How a Winter Storm Can Damage Your Home

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Remove snow from the roof as soon as you can.

The Effects of a Winter Storm on Your Home

A winter storm at University Of Denver, CO, can damage your home in multiple ways. Wind, snow, rain and cold temperatures can negatively affect various areas of your house, but there are steps you can take to minimize the impact. Take care to prepare for the following situations.

1. Roof Damage
Snow and ice can damage your roof in a couple of ways. Piled-up snow can put too much weight on your roof, potentially causing it to collapse. Snow that melts and refreezes into ice can also create an ice dam. This makes it difficult for water to drain from the roof, causing water to leak into the ceiling underneath. To prevent these problems, remove snow from the roof as soon as you can.

2. Broken Windows
During a blizzard, strong winds can pick up debris and other objects in your yard. If they hit the building, these items can damage the outside of your house and may shatter some windows. If you are expecting a storm, clean your yard and remove or secure any furniture or other objects light enough to be carried by the wind. If there are nearby trees, consider trimming their branches as well.

3. Bursting Pipes
When the temperature drops during a winter storm, cold temperatures can freeze water inside your pipes. The expanding water can cause the pipes to burst and flood your home. Keeping the heat on or insulating exposed pipes can help prevent this from happening. Open cabinets with pipes inside to allow the air to circulate and keep the temperature consistent.
If your home is damaged during a winter storm, professionals can perform emergency restoration to return your home to its previous condition. However, preparing beforehand can save time and money. If you are expecting bad weather, take the necessary steps to get your home ready.