Winter weather is already arriving in some areas, so we thought we would remind our customers about ways to avoid water damage issues. Your family is going to be spending more time indoors, so the potential for floods, sewage spills, and broken pipes increases. The cold weather also has the potential to wreak havoc on the plumbing system when temperatures dip below freezing. Here is some advice from our water damage restoration experts on ways to avoid these problems in your home. We’ll also include our contact information in case you have an emergency in your home this winter.
Common Winter Water Damage Problems
- Roof Snow Pressure, Ice Damns, Or Ice Melt
As the winter months progress, your home will likely experience a build-up of snow. It adds immense pressure to your roof’s structure. It can cause the snow to collapse into your attic. Ice dams are caused by a poor ventilation system. Ice dams melt during the day and then freeze back at night, but they often cause flooding to occur. This usually affects your basement, crawl spaces, or attic areas the most. It is best to remove the snow before it accumulates and have Restore Pro technicians check your ventilation system for efficiency.
- Gutter Blockage
Throughout the year, your gutters are likely to experience blockages. If your roof is aging, fine particles will likely enter the gutter from the tile breakdown. Tree debris and animal nests also make their way into the gutter system. In time, it will lead to a blockage that will cause your drainage system to fail. As the snow and freezing rain become major factors during the winter, we recommend cleaning your gutter system at a minimum of twice a year. Otherwise, you run the risk of experiencing a major indoor flooding problem
- Water Heater Leaks
Water heater leaks can occur because of fluctuating temperatures, water valve deterioration, hard water buildup, or internal part malfunctions. We recommend calling us when you first notice a drip pattern because it may only require a small water heater repair. This will save you money and prevent a major flood or water heater explosion from occurring.
- Busted Plumbing Pipes
Frozen pipes are so common in the winter as they begin to freeze when temperatures fall below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. About a quarter of a million homeowners experience these issues every winter. When the pressure builds up, it causes the pipes to burst either outdoors, under the property, or inside the home. It can also be difficult to repair in cold weather.
- What happens when a pipe bursts in your home?
A burst pipe will cause water damage to occur. Depending on where the pipe is located, it can lead to minor or major damage to any building material (such as floors, walls, or ceilings) or household goods that moisture has contact with. When a pipe bursts, we consider it an emergency because the time is ticking to stop flooding and mold.
- Will homeowners insurance cover burst pipes?
Because it is water damage, a homeowner’s insurance policy should cover an unexpected plumbing issue such as broken pipes or flooding. If the damage was from negligence, the insurer will likely deny responsibility. That is why it is important to call us right away when you notice moisture or smell a musty odor in your home.
- Poor Insulation
Waterline exposure and dipping temperatures are problems that all property owners will deal with. While most plumbing systems are installed with the proper insulation, an unqualified repair person may not reinsulate the lines. They also wear down or develop fractures from tree roots. You can expect a flood or frozen pipes if not properly insulated.
While we recommend having a winter inspection, we also provide emergency services should water damage restoration be needed. All you need to do is give our office a call at 1-800-847-0114 or send us a direct message on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/RestorePro911/. We’ll be glad to offer a solution as well as help you prevent future water damage issues during the wintertime.
