How to Prevent Water Damage in Springfield Missouri During The Winter
19 Dec 2019

How to Prevent Water Damage in Springfield Missouri During The Winter

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During the winter, water damage can occur because of frozen pipes that burst, ice dams forming on the roof of a home, or thawed snow entering a basement. However, using the following tips, it’s possible to prevent water damage in Springfield Missouri and keep the home safe.

Keep Pipes from Freezing

Proper precautions before winter arrives can help keep pipes from freezing and bursting. To protect your pipes and avoid water damage repair, use the following tips.

  • Insulate Pipes – In any unheated areas of the home, like a crawl space or garage, make sure the water pipes are covered with insulation.
  • Let Warm Air Circulate – Keep cabinet doors open so warmer air can circulate better and reach pipes in the kitchen or bathrooms.
  • Let Cold Water Drip – A slow drip in faucets connected to exposed pipes can help stop them from freezing.
  • Adjust the Thermostat – Keeping the temperature the same during the day and night can help protect against frozen pipes.
  • Shut Off Water Supplies – When going out of town, turn off the water supply and keep the thermostat set to at least 55 degrees. Also, have someone check on the home periodically.

Don’t Let Ice Dams Occur

Ice dams can cause a huge amount of damage to a home. Use the following tips to help prevent them from happening.

  • Remove the Snow – When the snow gets to be six inches deep, remove it from the roof. A roof rake can be used to avoid climbing on the roof.
  • Clear the Gutters – Cleared gutters allows melted snow to drain away from the home.
  • Insulate the Attic – An insulated attic helps keep warm air from entering, which can cause snow on the roof to melt. If it refreezes, it forms an ice dam.
  • Ventilate the Attic – Attic ventilation allows warm air to escape through the top and cold air to flow near the eaves.
  • Install a Water Membrane – A water membrane can help keep water from seeping in through the roof.
  • Install a Snow Shield – A snow shield goes under the shingles and can help prevent leaks.
  • Install Screens on Gutters – Screens on gutters can help keep out debris, so they don’t clog.

Other Water Damage Prevention Tips

Protecting the rest of the home from water damage can be crucial. These tips can help with that.

  • Get Leak Detectors – Install leak detectors anywhere a leak is possible, such as near sump pumps, water fixtures, and appliances. Fast response to leaks can help minimize damage.
  • Check Supply Lines – Check supply lines for appliances that use water at least yearly. Replace if any damage is noticed.
  • Get Additional Insurance – Add on sewage back-up coverage to the insurance policy. If melting snow overloads the system, this insurance can help clean up any water or sewage that backs up into the home.
  • Disconnect Hoses – Outdoor hoses that won’t be used should be disconnected so water won’t freeze in the line.
  • Clear Snow Around the Foundation – Melting snow can cause damage to a home’s foundation, so keep the area around the foundation free from snow.

Use these tips to help prevent water damage during the winter. However, if you do ever experience water damage in your home, call the professionals at PuroClean Certified Restoration in Springfield, Missouri, to do the water remediation job right the first time.