6 Tips for Preventing Winter Damage to Your Home

With the arrival of the winter season also comes a new set of risks for your home. It's important to take the proper precautions every year to effectively prevent weather-related damage.

Water. Fire. Wind. Oil. Vandalism. Here are our top six tips for avoiding winter disasters.

1. WATER HEATER

Drain your water heater tank at least once a year. Emptying and flushing the water heater are key steps in the maintenance process designed to clean or at least reduce limescale build-up in the tank. This saves energy and prolongs the life of the water heater by keeping it in good working condition.

Depending on the quality and hardness of the water, it is also recommended that you replace your water heater after twelve (12) years of operation, in order to reduce the chances your tank might leak.

2. FIREWOOD 

Keep only enough firewood in the house that is needed for a day or two. A large amount of firewood stored indoors can cause excessive moisture or attract insects, and creates additional combustible material inside your home.

If you have a forced air furnace, clean or replace the filters regularly during the heating season.

3. HEATING

If you heat with a hot water, oil, or electric furnace, it is recommended that you install thermostatic valves. These valves ensure your home has a better distribution of heat room by room.

In addition, make sure you clear away all items that are on or near the radiators. These objects will prevent the heat from being properly circulated.

4. AIR EXCHANGER

Clean the filters of your air exchanger. Air exchangers operate mostly during the winter season. It's very important to ensure that you clean the filters every two to three months to keep the air exchanger running optimally.

5. ROOF

For low slope and flat roofs, it is important to clear the excess snow on a regular basis. The extra weight from the snow could cause sagging or collapse and ultimately damage the structure. It's well worth the effort to shovel!

6. WINDOWS AND WINDOW WELLS

Clear snow from basement windows and windowsills. Heavy snow accumulation in front of windows or in your window wells could cause water infiltration during the spring thaw. Basement windows must also be free from obstructions as they should be treated as emergency exits.

Use these tips to prevent the most common disasters that occur during the winter season. Make sure you repeat each step annually so you are always prepared.

If your property has been affected by damage, call us right away.