Water damage is a common cause of property loss in the US and can occur in any season. While sometimes water damage can be sudden, at times, some measures can be taken to prevent it.
Water damage that is sudden or extensive may be overwhelming. Water damage restoration services can help to tackle water damage so that the extent is minimized and complications prevented as much as possible. Proven Restoration LLC provides water damage restoration services in Harmaston and surrounding areas. This company aims to reduce secondary water damage and restore buildings to their pre-loss condition or better as soon as possible. Hence in this article, Proven restoration LLC shares some tips to prevent water damage when a cold snap is anticipated.
What is a cold snap?
A cold snap, also known as a cold wave or deep freeze, is a weather condition in which cooling of the air or an invasion of freezing air occurs over a large area. A drastic drop in the average temperature occurs that is well below the expected average in that region.
Water damage in winter
When the temperature drops during winter, certain causes of water damage, such as ice, snow, and varying temperatures, become inevitable. The sudden drop in temperature during winter makes homes especially vulnerable to water damage.
Major causes of water damage when the temperature drops
1. Ice Dams
When roofs are edged with ice, the melting snow on the roof does not drain off. The water accumulating on the roof can leak through, causing water damage to the roof, ceiling, attic, and interiors.
2. Freezing pipes burst
When pipes freeze, the water expands as it freezes, creating pressure that can cause the pipes to crack or burst open.
3. Flooding from melting snow
Melting snow produces water that can accumulate around the building's foundations if the drainage is inadequate or because of improper land grading. The water can seep through cracks in the foundation, causing water damage.
Steps to take to prevent water damage in a cold snap
- Keep the interior temperature consistent with the cold outside. Especially if the occupants are away, the thermostat must be set to a temperature higher than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Allow faucets to drip to keep the water flowing and prevent freezing in the pipe.
- Insulate the pipes or use pipe sleeves to keep pipes warm in unheated areas of the building and to avoid ice formation that blocks the pipe. When a freeze is expected, wrap up the pipes outdoors or in unheated areas.
- Store water hoses and lawn equipment in a garage or shed. In a cold wave forecast, shut off the water supply to appliances like washers in unheated areas.
- If a cold snap is expected, clear the snow off roofs to prevent ice dams that lead to water damage.
- It is better to ensure the roof is well maintained before winter, as water from melted ice can seep under old shingles, through cracks in the sealant, and other weak areas.
- Clear gutters of debris to prevent clogs. A clear gutter helps melted snow drain off without accumulating on roofs.
- Trim the trees with overhanging limbs near homes to avoid roof damage from falling branches which can lead to water damage.
In case of water damage in Harmaston, contact Proven Restoration LLC
Homeowners can take several measures to prevent water damage when there are warnings of an imminent cold snap. However, sometimes despite the best efforts or because of sudden weather changes, water damage may not be preventable. Proven Restoration LLC offers water damage restoration services in Harmaston and nearby areas in Texas. This water damage expert provides emergency water damage restoration around the clock. For water damage restoration in Harmaston, residents can contact Proven Restoration by dialing the number (713) 906-5133.