressure laminates), brick, glass and timber. Latticed screens and strategically placed windows facilitate ventilation and bring in natural light that helps keep the home dry. Alongside, don't forget the flooring material. Anti-skid or textured floors are a boon in preventing slippage and accidents.” Ar. Rohini Bagla was of the view that to protect your home from leakages and water seepages, preventive measures were essential. “Apply waterproof coatings to external walls, terraces, and balconies to create a barrier against rainwater. Install weather stripping around windows and doors to prevent water from entering your living spaces. Raise electrical outlets above expected water levels to avoid electrical hazards. Ensure that the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation and invest in appropriate drainage solutions to direct water away from your living spaces.” Alpana Gupta, Partner, Vijay Gupta Architects shares, “Since balconies and terraces particularly are prone to flooding, all floor traps in balconies and the rainwater outlets on terraces should be cleared of dried leaves, potting soil and debris. If the house is newly constructed, construction waste like sludge from polishing, etc. gets collected in the drains, and should be cleared immediately. All gaps in floor tiles on terraces and skirtings–particularly at the entrance to a room from the balcony or terrace–should be sealed with epoxy grout/ silicon or some such waterproofing material. Leakages and seepages are the bane of any householder. To mitigate such situations, adequate diameter of pipes should be used for kitchen and toilet drains. It should be ensured that all wet zones in the house have proper plumbing and waterproofing done by skilled plumbers and professionals.” HOME DÉCOR Here are some ways to get the home immune to the weather with the help of the finest materials for luxury interiors, ensuring that your spaces remain exquisite yet functional throughout this season. Ar. Dipttii Khanna says, “In monsoons the weather is gloomy, ensure that the space remains cheerful and vibrant by adding vases filled with colorful flowers, such as lilies, tulips, jasmine, hibiscus, and daisies that can bring vibrancy into the home. In addition to flowers, add colored cushions and linens for a pop of color to the room. It is also advisable to replace heavy drapes with light shears and curtains to allow sunlight to stream into the room, creating a bright and airy atmosphere, and also act as a natural disinfectant. Scented candles can be placed along with accent pieces in a tray at different areas of the house to further enhance the ambiance. All weatherproof door mat is a must, so a quirky door mat can be added to your house entrance.” Gagandeep Kapila gives her suggestions, “Luxury interiors often call for the timeless beauty of natural stone. Opt for materials such as marble or granite for flooring, countertops, and accents. These stones not only appear appealing but also highly resist moisture. With proper sealing, they can withstand the weather, causing no harm to any surface and also ensuring that the interiors maintain their grandeur even during this season. For those who desire the warmth and richness of wood, engineered hardwood is an excellent choice for monsoon-ready luxury interiors. Unlike solid wood, engineered hardwood is designed to be highly resistant to wetness. Its layered construction makes it more stable, reducing the risk of warping or shrinking. In addition, laminate is a versatile material that can emulate the look of natural wood or stone while offering enhanced durability and dampness resistance. High-grade laminate is specifically designed to withstand humid conditions, making it a practical and chic alternative for flooring, cabinets, and furniture. Likewise, luxury vinyl flooring is gaining popularity in luxury interiors as it offers the look and feel of natural materials with the added benefit of not being reactive to mugginess. Luxury vinyl flooring is available in various textures and finishes, allowing one to create a persona that can withstand the challenges of the monsoons.” Ar. Rohini Bagla concurs that monsoon days can often be dark and gloomy, but your home doesn't have to be! “Brighten up your interiors with some simple decor ideas. Choose a light colour palette for walls and furniture to create an open and airy ambiance. Add ample artificial lighting with a mix of ambient, task, and accent lights to counter the lack of natural light during rainy days. Consider using light, sheer curtains that allow sunlight to filter through. Inject vibrant colours into your living spaces with colourful cushions, rugs, and artwork to create a cheerful and welcoming atmosphere.” Ritu Goregaoker expresses her decor, “Whenever possible, try to maximize the use of natural light by keeping windows unobstructed and using light-enhancing décor and it to come in as much as possible. Avoid cluttering of spaces which maximizes the impact of natural light. Whites, soft pastels, and light greys are excellent options for wall colours to brighten up your space in gloomy weather. Use lighter colour curtains and breathable materials for drapes and furniture to avoid dampness due to moisture and musty smells. Air your mattresses and linen before the season begins. The use of mirrors at strategic locations, reflect light and help in opening cramped spaces. Incorporate indoor plants and greenery to add a touch of nature and freshness to your interiors, which can make the space feel livelier and more vibrant.” To keep the interiors fresh and lightened up, biggest advice from Alpana Gupta is to buy washable curtains, preferably light ones in cotton or blended cotton linen. “In India’s hot climate, it’s refreshing to have fresh clean curtains draping the windows rather than the heavy ones with lining. Major decor elements should be kept simple and neutral, while one can splurge on good art pieces and thus play with colours. For instance, one can go for warmer colours as the weather becomes cooler. Always keep the windows open during the daytime to bring in plenty of sunlight as it works as a natural disinfectant and eliminates musty odours. Additionally, cross ventilation brings in fresh air, keeps the humidity levels low and reduces the chances of condensation. In monsoon season, furniture should be kept away from the walls to ensure proper circulation of air. Fabrics used in furniture should be breathable, and should be regularly turned over for ventilation.” The key to managing the dreary and wet atmosphere of the monsoon season is to minimise humidity in the interiors, says George E. Ramapuram. He too recommends incorporating natural fabrics in interior design during the monsoon season to add warmth, comfort, and handle moisture effectively. “Cotton fabric, known for its breathability and moisture-absorbing properties, is perfect for upholstery on sofas, chairs, and cushions. Linen draperies can provide a light and airy feel to the room while also absorbing excess moisture. Place water-absorbent and washable area rugs or mats near entrances to trap water and mud from shoes. Use eucalyptus poles as structural elements in interior spaces to add a rustic and natural touch to the design. These poles can serve as support pillars or columns, emitting natural oil that acts as a hydrophobic layer and insect repellent. Opt for wooden flooring as it acts as an effective insulator against external temperatures, providing consistent warmth and comfort to the living space.” Consider getting a repaint job done before the monsoon suggests, Rachna Agarwal. “Something in playful pastels or energising whites can weave magic into the interiors. Likewise, it is recommended to get rid of heavy drapery and tapestry. Rather use lighter, flowy fabrics and add colourful cushions and upholstery to perk up your day. Indoor plants are another great way to energise the interiors without breaking the bank. Not only do they purify the air — but the lush blooms during the rainy season bring in a happy vibe and induce a positive mood. Flowers also layer the interiors with a freshness and fill the room with subtle doses of colour.” KEEPING INTERIORS EXQUISITE & FUNCTIONAL As the monsoon season approaches, let’s discuss the installation of materials in your luxury interiors that not only exude elegance but also provide durability against the challenges presented by heavy rains and humidity. Ar. Rohini Bagla states, “The choice of materials can significantly impact the condition of your interiors during the monsoon. Opt for water-resistant flooring materials like ceramic tiles, stone, or vinyl to prevent water damage. Use paint with moisture-resistant properties to protect your walls from mold growth and maintain a fresh appearance. Choose furniture and upholstery with washable covers for easy maintenance, especially during the rainy season. Additionally, consider adding low-maintenance indoor plants that require less water to avoid water-related issues. Cover outdoor furniture with water-resistant covers when not in use to protect them from rain and moisture. Promptly wipe off any dampness from furniture surfaces to prevent damage. Ensure adequate air circulation around your furniture to prevent moisture buildup and mildew.” George E. Ramapuram adds, “Avoid placing furniture where rainwater can splash onto it, and maintain proper ventilation in the room or area to prevent humidity build-up. When it comes to outdoor furniture, opt for materials like teak, eucalyptus, or canes that offer durability and resilience against the harsh weather conditions, safeguarding your furniture during this season.” Rachna Agarwal says, “Some materials work all year round and are low-maintenance. For instance, wooden requires a little maintenance during monsoons but is durable and elegant. Wicker, bamboo or rattan are good options if you want something lightweight. Plus, they work well for the outdoors too. Regarding upholstery or furnishing, using natural materials that are healthy for our environment and us is recommended. Think cotton, jute, silk, etc. Another suggestion is to change the layout of your furniture. During monsoons, shift the sofa or seating arrangement away from the window or balcony area to prevent the sudden gush of rain.” Ar. Dipttii Khanna commented, “We should use more of natural materials such as stone or wood. However, when it comes to wood, it is important to take extra precautions before the monsoon arrives. Applying a varnish or wax coating on the wooden surfaces can provide a protective layer. During monsoons, it is crucial to use fabrics and textiles that are airy and light, such as cotton, linen, and bamboo. When it comes to furniture, wood coatings like varnish and wax can be applied to prevent it getting exposed to dampness and moisture. Apply a coat of lacquer or polish to prevent moisture from damaging the furniture, pieces, cabinets, chairs, wardrobes, etc. Along with ensuring safety, these suggestions will add life to the gloomy days and we can enjoy the monsoon season.” Ritu Goregaoker said Natural stones like marble and travertine bring a luxurious and sophisticated feel to interiors. “They are durable and can withstand temperature changes. Consider using performance fabrics for upholstery and curtains. They are stain-resistant, easy to clean, and can handle daily wear. Fibers like Cotton, linen, and wool are natural fibres that are breathable and suitable for the rainy season. Use moisture-resistant paint like semi-gloss or satin, especially in areas prone to dampness, such as bathrooms and basements. Invest in good ventilation systems and dehumidifiers to reduce indoor humidity levels and prevent mold and mildew growth on walls and fabrics. Exhaust fans or dehumidifiers to reduce indoor humidity levels, especially in closed spaces like wardrobes and cabinets go a long way in keeping your space from becoming overly humid. In the closed cabinets and drawers, one can place silica gel packs or moisture absorbers to help control humidity levels and protect items stored inside. Consider using waterproof or water-resistant furniture covers for items that are placed outdoors or near windows. These covers can help protect furniture from direct exposure to rain.” Gagandeep Kapila shares that in high-moisture areas such as bathrooms and kitchens, opt for moulded acrylic surfaces for countertops and vanities. “These surfaces are non-porous and offer a sleek and modern aesthetic. Moulded acrylic surfaces are also easy to clean and maintain, ensuring that your luxury spaces remain pristine even in the midst of heavy rains. When it comes to upholstery and drapery, choose weather-resistant fabrics that combine opulence with usability. Fabrics such as solution-dyed acrylic or performance blends offer excellent durability, fade resistance, and ease of maintenance, allowing you to enjoy your luxury interiors worry-free during the season.” Use eucalyptus poles as structural elements in interior spaces to add a rustic and natural touch to the design. These poles can serve as support pillars or columns, emitting natural oil that acts as a hydrophobic layer and insect repellent. . George E. Ramapuram When selecting materials, it is wise to prioritize those that are suitable for all seasons, taking into account the specific requirements of the monsoons. Gagandeep Kapila One of the first steps to ensure the protection of your home is to get waterproofing done on the outside of the roof and walls to create a barrier against water seepage and prevent any leaks that can lead to damage. Ar. Dipttii Khanna All gaps in floor tiles on terraces and skirtings– particularly at the entrance to a room from the balcony or terrace–should be sealed with epoxy grout/silicon or some such waterproofing material. Leakages and seepages are the bane of any householder. Alpana Gupta The use of mirrors at strategic locations, reflect light and help in opening cramped spaces. Incorporate indoor plants and greenery to add a touch of nature and freshness to your interiors, which can make the space feel livelier and more vibrant. Ritu Goregaoker Opt for water-resistant flooring materials like ceramic tiles, stone, or vinyl to prevent water damage. Use paint with moisture-resistant properties to protect your walls from mold growth and maintain a fresh appearance. Rohini Bagla A home's facade and open areas can be clad in a mix of concrete and textured tiles that mimic natural stone — a material palette that effectively discourages the build-up of moss on the structure's walls, thereby enabling minimal maintenance. Rachna Agarwal
Tags : Monsoon care homes rains dampen professionals shining Gagandeep Kapila Director Workshop for Metropolitan Architecture George E. Ramapuram Managing Director & Principal Architect Earthitects Ar. Dipttii Khanna Principal Architect Dipttii Khanna Designs Ritu Goregaoker Design Director. GA Design Rachna Agarwal Founder and Design Ideator Studio IAAD Rohini Bagla Principal Interior Designer Studio Rohini Bagla