How to Assess Your Home for Winter-Weather Damage
Whether you’re dealing with rain storms, high winds or lots of snow, winter weather is making its mark across the country, causing varying degrees of home repair situations. Consumer Reports highlights four common problems often caused by harsh winters and offers tips for how you can remedy the issues…before they become more serious and more costly down the road.
1. Leaky roofs. Search your home for signs of water damage or discoloration. Be sure to check all ceilings in addition to the siding under roof eaves. Inspect rafters for stains and check in the roof, around chimneys and also near skylights. Fixing leaks is a job best left for professionals. If you choose to hire a pro, have them inspect for missing shingles or other roofing issues you may be unaware of. Fixing a roof is critically important if you’re planning on selling soon. If the damage is severe enough, look into your homeowner’s insurance policy and see if some of that damage can be covered.
2. Clogged gutters. Make sure that water can properly flow through and out of your gutters. Also, check for areas of separation or corrosion. These spots will need to be fixed immediately. Gutter guards can be added for the most extreme cases.
3. Damaged decks. Look for stains or other areas where wood may be decaying. Decaying wood weakens the deck’s structure. Examine the area where the deck connects to the house, and remove any moss or mold. If there is any sort of extensive wood damage, a pro should be hired to repair the issue. Depending on the age of your deck, a replacement may be warranted. Either way, confirming the structural integrity of your deck is imperative for your family’s safety.
4. Cracked foundations. Cracks should be marked and observed over time. If the area worsens, then it’s time to call for help. Make sure that the ground around the foundation slopes away from the house. For minor repairs, an epoxy injection could do the trick. For holes in siding and foundation walls, expandable foam might be the better choice. A structural expert would know the best solution.
Re-evaluating your home and taking care of needed repairs as soon as possible is a great way to keep your home in tip-top shape and at prime value – and the safety added as a result will be invaluable.
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