Winter brings rain, snow and cold temperatures. Harsh weather can wreak havoc on your home or business. Make sure that your property is winterized and ready for all that winter throws at it. There are a few main culprits that are important to mitigate before the storm in order to lower your chances of experiencing storm-related water damage. Use ServiceMaster of Germantown’s tips to keep your home maintained all winter long.
Frozen Pipes
Outdoor or exposed water pipes are most likely to freeze in the winter months. Use the following tips to protect your water pipes and avoid a burst pipe.
- Maintain a consistent temperature of at least 55 degrees in your home at all times, even at night and while you’re not at home.
- Keep your garage door closed when not in use.
- If you’re expecting unusually cold weather, keep your cabinet doors open to allow warm air to more easily flow around your water pipes.
- Turn off exterior faucets and store your hose away from the elements.
- Consider insulating your exposed pipes. You can do this with pipe wrap, a foam covering or spray foam.
- Choose the method you’re most comfortable working with at your local home improvement store, measure and apply with duct tape.
Winterization
Moisture and cold air often find their way inside of homes through gaps in windows and doors. Keep moisture out and warm air in by weather stripping and insulating susceptible areas of your home.
- Walk around the perimeter of your home checking windows and doors for small openings.
- Once you’ve identified gaps, choose the weather stripping that works the nest for your home. One of the easiest options is an adhesive-backed foam.
- Measure your foam strips, cut and apply carefully.
- Also, consider adding insulation to your unfinished attic or basement.
Storm Damage
Before the next storm hits, inspect your home for potential damage that will make it easy for moisture and cold air to seep in.
- Check your roof for missing shingles, cracks around your chimney or clogged gutters.
- Keep an eye on exposed pipes, appliances, your entryway and stains on your ceilings and walls.
- Maintain your sump pump throughout the year. If it’s been a while since you’ve seen your sump pump in action or changed the battery, do so now.
- Make sure your sump pump is working effectively by performing a test. Do this by pouring five gallons of water in your sump pump’s pit then watch it go to work. If your sump pump does not efficiently remove the water, you may have a blockage.
ServiceMaster of Germantown is your local fire and water damage, restoration expert. We hope these tips help you avoid winter damage. If you do experience weather-related damage, contact us at 901-854-6225. Rely on our team of experts to walk you through the entire process, even communicating directly with your insurance provider. We’re available 24/7 for emergency restoration services. Our team also provides extreme cleaning, floor care and more. The sooner you call, the more damage we can prevent.
Photo by: istockphoto.com/Julia_Sudnitskaya
