Winter is approaching fast! Prevent Storm Damage today!

9/7/2018 (Permalink)

What You Need to Know About Preventing Winter Storm Damage

We all love a snow day!! But the reality is that major winter storms can wreak havoc in our everyday lives, causing inconvenience, discomfort and expensive damage. Keep your home protected from these disruptions by following these tips.

Keep gutters clear

• This keeps ice from building up in the gutters and contributing to the formation of ice dams, which may cause water to back up underneath shingles.
• Trim trees and shrubs back far enough so that they will not rub against or fall onto your roof or siding, even if weighed down with snow and ice. Remember, safety first. Call a professional if you need help.

Inspect the roof

• Keep an eye out for damaged shingles and roof flashing that can allow water and ice into your home.
• Ventilate the attic and insulate the attic floor to stop warm air in the house from melting snow and ice on the roof.

Check your Chimney

• Wind and heavy rains can lead to a leaky chimney and related water damage. Be sure your chimney has a chimney cap installed, and have the brick and mortar inspected periodically.
• The freeze/thaw cycle will eventually cause cracks.
• If your chimney is leaning, Get it repaired.

Invest in a roof rake

• If large amounts of snow accumulate on your roof, consider using a roof rake to remove some of the load that can cause leaks and even lead to collapse. 
• Check for loose or missing shingles.

Insulate pipes

• Look for exposed water supply lines that are located in unheated areas and exterior walls. Wrap them with an insulating pipe sleeve or heat tape to stop the pipes from freezing and bursting in very cold weather.
• Let water trickle from faucets connected to exposed pipes that run through unheated spaces to prevent pipes from freezing.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warm air circulation around the pipes.

Find the main water valve

• Know where the main water valve is located (typically in the basement or outside near the curb) so you can turn water off quickly if a pipe bursts.

Keep walkways clear

• Ensure personal safety after a storm hits by clearing snow and ice from sidewalks, steps and driveways. Treat these surfaces with rock salt or deicing products.
• For more environmentally safe products to melt ice on walkways, visit the EPA website for a complete list of recommended products. https://www.epa.gov/saferchoice/products

 To learn more about storm damage cleanup and restoration, contact:  SERVPRO of Lebanon/Hanover/Littleton at 603.298.6942