When is the Best Time for Frozen Pipes and Ice Damming Prevention in Sparta Properties?

12/6/2021 (Permalink)

As winter approaches, take time to protect your pipes from freezing.

SERVPRO Supports the Sparta Community for Winter Water Damage Cleanup

In the fall, the time to start prepping your Sparta yard and home for the winter weather ahead. A little preparation can help avoid some expensive situations caused by seasonal ice and snow. 

SERVPRO has recommendations for frozen pipes and ice damming prevention in Sparta property that homeowners create a unique checklist that applies to their properties using the following tips. Block off some time to inspect both inside and outside the home to cover everything. 

Outside the Home 

A leak in your roof can wind up costing five figures in water damages to your home, and there are a few ways it can happen, such as: 

• Ice dams forming on the gutters 
• Snow and ice damage to shingles allowing water to enter
• Clogged gutters can create backflow under shingles that enters the home

Cleaning the gutters is a priority. Leaves, dirt, and debris can build up and cause the water flow to slow down and, in some cases, stop entirely. In the winter, when the snow melts on a roof and flows towards the gutters, it encounters iced over gutters, it gets pushed under the shingles and can cause structural damage, including causing the gutters to tumble off the home. 

Inspect the Roof Closely

Using a pair of binoculars, homeowners can inspect their roof for cracked or missing shingles without getting on a ladder. If a closer look is warranted, SERVPRO can inspect the home for areas that need attention, such as skylights, the chimney flashing, and roof valleys. The technicians can also point out areas prone to ice damming. A proactive inspection to catch issues early on in their development can save thousands of dollars in damages and repairs. 

Frozen pipes can be prevented by bleeding outdoor lines and shutting off the inside valves that control the water flow to faucets outside the property. For further protection, hose socks made from Thinsulate also inhibit the potential for any water in the pipe to freeze from outside temperatures. 

SERVPRO of Cumberland, Morgan & White Counties at (931) 250-5333 supports the local Sparta community with the help for frozen pipes and ice damming prevention available 24/7.