Winter Property Damage - Avoid One of the Worst Things Ever!

ROOF ICE DAMS

This is a wall of ice that forms at the edge of the roof. When heat from inside melts the snow on the roof, water runs down and refreezes at the roof’s edge. However, when the ice hardens, it blocks water from draining from the roof and forces the water into your home. Here is how to avoid thousands of dollars in damages:

• Regularly clean gutters and remove debris
• Install gutter guards to prevent various fragments from entering the gutter
• Your attic should be properly ventilated and insulated
• Install a water-repellent membrane under your roof covering

Additionally, check roof and walls for the following:

• Ensure roof shingles are securely fastened so that water and ice do not wreak havoc and leave you with costly repairs
• Repair cracks in masonry so that water is prevented from getting in between bricks 

FREEZING PIPES

Frozen water in pipes can lead to pipes bursting. Pipes in attics, crawl spaces and outside walls are particularly vulnerable to freezing: 

• During very cold days, open cabinet doors in kitchen and bathroom to allow warm air to circulate
• All pipes near the exterior of your home should be properly insulated
• When temperatures are below freezing, keep a slow water flow from faucets
• Caulk small openings on exterior walls.

INTERIOR DAMAGES

Regularly check your HVAC system:

• Ensure adequate ventilation for fireplaces, stoves and space heaters
• Routinely inspect your heating system: furnaces, boilers and chimneys
• Check pipes and walls for cracks and leaks and have them repaired
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be working properly
• Skylights and windows should be checked for cracks and leaks

CONSIDER YOUR YARD AND GARDEN

Winter elements can cause weak trees or branches to break and fall, causing damage to your as well as neighboring properties. Ice on the ground can lead to slip and fall injuries, as well as major backaches, therefore:

• Trim trees and remove dead or loose branches  
• Shovel and put sand or salt on icy walkways

HOME INSURANCE

Your insurance policy will most likely not cover damage to your home that could have been prevented by proper maintenance. If you have noticed any damage caused by winter elements, do not wait until warmer days; make any possible repairs as soon as possible to prevent further damages. Take proper steps to avert damages from your home. Your best bet is to contact a professional roofing contractor, siding contractor, or windows replacement contractor, depending on your specific damage area.

These are just tips to be proactive and prevent damages to your property. However, you should strongly consider hiring a professional remodeling crew to remodel or repair problem areas.