Winter weather brings a host of hazardous conditions that can threaten your home: snowstorms, freezing rain, ice storms, and persistent freezing temperatures. Water damage is the most common result, but winter weather conditions can deliver a risk of fire damage as well. We’ll look at some of the most common hazards and the actions you should take if damage occurs.
WATER DAMAGE
Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are a common winter problem, easily brought on by sustained freezing temperatures. The risk can even be found in warmer or southern climates if arctic blasts extend southward and there is a lack of preventive measures and/or poor insulation. When temperatures drop rapidly and stay below freezing for an extended time, the water in the pipes freezes and takes up more space than its liquid form. The expansion can cause the pipe to burst, possibly causing significant water damage if not caught quickly.
Ice Dams
Ice Dams are more likely to occur in areas that receive heavy snowfall. They are formed when accumulated snow on the higher part of a roof melts (at a temperature above 32 degrees) and runs down to the lower part of the roof, where the snow is below 32 degrees. The melted snow can refreeze, forming an ice dam that will often clog the gutter and soffit with ice. Consequently, water will not be able to run off the roof, forcing it to leak through the roof or under the soffit. If left unattended long enough, the water will leak into the attic and eventually into your property’s interior ceiling and/or walls.
Signs of Water Damage from a Burst Pipe or Ice Dam
The appearance of water on your floor is the most obvious sign and an alert for immediate attention. Sometimes the damage might not be so noticeable or immediate. Signs to look for include:
- Water rings or stains on the ceiling.
- Bowed or sagging ceilings.
- Paint that has started to peel, bubble, or flake.
- Softened drywall on walls that start to sink inward.
- Musty odors and mold growth.
- Stains or other discoloration.
Immediate Steps to Take
Water damage can spread quickly, exacerbating the possibility of hidden damage and mold, leading to more extensive and costlier repairs.
Turn off the main water valve (steps to find the valve and turn it off are here).
Move valuables out of the water-affected rooms if it is safe to do so (if there is standing water, make sure the electricity is off).
Take photos or videos and record any instances of loss, such as damage to your property, personal documents, and other valuables. An updated home inventory documented through photo or video before damage, will greatly assist in the insurance claims process.
Place blocks or foil under the legs of your furniture or move furniture to a dry location.
Contact your insurance representative to find out whether you should file a claim and how to get started if deemed necessary.
- Call a trusted restoration professional for help extracting the water and properly drying out the home. In addition to water extraction, restoration experts can speed the process with dehumidification equipment and temperature controls. They can also apply treatments for mold mitigation.
FIRE DAMAGE
Winter Weather Fire Hazards
Common causes of fires during severe winter weather are:
Overloading wall outlets and extension cords.
Plugging portable heaters or heating equipment into an overloaded outlet.
Placing flammable materials too close to space heaters.
- Leaving fireplaces unattended.
Actions to Take for Fire Damage
Disconnect the power supply if necessary.
Evaluate the severity of the damage.
Take photos or videos and record any instances of loss, such as damage to your property, personal documents, and other valuables.
- Contact a restoration professional to begin the recovery process. Expert help will be needed for soot removal and odor control, as well as content removal and restoration.
If winter weather wreaks havoc on your home from water or fire damage
,. ServiceMaster DSI is here to help. Our experts will inspect your home and determine a course of action. Our water and fire damage experts are qualified to restore your property and will work hard to revitalize your home as quickly as possible. Contact ServiceMaster DSI at 844-413-3130 for services in your area. We are available 24/7/365 to help restore your home.
