Winter has a way of testing your home in Charlotte. You may have water stains from the last season you put off repairing, or be concerned as to what the coming months will bring. And should a pipe give way in the first hard freeze, is there a plan?
We at United Water Restoration Group of Charlotte have been of service to homeowners in the Greater Charlotte area for some time now, since 2019. We are well aware how an oversight in the fall can become an expensive matter of winter water damage. Give us a ring at (704) 228-8888 if you need to put an end to such issues.
The Carolinas do not make for predictable winters; after a mild week one can be caught unawares by a sudden freeze. A measure of forethought is all it takes to spare yourself some trouble down the road. We would put forward the following before the cold weather makes itself known.
Clean and Inspect Your Gutters
There is only so much beauty in fall leaves before they start to clog up your gutters. Improper drainage means water will back up and go where it ought not to. In Ballantyne, Matthews and Huntersville we see this as a prime source of winter water intrusion.
Make sure to do the following come winter:
- Clear out any debris, twigs and leaves from the gutter runs
- See that downspouts are putting water a good few feet from the foundation
- Put an eye on loose fasteners or sagging
- For rust, cracks or seams that have come apart
- A hose rinse will tell you if the water is running free
Keep Your Pipes from Freezing
The pressure of expanding water is enough to crack a pipe and flood your home once it thaws, making frozen pipes a top culprit of winter damage.
Around the house you can do the following to mitigate the risk:
- Put insulation on pipes in the attic, garage or crawl space
- Drain and put away outdoor hoses ahead of a freeze
- Use insulated covers on exterior faucets
- Be sure you know the location of the main shutoff valve
- An open drip on the faucet will keep water in motion in very cold weather
Should you be away in the colder part of the year, leave the heat on at a sensible level instead of shutting it off; it will protect the interior pipes.
A Look at the Roof and Attic
Small defects on your roof will only compound in the winter. One shingle out of place is an invitation for water during a storm or when the snow melts.
Check these off your list with the change of season:
- Shingles that are curling, cracked or gone
- Any damage to the flashing on vents and chimneys
- Water stains in the attic
- That the attic has the right amount of ventilation for moisture control and the insulation to stave off ice dams
Your Sump Pump
If you have one, put it to the test this fall. A pump that does not hold up will mean a flooded basement or crawl space when a winter thaw or storm puts more water in the ground than you count on.
Put a bucket of water in the pit and observe. The pump should engage and drain without question. If it does not, better to deal with it then and not in the middle of a crisis.
Windows, Doors and Foundation
Moisture and cold air will find their way into your walls and floors through small openings. Seal them up for a warmer home.
- Caulk the perimeter of windows and doors
- Put in new weatherstripping where it is worn
- Fill in any foundation cracks you can see
- Examine basement walls for moisture
- The seals on utility lines and exterior vents
Of Course, Water Damage Can Happen
You can prepare as you like but a problem free winter is not assured. Roofs will leak and storms will come unannounced. You do not have to face it on your own.
United Water Restoration Group of Charlotte is here for homes and businesses round the clock for restoration of water, fire and mold damage. As a locally run, licensed and insured IICRC Certified Firm our leadership has in excess of 50 years between them in the industry and we stand behind our work with a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee. We work with your insurance company and provide claims assistance as well as free estimates.
For a same day inspection when you need it, call United Water Restoration Group of Charlotte at (704) 228-8888.