Protection tips can prevent winter damage to home
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Having already weathered several storms this winter, Lake County residents are enjoying a reprieve as warmer temperatures have halted major snowfall, at least for now. But with the La Nina weather phenomenon in action, meteorologists predict a cycle of heavy snow with intermittent periods of warming — winter isn’t over, and homeowners may want to take extra precautions to protect their homes from ice and snow damage.
Snow buildup on a roof can cause major damage if left untended. With enough weight on top, entire roofs can collapse, damaging ceilings, walls, floors and furniture inside the house. Taking care of the problem may be as simple as reaching up with a rake to knock the snow off, or it may require climbing on the roof with a shovel. Use extreme caution when climbing on a snowy roof, or consult professional roofers for help removing snow.
Make sure ventilation in your attic is adequate, because it’s important to maintain an indoor attic temperature that’s close to the outside temperature. Without proper attic ventilation, the warmth from inside will melt the snow on the roof and cause ice dams to form. An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow (water) from draining off the roof, according to the University of Minnesota Extension. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into the house, causing even more damage.
Snow can also build up in gutters and drains, preventing melted snow from draining off the roof properly. Keep gutters and drains clean to avoid drainage problems, and make sure that gutters and drains are connected firmly to the house. When weighted down with snow and ice, loose gutters can break off and could be dangerous to people below.
Snow around doors and windows can also cause problems, as the buildup can start to leak into the house. Be sure to keep these areas clear of snow, and be especially careful of doors and windows facing directly into the snow and wind.
Keep exhaust pipes and air vents from heaters and furnaces clear of snow and debris for the best efficiency from your heating system.
In really cold weather, remember to let faucets — especially those with pipes in outside walls — drip slightly to keep water from freezing in the pipes.
And don’t forget that trees laden with heavy snow pose a threat to anything under them, including your house. If overloaded, branches can break and crash down through the roof, so be sure to shake the snow off with a rake or other tool.
