Winter can be beautiful and fun, but it can also wreak havoc on your home. Snow, sleet, and ice can cause water damage in your home if the proper precautions are not taken to prevent it. Here are some simple ways to help keep your home safe from water damage this winter.
1. Clear off the Roof and Rain Gutters
Snow can be a big problem on your roof, especially as it piles up and gets heavier. If your rain gutters are clogged, it could cause ice dams that prevent the snow from properly draining off your roof as it melts. This can put a lot of weight and pressure on your roof, which could lead to leaks or even collapse. To save your roof and your home, you should keep an eye on your rain gutters and make sure they are not filled with debris or ice so that the water can drain off your roof safely away from your home. After a hefty snowfall, once it is safe, you should also clear the snow off of your roof to reduce the weight on it.
2. Insulate Pipes
A significant cause of water damage during the winter is pipes freezing and bursting. You can buy material to insulate any exposed pipes on the inside and outside of your home, and it is not difficult to install it yourself. You should also keep your home at a warm temperature. If you are going out of town, especially for several days, you should not turn your heater off because your pipes will likely freeze. You can lower your heat to no colder than 55 degrees Fahrenheit but do not turn it off completely.
3. Make Sure Windows and Doors are Sealed
If you stand near your window or door and feel a draft coming in from outside, your house is losing heat. Ensure all your windows are properly caulked, and there are no cracks around the panes. If cold air is seeping underneath your door, replace the weather stripping to seal it tighter. Not only will this help prevent water damage, but it will also help you keep your house warmer and your heating bill down.
4. Insulate Your Attic
Insulating your attic is another way to prevent water damage and keep your energy bill down. Adding insulation to your attic will keep it warmer without needing to use the heater so much, mainly because it is a room that people typically do not use every day. This way, you can keep the rest of your home warmer without wasting energy on your attic. But insulation will also help prevent ice dams from forming on the roof because the warmth will make it harder for water to freeze on your roof, so you will not have to worry about the roof getting damaged.
Water Damage in Michigan
If your Michigan home experiences any water damage this winter, be sure to call On-Site Specialty Cleaning + Restoration to help you get it cleaned up. Our team of experts will help you restore your home to feel safe from the cold weather this winter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does On-Site provide reconstruction services?
No, On-Site specializes in flood damage mitigation and restoration. We work closely with reputable contractors for any necessary reconstruction work.
How can I tell if my water pipes are frozen?
Signs of frozen pipes include reduced water flow or no water at all from faucets, unusual odors from drains, and visible frost on exposed pipes. If you suspect a water pipe freeze, it’s essential to act quickly to prevent bursting.
How long does it take to clean up water damage from a burst pipe?
The time it takes to clean up water damage from a burst pipe depends on various factors, including the extent of the damage and the drying process. Our team at On-Site works efficiently to minimize downtime and restore your property as quickly as possible.
How long does the contents packout process typically take?
The duration of the packout process depends on various factors, such as the extent of the damage and the number of items requiring restoration. We strive to complete the process efficiently while ensuring thorough cleaning and restoration.
How long does the water damage restoration process take?
The duration of the water damage restoration process depends on factors such as the extent of the damage, the type of services required, and the size of the affected area. On-Site’s experienced team works efficiently to restore your property as quickly as possible, minimizing downtime and disruption.
How long does the water extraction process take?
The duration of the water extraction process can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the size of the affected area. In general, our team at On-Site strives to respond promptly to water damage emergencies and initiate extraction and drying processes as quickly as possible. Factors such as the amount of water present, the type of flooring and materials affected, and environmental conditions can all influence the timeline. Rest assured, we work efficiently to restore your property to its pre-damage condition as soon as possible.
