Winter is Coming: 6 Ways to Prevent Property Damage and Keep Your Home Safe This Season

11/5/2024 (Permalink)

November ushers in colder temperatures, and with that comes an increased risk of damage from winter weather. From frozen pipes to ice dams, homeowners and businesses need to take proactive steps to avoid costly repairs and property loss. SERVPRO of Marshfield/Rockland is here to help you stay ahead of winter’s worst, with tips on preparing your home or business for the season.

1. Protect Your Pipes from Freezing Frozen pipes are a major concern in colder months. When water freezes inside the pipes, it expands, which can lead to burst pipes and extensive water damage. To prevent this:

• Insulate pipes in unheated areas, such as attics, basements, and garages.
• Let faucets drip during extreme cold snaps.
• Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes, especially those under sinks.

2. Prevent Ice Dams on Your Roof Ice dams can cause serious water damage to both the interior and exterior of your home. The combination of snow and ice buildup at the roof’s edge can block melting water from draining off properly, causing it to back up under shingles. To avoid ice dams:

• Ensure attic insulation and ventilation are adequate.
• Clean gutters before snow and ice accumulate.
• Consider installing heated cables along the roofline to prevent ice buildup.

3. Inspect Your Heating System A malfunctioning heating system can lead to uncomfortable—and even unsafe—conditions inside your home. Check your furnace or heating system before temperatures drop to avoid a breakdown. If you’re unsure about the condition of your system, consider hiring a professional to inspect and clean it.

4. Maintain Your Chimney and Fireplace If you plan on using your fireplace this winter, make sure it’s safe. Creosote buildup and blockages can lead to dangerous chimney fires. Have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a professional before you light your first fire.

5. Prepare for Storms and Power Outages November often brings the first major snowstorms and ice storms of the season. Prepare your home by:

• Stocking up on essentials like water, non-perishable food, and medications.
• Checking your emergency kit, including flashlights, batteries, and blankets.
• Making sure your generator is in good working condition (if you have one).

6. Clean Your Roof and Gutters Leaves and debris can clog gutters, preventing proper drainage and increasing the risk of water damage. Clean gutters regularly and inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles before the heavy snow falls.

By taking these simple steps now, you can help prevent significant damage to your property during the colder months. However, if the worst happens—whether it's a burst pipe, water damage from ice dams, or a fireplace mishap—SERVPRO of Marshfield/Rockland is here to help restore your home or business to its preloss condition. Contact us for expert cleanup, water damage restoration, and winter weather-related services.