Prepare Your Property for Winter Storms

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

You can minimize damage to your property from winter storms by preparing for them before they hit.

We all love to see the first flakes of snow whirling around. However, winter storms can cause damage to your home. 

Winter storm damage can occur from multiple sources: extreme cold, high winds, snowfall, ice and more. Storms can cause direct damage to structures and also lead to secondary damage from causes such as stove fires or burst pipes. 

Well before icy winds start blowing, it’s smart to prepare your home for winter storms and get mentally ready with a plan for what you’ll do if you’re stranded in your home.

Before the Storm

• Protect exposed pipes.
• Check weather stripping and insulation.
• Identify heat sources in case power fails.
• Check fire and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Check fire extinguishers.
• Fill propane tanks and replenish wood piles.
• Create an emergency kit with supplies such as medications, nonperishable food and extra batteries.
• Prepare a battery-powered radio or other news source that doesn’t rely on electricity/internet so you can follow storm updates.

During the Storm

• Leave taps dripping if you lose your main heating source.
• Use precaution with extra heating sources.
• Check news for storm updates and local warnings.

After the Storm

Now is the time to check for damage to your home and other property (and possibly to make insurance claims).

• Clear snow away safely.
• Check your heating sources and water pipes. Resupply fuel.
• Check your house and other structures for damage.
• Look for ice dams that can build up on your roof (icicles are a warning sign) and take safe steps to eliminate them.
• Ventilate any areas where carbon monoxide may have accumulated.

If you live in Marshalltown, Dike, Eldora, Wellsburg or anywhere in Marshall, Hardin, Grundy or Tama County, and your home has winter storm damage you can’t repair yourself—such as water damage from a burst pipe or leaking roof—SERVPRO of Marshalltown can help. We can also assist in preparing insurance claims. Contact us at any hour for a consultation or immediate assistance.