Winter Storm Damage

2/17/2020 (Permalink)

Helpful tips for preventing winter storm damage.

When you think of storms, most people traditionally think of thunderstorms. These storms are usually accompanied by wind, rain, thunder, lightning and flooding. Here in Michigan we experience this type of weather through spring, summer and fall.  However, as Michiganders, we are also familiar with another type of storm, the winter storm. The Polar Vortex, The El Nino and La Nina, are weather patterns that can drastically affect our weather conditions throughout the winter months and wreak havoc on our homes.

Much like our spring and summer storms, there are things we can do to prepare for the winter months and the impending frigid temps. By winterizing your home you can help improve your home’s security during this season.

The following are some tips to help prevent damage to your home during a winter storm or prolonged, harsh, cold weather:

1. Much like summer storms, keeping your gutters cleaned is imperative during the winter months as well. Uncleaned gutters can lead to ice dams, which can lead to shingle damage, roof damage and potentially interior damage to your home.
2. Having any low hanging limbs trimmed around your house and power lines can be a huge benefit and a great preventative tactic. These limbs are usually the first to go when the ice begins to build up, and trimming can prevent a power outage or damage to your home.
3. If you go south for the winter, or plan on traveling during potentially frigid months, keeping your heat at 55 degrees is very important. Winterizing your home during times of prolonged travel is the best way to go. The money spent to have your local plumber winterize your home vs. the cost of a potential pipe break makes this a “no brainer!”
4. Insulating exterior walls where there are water lines is highly recommended. Of course, any improvements a homeowner can make to their home’s insulation is always a great idea for a multitude of reasons, specifically regarding this subject matter.
5. When the temperatures begin to plummet and our overnight forecasts have us below zero for consecutive nights, let your water run on a slow trickle in your sinks. (and please, make sure the drain is clear!!)
6. Leave the door of your kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities open during cold snaps and winter storms. Keeping the doors closed does not allow the heat to bring that space to room temperature. Keeping the doors open can mean the difference of several degrees, which can be the difference between pipe break and no break.

Need help?  Call SERVPRO of E. Jackson/SE Ingham Counties at 517-782-8533.