Water damage can happen at any time, at any season. But sources of water damage can somewhat change as the season switches. Fall is a great time to check your home from the damage it has experienced from severe storms in summer and it is also a time to prepare your home for the coming winter season. Doing these things done now can keep you from having insurance claims and to prevent you from spending hundreds to thousands of dollars for repair. Below are some things you can do to prepare your home and prevent water damage in winter.  

Check Your Pipes And Plumbing

Pipes and plumbing are some of the potential sources of water damage. During low temperatures, these items of your house, both external and internal, can be prone to freezing.  

• Inspect the condition of your pipes. If the water pressure suddenly became low, it could possibly be blocked by tree roots or it has started to become deteriorated. Hire a plumber to properly check your pipes and make sure that they are in good condition.
• Insulate exposed plumbing. To avoid freezing and potential rupture this coming winter, consider insulating water supply lines that are routed through unconditioned areas of your home such as attic and crawlspace. This plumbing system can be prone to freezing. Frigid outdoor air can pass through small openings, such as electrical holes. Make sure to seal any openings to prevent this air from touching plumbing.
• Clean the gutters. Falling autumn leaves or other debris may clog gutters and can cause overflowing during winter rains or when the snow starts melting. Overflowing can lead water to penetrate the exterior walls and siding and will allow water to intrude on the internal part of your home causing severe water damage.  

Check Roof, Attic, and Chimney

In colder temperature or during a winter storm, the roof, attic or chimney (if damaged) can allow water to permeate your home. Checking them before the winter strikes can prevent you from having a water-damaged home.

• Do a roof check. Summer storms and sun can damage your roof. This season is the best time to check your roof for any defects. Replace or repair any missing shingles. If you feel unsafe accessing your roof, or if you are in doubt of the condition of your roof, you may hire a professional roofer contractor to help you inspect your roof and perform necessary repairs.
• Check your attic or crawlspaces. It is often wet in the fall months and summer has probably brought a lot of rains. The water that impacts the wall of your home can cause moisture to seep into your attic and crawlspaces. A simple leak from your roof can also cause your attic to experience water damage. Check your attic or your crawlspace every fall or twice a year to make sure that everything is sealed up and to fix any moisture problems.
• Inspect your chimney, fireplace, and furnace. Checking these areas of your home will keep you from having costly repairs due to emergency water damage. Inspect the condition of your chimney, both indoor and outdoor. Clean the flue, check the flashing and make sure that there is no build-up of debris. In addition, your heating system should function properly during this season and the colder season. Have your HVAC checked by a professional to see potential damage and to ensure its heating efficiency.

Secure The Exterior Of Your Home

As there are interior sources of water damage, there could be sources of water damage outside of your home.

• Secure outdoor furniture. While it could be great to have a cozy outdoor patio in fall, winter storms can blow away outdoor furniture or other personal belongings and can potentially damage the exterior of your home causing water to penetrate inside. Keep them in proper areas and secure that they won’t blow out during severe weather conditions.
• Reinforce windows and doors. Winter storms can shatter your windows and doors causing breakage and eventually allowing water to seep in. Reinforce them by installing a shatter or plywood.
• Trim overhanging tree branches. While trees are beautiful in fall, they can be the culprit of damage in your home. Make sure to cut back overhanging branches that may not hold off the weight of the winter snow. It is best to give your home a three-foot safety margin, no limbs or branches are hanging on your roof or walls. Moreover, fall is also the best time to remove any dead trees or plants.

While you are enjoying the last bits of summer and welcoming the cool breeze of fall, make sure to inspect your home and give it basic maintenance to ensure that it is ready for the coldest season of the year. It is imortant to remember to be safe 

But if you are now dealing with water damage due to severe storms of summer or any source of water damage, please contact us immediately to take the necessary actions.