Water Damage and Cold Weather

The time is now to prepare your home and business for the upcoming freezing weather. DisasterSafety.org offers ideas on how you can reduce your risk of flooding and water damage in and around buildings.

Check your plumbing and appliances. Plumbing supply lines should be inspected on a yearly basis. Refrigerators and freezers should have their hose lines inspected for damage. Washing machines, water heaters, and toilets should also be inspected about every six months. Shower stalls should have the pans inspected bi-annually and grout and tiles should be replaced if cracked or loose. Also make sure to inspect your sump pump.

In your building’s interior, there are many things that can help make sure you stay dry. Check windows, doors, drywall, and air conditioners for leaks. Also check for termite damage and ensure the humidity level in your home is between 30%-50%. It is a good idea, too, to have flood shields or barriers installed in basements.

Outside of a building, many things can be done to help ensure a dry building inside. Check the flashing where two building surfaces meet for areas that need to be replaced. Check the exterior siding and walls to ensure they are properly sealed and that natural, landscaping materials are not up against the building. Make sure the irrigation system is not sending too much water to the foundation of the building. Landscaping is also important in preventing water damage to a building or home. Make sure trees are properly trimmed and vines are not growing on the outside of the building. Have your roof inspected annually to see if any repairs need to be made.

Find out more about preventing water damage during freezing and cold weather.
Should your home or building suffer from any damage from water, call a restoration specialist to help you restore documents, books, archives, etc. Acting fast will help minimize the expense and time needed to help ensure a faster recovery. Find out more about the restoration process today!