How to Prevent Water Damage in the Winter - Outside Tips

1/16/2019 (Permalink)

Protecting your home from water damage is always a good idea.  Damage can happen inside and outside and that is why it is always a good idea to keep an eye on your home from the inside but also the outside.  Here are some tips to help prevent water damage from the outside of your home.

Seal off your building: Checking for cracks in your walls, windows, floors, and foundations can go a long way when trying to prevent water damage.  If you see some cracks you should seal them with a waterproofing sealant.

Snow removal is the name of the game: One thing you want to remember in the winter is to keep the snow away from your foundation, that way when spring comes or just some warm winter days when the snow is melting it isn’t leaking into your basement!  Also remember to get that excess snow off your roof to keep it from dripping near your foundation when it starts melting. Hiring a professional service for the task of snow removal from you roof is not always a bad idea, as it can be dangerous. Plus, while they’re up there, they can clear your eaves troughs, too!

Don’t forget about your roof: Ice dams on the roof can cause damage as well. It’s a good idea to install an ice and water shield membrane under the roof covering at least six feet from the eaves troughs line.

Clear catch basins: To facilitate drainage, snow, ice, and debris should be removed from catch basins, as it can build up during the winter.

Don’t forget about your downspouts: Clearing out downspouts, just like you did your catch basins, is a good idea. Downspouts should extend at least 6 feet from your foundation.