What Can I Do to Prevent Winter Storm Damage to My Home in Eugene?
12/12/2023 (Permalink)
Our local North Eugene and Northwest Lane County team restores storm damage often during winter storms. Minimizing winter storm damage to your home in Eugene is essential to protect your property and ensure your family's safety during harsh weather conditions. Eugene experiences cold, wet winters with occasional snow and ice storms, so being prepared is crucial. Here are some steps you can take to minimize winter storm damage:
Inspect Your Roof: Ensure your roof is in good condition by checking for loose or damaged shingles. Repair any issues promptly to prevent leaks during heavy rain or snow.
Clean Gutters: Clear your gutters and downspouts of leaves and debris. This prevents ice dams from forming and allows melting snow and rain to flow away from your home.
Insulate and Seal: Proper insulation and sealing gaps around doors and windows help keep your home warm and reduce heating costs. It also prevents drafts and cold air from entering.
Pipe Insulation: Insulate exposed water pipes in unheated areas like basements and crawl spaces to prevent freezing and potential pipe bursts.
Heating System Maintenance: Have your heating system serviced before winter to ensure it functions efficiently. Replace filters regularly and consider installing a backup heating source in case of power outages.
Emergency Generator: Invest in a generator to keep essential appliances running during power outages.
Trim Trees: Trim overhanging branches that could break and fall onto your home during a storm. Ice-laden branches can cause significant damage.
Secure Outdoor Items: Store or secure outdoor furniture, grills, and other items that can become projectiles in strong winds.
Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, blankets, and a first-aid kit.
Snow Removal Equipment: Have snow shovels, rock salt, and snow blowers on hand for clearing driveways and walkways.
Monitor Weather Forecasts: Stay informed about impending storms by monitoring weather forecasts and advisories. Plan accordingly and avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather.
Prevent Frozen Pipes: On extremely cold nights, allow faucets to drip slightly to prevent pipe freezing. Keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air to reach pipes.
Roof Snow Removal: After heavy snowfall, consider safely removing snow from your roof to prevent excessive weight and potential collapse.
Insurance Review: Review your homeowner's insurance policy to ensure it covers winter storm damage adequately.
Community Resources: Stay connected with your local community and neighbors, as they can be valuable resources during emergencies.
By taking these proactive steps, you can minimize the risk of winter storm damage to your home and ensure the safety and comfort of your family during the colder months.
Call Us Today!
When your home or commercial business in Eugene has storm damage, our North Eugene and Northwest Lane County teams are Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your property damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 541-799-0090.
SERVPRO® franchise is independently owned and operated.