House in the Hamptons covered in snow

Winterizing Your Home

Ice, snow and wind can have devastating consequences to your home. Fortunately, there are precautions you can take to avoid the expense and inconvenience of winter damage. Here’s how you can get your home prepared for winter.

  1. Check for leaks proactively. Minor leaks can cause significant damage if left over time. In fact, a leaky tap can displace up to 57 gallons of water in just one week. Check underneath sinks and around dishwashers and washing machines.
  2. Check up on sump pump(s). Sump pumps play a critical role in ensuring basements don’t flood after prolonged rain. If you have one, make sure it’s properly maintained and serviced.
  3. Keep your gutters clear of debris. Leaves are the most common cause of blocked gutters, but they’re not the only culprits. Weeds and moss can also block gutters and contribute significantly to dampness in your house. If you find water running down the side of your house, or if gutters seem to be sagging, they might be blocked.
  4. Inspect your roof, inside and out. Check inside the attic for signs of water leakage through the roof; look for damp spots on joists or tea-colored stains. Outside, inspect the roof for signs of visible damage, and make sure flashing surrounding any chimneys is intact.
  5. Prevent pipes from freezing. Use a smart thermostat to maintain above-freezing temperature in pipes, even (especially) when you’re not home. Warm water needs to circulate through pipes to prevent freezing damage. 
  6. Exposed pipes should be properly insulated. Snap-on pipe insulation, which is specifically designed to protect pipe systems, ensures they operate at regulated temperatures. 
  7. Look for areas of moisture or mold. Flaking paint or wallpaper can be a sign of dampness, as can black, speckled marks on walls and sills. And if your walls feel cold to the touch, or you notice a musty smell, consider adding additional insulation. 

We’re all weathering a lot this winter, but know that we’re here for you when you need us. For more information on preparing for winter or to file a claim for winter weather-related damage, contact us.