When winter comes, it’s important that you be prepared for all the new threats to your home that it poses. New issues like frozen pipes, ice dams, and collapsed roofs all come into play.
From our water damage restoration professionals at GCPRO, here are four tips on how you can fortify your home against winter water damage threats early on.
Your gutters and downspouts are an important component of preventing water damage during the winter months. They need to be clear of debris and blockages so they can successfully divert melted snow and rain away from your home. You should clean out your rain gutters every couple of months to keep them clear. It’s especially important you do this right before winter since they will be filled with dead leaves during fall leading up to the winter.
However, simply keeping your rain gutters clear is not enough to ensure they will work properly. You also need to make sure that your downspouts are extended far away from your home’s foundation — at least five feet — so the runoff from your rain gutters does not pool around your home. Otherwise, your rain gutters will make the problem worse rather than helping.
Check your windows for any possible air leaks. If you notice your curtains moving or feel a cool breeze, there’s a good possibility that your window’s seal may be failing. To keep drafts out, there are a few simple things you can do. These include re-caulking your windows to strengthen the seal, replacing old windows that are more prone to leaking air, and installing curtains or shades to further help keep the cold out.
Insulation is a lifesaver throughout the cold part of the year. It can be used for many different purposes both to increase your comfort and prevent water damage. For one, placing insulation around your water pipes will decrease the likelihood of water freezing in them. This is a simple measure that can potentially save you from dealing with a huge water damage disaster. Insulation can also be used for exterior walls, attics, and basements to keep the heat in and prevent water damage. Don’t overlook the value of this simple tool!
Frozen pipes are a constant worry during the cold winter months. Once temperatures drop below freezing, the water in your pipes has the potential to freeze and expand, blocking off your pipes and potentially causing them to crack and leak. Pay close attention to the temperature so you know when you need to take measures to prevent frozen pipes like setting your faucets to a drip, insulating your pipes, and opening your cabinets to expose them to the warm air.
Don’t let winter water damage get you down! We at GCPRO hope you find these tips helpful for keeping these winter water damage threats at bay and keeping your home safe during the holiday season.
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