Winter weather brings a lot of hazards to a homeowner’s doorstep. One can be snow and ice, which when left unchecked can build up over time, eventually leading to water leaks into the house as it melts. Any homeowner who lives in a cold region like the Midwest needs to be aware of these hazards so that they can take steps to prevent water damage to their homes. Here are some tips you can use to protect your home from snow and ice this winter.
- Safely Clear Snow and Ice from the Roof
It is important to clear snow and ice from the roof as quickly as possible. The longer it goes, the bigger an overhang will build up, making it more difficult to remove. Of course, this can be done by hand, but it can be challenging to accomplish on your own, so you may want to consider hiring a contractor who offers snow and ice removal services for help.
Protecting your home from snow and ice is important, especially if you live in an area with a lot of winter weather. It would be best if you never tried to clear snow or ice from your roof without the proper safety equipment, as you risk slipping and falling and suffering severe injuries. If you feel uncomfortable doing the work alone, you can always hire a contractor who gives roof-clearing services. They will be able to handle this task safely, ensuring that your home is safe from damage due to snow.
- Protect the Siding of Your Home from Snow and Ice
It is important to pay attention to the siding of your home. Siding left exposed to the elements for extended periods can become damaged by melting snow, causing water to leak into the house and eventually leading to the need for siding replacement. Any gaps in the siding that allow heat transfer also need to be filled, and any wiring needs to be protected from such leaks by being covered with plastic wrap or tape.
- Fix Roof Leaks
Once snow and ice have been removed from a roof, you must seal up any leaky areas so that water does not start to seep in. You can do this by applying a silicone-based caulk to the concerned size and then using an air-actuated caulking gun to expand it. This will ensure that water cannot sleep in and cause damage to your home. If need be, contact a roofing contractor to repair any damage. Always remember, that roofing replacement can still be done during the winter!
- Clean Your Gutters
It is important to clean the roof’s drain-off gutters regularly so that they can prevent snow and ice from accumulating and clogging them. This will also help to prevent water from leaking into the home, which can lead to the same problems that would have been prevented in the first place. Now is the time for a gutter replacement if anything is damaged beyond repair.
- Check for Water in the Basement
Water can often seep into the basement by seeping in through the foundation if snow and ice are allowed to poll around the outside of the house. It is important for any homeowner whose home has basements to check these areas for any water leaks so that you can fix them before too much damage is done. If a hole in the wall or area of the basement advertises itself as a leak, it is important to repair it immediately. Otherwise, water can damage the basement and everything else in its path.
Need snow or ice removal this winter? Unsure if something on your home needs repair? Get in touch with Schmidt Roofing today!
