More on Weather and Real Estate

As I type, thunder rumbles, so I ponder the weather. Weather is major determinate of microclimate, and daily quality of life. Weather data can be very useful when considering location, location, location for your real estate purchase. Weather Underground has done us all a great service by aggregating very specific weather information and making it easily accessible.

Bronzesea

Type in the zip code of the area you are considering and get a wealth of local weather information. One of my favorite aspects of their site is the access to data from local weather stations. Take advantage of the many stations whose data is available here. Type in a specific address of a property, and see the property and the nearest weather stations on the satellite map. If this is too technical for you, and you are OK with more generalized information there is also the Weather Channel site.

SFSU

Add a little self knowledge about what kind of weather makes your soul sing, and you are prepared to make an informed decision about the reality of day to day living in your potential real estate purchase.

Polyvore

Stormy Weather and Real Estate

The leading edge of storms come from the south here at the golden gate. So, while your south facing terrace is a boon in terms of warmth and light, you may have south facing windows or doors suddenly blown open when the storm hits. No worries as long as your doors, siding and windows are in good shape. They will take the brunt of sun and rain and storm wind over time though, so good maintenance is key to the integrity of your building.

wunderground.com/

When looking at property, south facing windows, doors and walls merit close inspection by your contractor and pest inspector. Sun bakes this side of the house (when it's not foggy) and weakens it over time, and then wind driven rain can work its way into buildings, causing "dry" rot and deterioration of the structure. 


When it comes to buildings and moisture, "a stitch in time, saves nine". A little scraping, caulking and painting can save you big money by preventing moisture from breaching the exterior. Consistent yearly maintenance, and if necessary, upgrading of windows and doors is good investment for the future of the building. 

Whole Building Design Guide

It's not too late for window maintenance, or to make sure your gutters are clean and flush with the roof, but work that opens up the exterior siding is best done next dry season.  Smart homeowners who want to upgrade their windows will do it well before winter storms (plan now, for next summer!) since often there is hidden water damage under the siding (or stucco), which can be a big can of worms. More moisture from rain is the opposite of what the building needs. 

Trees and Plants Deter Crime, Make Us Happy

So it seems time to give trees some credit. They don't mean to create neighborhood strife. Assuming they are right sized and appropriate for their locations, trees offer shade, oxygen, beauty and habitat. There is evidence that trees can reduce crime, as well as increase property values, keep our children healthy, and generally contribute to a great feeling neighborhood.

Robert Schlegel

"Defensible space" refers to space around homes for protection from wildfire or from crime. The latter definition came from Oscar Newmans work beginning with the publication in 1972 of Defensible Space.  Trees and/or other appropriate plants can be a key part of crime deterrance through environmental design.

Palas por Pistolas

Just before I had a chance to publish this post, I was blessed with an invitation to this event (my photo from the mezzanine below). This project is one of so many inspirational ways people are improving their homes and neighborhoods with strategic plant life (which I shall continue to highlight and rave about in further posts!)

Kim Cooper

It was great to hear Willie Brown in wax poetic about plants improving the neighborhood, and how great they are for people and butterflies in the city.   In the country, well, trees/plants are one of the main reasons people like to live in the country, though they may not realize it. Plants plus people in community equals high quality of life!

World Changing NY