Typical Storm Damage Issues You'll See in the Winter

4/26/2020 (Permalink)

Broken rain gutter in a Hurricane, UT home

Typical Storm Damage Issues You'll See in the Winter

If you're like many other people in Hurricane, UT, winter isn't your favorite season of the year. The brutal weather can take its toll on your home, even if you're prepared for possible damage. It's good to be aware of some of the most common sources of problems during a winter storm. This can help you take the appropriate steps to mitigate the damage and keep you and your home safe.

Problems With the Roof
Your roof will often bear the brunt of severe weather. Wind, rain, snow, and hail can beat upon your house, inflicting significant roof damage. Some examples include:

• Broken or missing shingles
  
• Leaks, causing water damage
  
• Clogged or broken rain gutters and downspouts
  
• Collapsing roof from heavy snow
  
  

Plumbing Issues
When temperatures plummet below freezing in a winter storm, your plumbing system is at risk. Frozen pipes can cause bursting, expelling tremendous amounts of water onto your floors and other areas of the home. This type of flooding will require the expertise of a professional flood remediation team. Putting heat tape or insulation over the pipes can help prevent these problems.

Entryway Rotting, Mold
Think about how many times you exit and enter your home on a given day. This number will be a lot higher if you have multiple people living in your home and regular visitors. During a winter storm, people will track snow into your house, leaving water in the entryway. If you don't clean this up right away, it can rot door frames and encourage mold growth.

Stairs and Driveway Damage
If a blizzard or heavy snowfall hits your area, you know it's going to be time to shovel the driveway and sidewalks. The problem is, continual shoveling during the winter can chip away at the cement on the driveway and stairs. Consider using a rubber-bladed shovel to avoid this.
Old Man Winter is coming whether you like it or not. However, even the worst winter storm doesn't have to get the best of your home if you follow these tips.