How You Can Prevent 5 of the Most Common Causes of Winter Storm Damage

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

Here in Albany, we know all about the common winter storm cycle where ice and snow start to melt on slightly warmer days, only to be replaced by more ice and snow when temperatures drop below freezing again. Unfortunately, this cycle can lead to significant damage to your property and belongings.

SERVPRO of South Albany County wants to help prevent major winter storm damage by taking proper precautions to keep your property safe. A little knowledge and preparation can go a long way to keep you safe this winter.

Here are 5 of the most common causes of winter storm damage and what you can do to avoid a potential catastrophe. 

Frozen Pipes that Burst

One of the horror stories that’s common in winter is pipes that freeze and burst. Even a small crack in a pipe (especially if it goes unnoticed!) can lead to significant leaking and damage. Making sure your pipes are correctly wrapped and insulated will make a huge difference when the temperature drops.

Ice Dams

Ice dams happen when snow that builds up on your rooftop goes through a repeated process of melting and freezing, often as a result of the rising and setting sun. When it’s in liquid state, water can seep under your shingles, and once that water freezes again, it can lift up and damage your shingles.

One of the best ways to prevent ice dams is to pay attention to your roof and make sure snow is swept away before it can build up. Be attentive of any signs of stress or damage to your shingles, and be sure to repair shingles ASAP.

Damage to Your Roof

Ice dams aren’t the only threat to your roof this winter. Heavy winds and continuous pelting from snow and ice can damage roofs, especially if/when they repeat over time.

Older roofs are often most susceptible to winter storm damage, so it’s important to make sure to perform routine maintenance on your roof to make sure it’s ready to last another winter. Pay special attention to your shingles and decking - you might even look for signs of water damage to your ceiling as evidence of a problem to the roof above.

Flooding from Melting Snow & Ice

Though melting snow and ice are often considered most problematic in springtime as temperatures thaw, melting can happen anytime temperatures start to rise.

Water can enter into your basement if there are cracks or other damage to your foundation walls or seams. Be on the lookout for signs of water damage to your basement or crawlspace when snow and ice are melting. 

Leaking

Leaks are probably the most common cause of winter storm damage, as they can happen anywhere your home has been damaged or otherwise compromised.

Although the most common leaks are through damaged roofs and foundations, they also frequently happen from gutters, windows, and doors. Make sure to pay attention to the caulking and seals around any entrance points to make sure no leaking will be allowed in.

If you’re dealing with major damage from a winter storm, our team here at SERVPRO of South Albany County is on call 24/7. We’re your local community experts in cleanup and restoration with all the specialized training and equipment needed to restore your property ASAP.