Winter brings cold weather and snow, creating a beautiful scene. While kids enjoy playing in the snow, homeowners face challenges. Snow and ice can damage your home inside and out, and there’s also a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and fires. The good news is you can protect your home from winter’s harshness. We’ve created this simple post to help you prepare. If you have questions, contact our office at 617-298-0655.
Get Your Pipes Ready for Winter
One of the most common winter-related home damages results from frozen pipes that burst, causing extensive water damage. When pipes burst, a large volume of water can flood your home’s foundation. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent this type of damage.
First and foremost, maintain your home’s temperature at 55 degrees Fahrenheit or higher to prevent pipes from freezing.
If you notice low or no water flow from a faucet, it’s likely due to a frozen pipe. You can address this issue by identifying the frozen section and using tools like a hairdryer, heater, or electrical tape to thaw it if it’s accessible.
Additionally, insulate your pipes with foam covers to keep them protected. During extremely cold periods, remember to open your taps slightly to allow water to flow through the pipes, reducing the risk of freezing.
If you need a plumber, we can recommend a great local one.
Examine Your Roof
To safeguard your home from potential damage, it’s crucial to inspect your roof before the first snowfall. Look out for any signs of damage, such as loose or broken shingles that can be vulnerable to storms and melting snow. Check the condition and sealing of chimneys. If you notice minor repairs needed and have the skills, address them yourself. Otherwise, enlist the help of a professional roofer or handyman for necessary maintenance. Keep your roof and guttering clear of debris to prevent rot and ensure proper water drainage.
Contact us, and we can connect you with top-quality roofing companies in your area to ensure you receive excellent service.
Get Ready for Power Outages
During heavy winds and snowstorms, power outages can leave your home dark and cold. It’s smart to prepare for this by having a generator, flashlights, and extra batteries on hand. A battery-powered radio will keep you updated on the weather, and a solar-powered cell phone charger can help you stay connected with loved ones and access weather updates.
Check Outdoor Lighting
Before winter arrives, check your outdoor lights. In the dark and icy conditions, accidents can occur. Replace bulbs that might not last through winter. You can save money with sensor lights or bulbs you can control with your smartphone.
Watch for Icicles and Ice Dams, and Get Rid of Them
Watching icicles form on your home can be fun, but they can also be dangerous and cause damage. To remove icicles safely, wear safety goggles and a hard hat. If they’re too high or large, call a professional. Always caution children to avoid icicles.
Ice dams can occur due to poor attic insulation or leaks. It’s best to hire a professional to identify these issues. And, once again, remind children to steer clear of icicles.
Keep Driveways and Sidewalks Cleared
Snow-covered sidewalks and driveways can be dangerous when they turn icy and slippery. Keep your family and visitors safe from slips and falls by having snow shovels ready. Clear a safe path to your home. You can also use a snowblower if you have one. After clearing, sprinkle rock salt to prevent ice formation. If you’re not able or not well or it’s a big job, reach out for help. And, remember to wear protective clothing like boots, hats, and gloves to avoid frostbite.
Your Living Environment
In the winter, when your family spends more time indoors, there’s a higher risk of illnesses spreading. Bacteria can thrive in warmer indoor environments. To prevent this, consider keeping your home slightly cooler by lowering the thermostat by about five degrees. This not only reduces the risk of infections but also saves on heating costs.
Filing An Insurance Claim
Most insurance claims happen in winter and spring due to property damage. To ensure you’re covered, if you susoect a possible claim, reach out to your local independent insurance broker and review your insurance policy, especially the sections about burst pipes and basement floods. If you’re not covered, consider updating your policy or switching insurers.
Keep your policy details handy, store them in a safe place, and save your insurer’s contact info on your smartphone. When buying new items, keep receipts to speed up the claim process if needed.
Your Local Independent Insurance Broker
Talk to one of our customer service agents to update and make sure you have the insurance that suits your needs. Vargas & Vargas Insurance is an independent agent, which means we can offer coverage from various insurance companies to match your budget and requirements. Contact us at 617-298-0655.
