The threat of water damage is a significant concern for property owners and property managers alike. The mere thought of returning home to a water-soaked living room elevates the blood pressure and causes anxiety.
It is much easier to employ experts in water damage mitigation and structural drying specialists rather than replacing property that has been affected by water. It is important to remember that many insurance policies exclude additional damages such as mold, which is among the most common repercussions of a disaster caused by water.
It is possible to test sure your house is water-resistant. To avoid any potential disasters this winter, follow these home maintenance tips.
Ways to Prepare for Winter Water Damages
1. Check Your Roof
Water leaks can occur following heavy rains or months of snowfall. Water leakage may be caused by a thick ice layer on your roof. Appliances and furniture could be seriously damaged due to this. It is vital to inspect the roof once it has been thoroughly cleaned.
Ensure to check the seals, as the breaks in seals could be damaged. In addition, you should be sure to keep away from letting pine needles and leaves build up on the roof. Flat roofs are more susceptible to this problem. The roof won’t stand up to extreme winters as leaves hold moisture. For more info, you can visit a property restoration website.
2. Patch Cracks
Any damage to the exterior walls should be repaired. Whether utilizing siding or plaster, it is critical to keep water out of exterior walls. This could lead to mold growth in areas that are difficult to access. Prevent your pipes from freezing to save you the cost of heating.
3. Insulate Pipes
Every pipe in your home, be it the attic or a heated area, can be susceptible to freezing. Burst pipes can happen because the water expands as it freezes. Even if frozen pipes are not standard in your region, insulating pipes can raise the temperature of hot water pipes and decrease condensation around cold water pipes.
A variety of methods achieves pipe insulation. Pipe wrap, heat tape, and pipe sleeves are only a few options. You should contact experts like water damage clean up in Sarnia for water damage restoration.
4. Clear Clutter
During the winter, your heating system is likely to be put to much use. Ensure that anything that could ignite is kept away from the vents for heating.
If placed close to a heat source, furniture, clothes, and blankets could cause destructive fires in the house. Space heaters are more vulnerable to tipping. You can visit the PuroClean website for additional information.
5. Check and Clean Gutters
Leaves can accumulate in gutters in the autumn months. This could cause obstructions and damage to the walls of your house. To let water flow freely, take out all the leaves. To check whether the gutters function correctly, you can use the garden hose.
However, if there are lots of buildups, you could employ a scoop. You can also get rid of the garbage by protecting your hands with disposable gloves. You can also check for cracks and leaks. If you discover additional damage or clogs, consult a professional.
6. Protect Entryway Floors
Make sure to place mats at all of your home’s entrances. Make sure they are only a few steps in length to remove any dust or moisture. Racks for coats and shoes should be placed in the entryway or the mudroom. A durable throw rug or seat can also be used to keep shoes away from your home.
In the winter, carpets are more susceptible to getting damaged than during the rest of the year. Carpets can get soiled from moisture and mud. Staining and mold may develop on the carpet if not taken care of.
