Melting Snow Creates Water Damage

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

When shoveling, one should make a pathway so that all melted moisture can flow away from home.

Living in the Midwest has taught us that one minute it could be significant snowstorms, and the next, it will be direct sunlight as if nothing had happened. People don’t connect with snow melting, and flooding issues as these types of floods aren’t as common. Flooding doesn’t occur unless the ice freezes near the structure, creating tiny cracks in the foundation. The problem begins when the chilly weather subsides, and now you have the perfect doorway into your home as water has a way to seep into the house.

Water Damage to the Carpets

During the winter, the water will seep into the cracks, which cause water damage to the drywall, flooring, or carpets. When it’s cold outside, we usually keep the temperature of our homes warmer than usual which helps microbial growth if the water reaches the carpet. The development will thrive in these conditions, especially if the homeowners don’t allow proper ventilation outwards. Still, if you follow these tips, you can help prevent unwanted disasters.

Tip 1: Be Strategic with Shoveling

When shoveling, you should be strategic in creating a pathway for the water to flow once it starts to melt. Meaning if your home is on a hill, find a way that eliminates the risk of large amounts of water-absorbing around the foundation of your home.

Tip 2: Clear Excessive Snow off of the Roof

When you don’t adequately remove the snow off of your roof, you are running the risk of having a ceiling collapse or, even worse, the creation of ice dams. When trying to prevent these ice dams, we advise you to get all snow off first and then get on the roof to evaluate the drains. This ensures you can clear any frozen blockage, which stops the problem before it begins.

Tip 3: Check Sump Pump

You can test your sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the pump, which displays if it is working. Performing routine testings, you can help prevent flooding of the crawlspaces, around the foundation, and in the basement.

We have received a couple of samples of warmer days ahead on the bright side. Spring is right around the corner, which means even more ways for water to create problems for your home!