Winter is a wonderful time to hunker down on the sofa with a soft blanket and a steaming cup of hot chocolate, but while people may be cozy inside, the ice, snow and cold can cause damage outside. Damaged roofs, gutters, pipes and foundations can all cause major problems if prevention measures are not taken early.
- Roof and Gutter Failure
Snow and ice are heavy, and they can build up on roofs and inside gutter systems and cause cracks and broken shingles. Heavy branches can break off of nearby trees and damage roofs and other areas of the property. At worst, roofs can cave in and gutter systems can fall away from the house completely. Good roof snow removal plans are essential for any house that accumulates large amounts of snow during the winter.
- Broken Pipes
When the temperature plummets below freezing, pipes can crack and leak both inside and outside of the home. This can result in flooded yards, basements or other areas. To prevent flooding, ensure that all outdoor pipes are completely empty before cold weather begins. If flooding happens indoors, the water should be removed immediately, and the wet areas thoroughly dried to prevent mold. Call in professionals if necessary to ensure the home is properly dried and decontaminated.
- Cracked Foundation
As snow and ice melt during any thaws that occur throughout winter, water can seep underground into the foundation. When it refreezes, it can seriously damage the foundation, resulting in expensive repairs. Make sure that gutters are cleared and downspouts effectively route water away from the home to prevent excess moisture from seeping into the foundation.
Taking the proper steps to protect the house against any cold-weather damage that may occur is a great way to prevent costly repairs and insurance claims and enjoy watching the snow fall.