Water damage during the winter is more common than you think, mostly because it seems so unlikely. Since snow is nothing more than partially frozen water, it can melt and leak into your home. Plus, the lower temperature puts stress on your home. This added stress increases the chances of winter leaks. From the common causes of winter leaks to steps you can take to prevent them, this guide will help you get your home ready for winter.
What Causes Winter Leaks and How to Prevent Them
Although winter leaks occur any time melting snow enters your home, here are some of the major problems to look out for.
Ice Dams
Ice dams are the most common cause of winter leaks. Unfortunately, they are also the easiest to overlook. As the snow melts and then refreezes, ice forms along the edge of your roof. As it thaws and freezes over and over, the water and ice can creep underneath your shingles. This will eventually cause a leak.
Signs of an ice dam are large icicles along the edge of your roof. The best way to prevent ice dams is to check your roof every fall for damaged shingles. Since ice dams are caused by repeated freezing, add more insulation as well. This will stop sudden thaws that lead to ice dams.
Worn Roofing Seams and Flashing
Another cause of winter leaks are worn-out seams and flashing on your roof. Although this can let water in any time of year, the low temperatures increase the stress on your roof. The cold causes most materials to shrink, making holes or gaps larger.
To prevent winter leaks, check your roof at least twice a year. On the outside, look at the shingles, seams and flashing for signs of damage. Inside, check the wood for water stains or rot that means water is already leaking into your home. You can fix small gaps with roofing caulk, but larger gaps or damage may require roof repair.
Worn Chimney Cap or Liner
Your chimney is another cause of winter leaks. The cap prevents rain and snow from entering the chimney itself, while the liner protects the chimney walls from corroding. However, both can wear out over time and allow melting snow to enter your home.
The biggest risk with chimney leaks is damage to the brickwork itself, but it can also cause leaks in your attic, basement, or room your chimney goes through. Inspect your chimney in both your attic and basement for water stains or loose mortar between bricks. If there is a leak, make repairs or have a new cap or liner installed.
Worn Window and Door Caulk
Windows and doors are often sealed with caulk to keep our water, drafts and even bugs. However, the caulk will crack and wear out over time. To prevent winter leaks, you should check the caulk along your windows and doors at least once a year.
If it is damaged, use a putty knife to remove it. Then apply a new bead of caulk to seal the window or door. For the best results, do not apply caulk while it’s raining, snowing or extremely hot or cold.
Frozen and Busted Water Pipes
Although less common, frozen and burst water pipes can cause major winter leaks. Since water expands as it freezes, this will put extreme pressure on your water pipes. If the pipe bursts, the water will flow until you shut it off.
The best way to prevent a burst water pipe is to add insulation around the pipe and keep your heat above 60° F during the winter. You should also shut off and drain outside faucets and water sprinklers to prevent winter leaks.
Did a winter leak damage your home? Get fast, reliable water damage cleanup services now. We always offer a 60-minute response and a free estimate on water cleanup, no matter the cause. Call 1-888-443-3110 now for your free estimate on cleaning up winter leaks.
