Keeping your home protected in cold weather.

Winter is upon us and this year has brought below -0 temperatures for most of the country.  Many are hearing their homes pop and crack in these cold temps.  Keeping your home protected from damage this winter let us look at ways you can achieve this.

Pipes that burst can be a big problem during this cold weather.  This will occur when frozen water will cause a build up between the blockage and the closed faucet. This usually occurs in attics, outside faucets, and under your home. To help prevent this from happening:

1. Locate any exposed pipes and wrap them with insulation.
2. Caulk around holes and cracks that maybe on the outside of your home near water pipes
3. If your home is unattended in the winter make sure your pipes are drained for winter.
4. If power is lost keep a slow drip running in your pipes.
5. Disconnect water hoses from your outside faucets.
6. If your pipes are in a cabinet open it to let the warm air heat the pipes.

Snow accumulation can also cause problems.  Make sure you are clearing snow away from stairs and window wells and places that may be issues when the snow begins to melt.  Look for heavy snow on your roof, this can be damaging cause of the weight of the snow and as it melts water can leak around your home. Make sure you are safely removing the snow,or you can hire a professional to help with the removal. 

Keeping your roof well ventilated can prevent ice from forming on your roof edge that creates damage. The temperature in the attic should be close to the air outside so that the snow does not melt and refreeze to ice. 

Keep your gutters clean from debris.  If the snow starts to met and water is blocked from draining, the water will be forced inside your walls. This causes flooding inside your home.

Many other resources and tips to be protected in this cold weather can be found at http://www.epa.gov/region03/winter/.   Stay safe and warm.