Here are a few common problems that can arise in winter, and what you should know to stop them.
Ice Dams
Roofing leaks aren’t limited to spring showers. In the winter, the freezing ice on your roof may have thawed water underneath due to the heat that comes out of your own home. If it backs up under shingles or flashing, you’re going to have a leak. If you see a leak, then head to the attic with a few buckets and pans. Use a flashlight to pinpoint the problem area and put a bucket in place to keep the water from damaging more of the structure. See if you can get a professional roofer out to remove the ice dam from your home, and tarp off the area until you can have the repairs handled.
Blown Water Lines
As temperatures fall, water lines become susceptible to freezing over. Any sink on an exterior wall is at a higher risk for freezing lines. When sub-zero temperatures are predicted, open the cabinet below the sink to let more heat circulate around the pipes. Leave the water running on a slow drip to keep the fluid moving, and prevent ice from forming. If the line is already blown, then shut it off at the valve below the sink. If you cannot find the individual shut-off valve, then you may need to turn off water to the entire house while you wait for a plumber. It’s better to go a little while without water, than it is to let water pour over your floor and cause permanent damage to the structure.
Winter can be harsh, especially in areas with heavy snow falls. A critical prevention is a heavy snow laying on your roof. A heavy, wet snow can bring your roof down:
- Another read: what you need to know about snow on your roof
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Malfunctioning Furnace
If your furnace just doesn’t seem to be blowing much air, then you may have a dirty filter. You can easily replace this yourself, and see if the problem resolves. If it doesn’t, then you should have the system professionally assessed and repaired before it breaks down completely. Professionals at Cape Fear Air Conditioning & Heating Co., Inc. say you can prevent the problem by having your system serviced at the beginning of the season.
When you’re ready for an emergency, then you’ll know what to do if disaster strikes. Rather than taking your chances with an unexpected situation, ensure you’re prepared ahead of time by learning where shutoff valves are, keeping an eye on the roof for ice buildup, and having your furnace tuned up.
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