Winter-Weather Problems To Look Out for in Your Home

Snow, ice, and cold temperatures can take their toll. Stay cozy this season by avoiding these winter-weather problems to look out for in your home.

Everyone wants to spend winter somewhere warm, cozy, and comfortable. Unfortunately, winter brings snow, ice, and other weather that can take its toll on your home. That’s why it’s important to prepare your house to face common winter weather issues such as drafts, heavy snowfall, and freezing temperatures. When you know which winter-weather problems to look out for in your home, you can take the right steps to avoid these issues. Make sure the winter wonderland stays outside your home this season by avoiding these cold-weather dangers.

Snow and Ice Buildup on the Roof

Leaky roofs are a headache no matter what time of year it is, but they can be particularly hazardous in the winter. Snow, ice, heavy winds, and other winter conditions put extra stress on your roof and gutters, which can lead to loose shingles and other damage. Frozen water can also block your gutters, creating heavy ice dams that hang off your roof and down the side of your home. Make sure your roof is ready to handle the season by clearing out your gutters and repairing any damage before the extreme weather hits. It’s also a good idea to trim any nearby trees so that branches don’t snap in a winter storm and come down onto your roof.

Poor Air Quality

When winter comes around, you rely on your heating system to keep the house warm and cozy. If your system isn’t working the way it should be, it can leave you with a chilly house, a lack of ventilation, and poor air quality. It’s a good idea to inspect your HVAC system ahead of time so that you know it’s in good shape for the season. Clean out air vents and filters, as well, so that you don’t circulate dust and other airborne particles the first time you run the heater in your home. Finally, it might be a good idea to invest in a humidifier. Dry winter air can lead to dry skin and an irritated nose, throat, and lungs. Humidity can also affect any wood flooring in your home, causing costly damage as the hardwood expands and contracts with humidity levels. 

Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are among the top winter-weather problems to look out for in your home. When water inside of your pipes freezes, it expands and can lead to the pipe bursting. Fortunately, all you need to avoid this costly damage is insulation, warmth, or flowing water. You can use heat tape or foam pipe insulation as a simple way to protect your exposed pipes. If interior pipes also get a little too cold for comfort, open cabinet doors under the sink to help the warm air from your house flow around the pipes. For extremely low temperatures, open the water lines just enough for a slow drip. It will help keep water flowing, which makes it harder for your pipes to freeze.