Water damage is a threat that can occur at any time of the year and can cause significant harm to your property. It can ruin your walls, carpets, cabinets, and other valuable items. During the colder months of the year, freezing temperatures or thawing snow can lead to water damage if proper measures are not taken. To prevent such damage during the winter season, it's crucial to be aware of the possible risks and take necessary precautions to safeguard your home. Here are a few things to be mindful of this winter to avoid damage to your property
- Poor Insulation on Service Lines
It is essential to properly insulate any water line exposed to outside temperatures, especially during winter. Otherwise, there is a high risk of frozen or ruptured pipes. To avoid such situations, purchasing foam or fiberglass pipe insulation from a nearby hardware store is recommended. By using these materials, the pipes can be protected and prevented from freezing during winter.
- Freezing Pipe and Fixture Concerns
One of the most common types of damage during winter is burst pipes. When temperatures drop below freezing, the water inside the pipes freezes and causes the H2O molecules to expand. If the expansion is too much, the pipe will burst, resulting in unwanted damage to homes, buildings, and properties.Make a habit of leaving a small stream of water moving through the pipes by keeping a faucet barely open during frigid evenings.
- Snow Melts and Ice Damming
Homeowners often overlook the threat posed by melting snow on their roofs. However, too much accumulated melted snow can lead to flooding or mold growth. It is crucial to take immediate action to prevent damage. Using a snow removal rake is recommended to remove the snow off your roof safely after it snows. Cleaning out your gutters regularly is also important to prevent ice dams from forming. Any moisture that finds its way into the attic can lead to widespread water and mold issues.
If winter has caused water, flood, or mold damage for your household, you can always count on the experts at Lightspeed Restoration. Call us today at 800.620.4009.